Overview
Take a trip to Pretoria on your South Africa Vacation
Pretoria, located in the northern part of Gauteng province is the executive and administrative capital, as well as the de facto national capital of South Africa. Pretoria was nicknamed the “Jacaranda City” due to the thousands of Jacaranda trees planted throughout the city which can be enjoyed on South Africa vacation.
Pretoria has a very strong Afrikaner history and is known for its apartheid past. The city was founded by Marthinus Pretorius, a leader of the Voortrekkers in 1885 and became the capital of the South African Republic in 1860. When South Africa left the British Commonwealth to become a republic in 1961, Pretoria remained as the administrative capital.
As apartheid gripped the country, Pretoria was a symbol of political repression and white conservatism. It was in the Palace of Justice in the city centre that the historic Rivonia Trial took place. During the trial, Nelson Mandela and a number of prominent members of the black liberation struggle were charged with treason and were imprisoned.
Despite Pretoria serving as the headquarters of the apartheid state, the Union Buildings (also in the city centre) hosted the inauguration of Nelson Mandela, South Africa’s first democratically elected president, in 1994. This historic event helped lay the groundwork for the Pretoria that exists today.
A laidback city with a historic atmosphere and an appreciation for nature, Pretoria has much to offer tourists during Pretoria tours on a South Africa vacation.
Despite Pretoria serving as the headquarters of the apartheid state, the Union Buildings (also in the city centre) hosted the inauguration of Nelson Mandela, South Africa’s first democratically elected president, in 1994. This historic event helped lay the groundwork for the Pretoria that exists today.
A laidback city with a historic atmosphere and an appreciation for nature, Pretoria has much to offer tourists during Pretoria tours on a South Africa vacation.
At a Glance
Languages
Zulu, Xhosa, Afrikaans, EnglishCurrency
South African Rand (ZAR)What do the experts say?
Skip the more commercial wineries and visit artisanal producers—you’ll find sparkling wines and small-batch reds that are absolutely world-class
Djembe drumming at GOLD in Cape Town is an immersive African experience through their 14-dish food safari and unique live entertainment
The game viewing in Kruger and Eastern Cape always draws me back—it’s truly superb
South Africans are famously warm—when you’re new in town, you're often invited to a braai, our way of welcoming people through food
South Africa is a wonderful starting point for Africa. It's got some of the top cities in the world, stunning food and wine, and exceptional value for money
Jacaranda trees lining the street in Pretoria a...
Pretoria at sunset
Palace of justice is a stop in which you can ta...
Travel Stories
Get Inspired About Your Trip to South Africa
Unlock more with your Newsletter membership
Discover Goway Travel Protection Plans that offer a peace of mind by helping protect your travel investment, belongings, and most importantly you!Exclusive Savings
Insider Contests
Trending Guides
