There is so much to see and do in Pretoria. Here are 5 budget-friendly family outings that will be great for all ages:
Pretoria Art Museum
Address: Francis Baard St & Wessels St, Arcadia, Pretoria, 0007
Price: R25 for adults, R11 for pensioners and students and R5 for school children.
Contact: 012 358 6750
Pretoria Art Museum is filled with all sorts of fun. Picture: Pretoria Art Museum.
The Pretoria Art Museum is in the suburb of Arcadia. The museum building dates back to 1962. The museum is great for the family, and also a fun way to keep the children’s minds active over the festive season. Make sure you see the two new exhibitions from Margaret Nel and Kgotso Hladi. There is also an exhibit for children called the Children Sell Art Project. It will be closed from December 22- January 2.
Climbing Barn
Address: 210 Korhaan Rd, Mooiplaats, Pretoria, 0036
Price: R100 for adult day passes and R80 for scholar day passes.
Contact: 082 335 3220
Why not try rock climbing? Picture: Facebook.
The Climbing Barn provides fun and challenging activities for people of all ages. Families can spend hours enjoying its rock climbing activities. Located inside a gym, Climbing Barn is action packed and a great way to kick start the holidays.
Pretoria National Botanical Gardens
Address: 2 Cussonia Ave, Brummeria, Pretoria, 0186
Price: R33 for adults, R15 for children and children under the age of 6 is free.
Contact: 012 843 5071
Pretoria National Botanical Gardens makes for a stunning family outing. Picture: Portfolio Collection.
Probably one of the best places to enjoy family bonding time, the Pretoria National Botanical Gardens is not only cost-effective, but has some of the most stunning features in Pretoria. Opened Monday to Sunday, from 8am to 6pm, the gardens features two restaurants, picnic sites and birding spots. Be on the lookout for impala. Bring along some board games for children to play.
Rietvlei Nature Reserve
Address: 14 Game Reserve Ave, Rietvallei 377-Jr, Pretoria, 0181
Prices: Game drive: R200pp, hikes: R85pp for day.
Contact: 012 358 1812
The views at Rietvlei Nature Reserve. Picture: Rietvlei Nature Reserve.
Rietvlei Nature Reserve is just 38 km from the OR Tambo International Airport. The 4 000 hectares property boasts lion, buffalo, cheetah, rhino, zebra and buck. Accommodation is offered for guests who want to spend the night. There are morning and night game drives. For those who like adventure, try their day or overnight hiking trips. Picnic spots are also available.
Union Buildings
Address: Government Ave, Elandspoort 357-Jr, Pretoria, 0002
Price: Free
Contact: 012 300 5200
The Union Buildings in Pretoria is a great way for everyone to learn about South African history. Picture: Wikipedia.
Pretoria’s Union Buildings, the official seat of the national government, house the offices of the South African president and are located atop the Meintjieskop in the Arcadia suburb of Tshwane. The building is surrounded by pretty terraced gardens that offer panoramic views over the city. The Union Buildings have been the backdrop for some of the country’s most pivotal moments such as the 20 000 strong march on August 9, 1956, led by South African women of all races protesting against the apartheid pass laws. It will make a beautiful historical visit.