Jacaranda city, Pretoria or Tshwane is one and the same place. Jacaranda city is a non-official name sometimes used by locals stemming from the many Jacaranda trees that turns the city’s roads and sidewalks into purple carpets during flowering season.

Pretoria is the administrative capital of South Africa. The name has recently been changed to Tshwane but the CBD is still keeping the name Pretoria.

WHAT TO DO IN PRETORIA

The Union Buildings has for many years been a landmark in Pretoria. The Presidential Offices are inside the building and are not open to visits. The wonderful terraced gardens are free of charge and are worth a visit. The building as well as the gardens combined with the blue African sky above is an excellent photo opportunity.

Church Square, so called because the first church in Pretoria was situated here, is laid out imitating Trafalgar square in London. The pigeons just love the statue of former President Paul Kruger that was erected in the square in 1954. Many historical buildings line the outskirts of the square.

For a night of entertainment visit The State Theatre, one of the largest theatre complexes in Southern Africa. With five different theatres to choose from you can see a musical, drama, ballet or contemporary South African performance.

One of the top zoos in the world and the largest in South Africa is the Pretoria zoo. The zoo is open 7 days a week, 365 days a year. The air-conditioned Australia section is home to the very cute and forever eating Koalas. Camping tours where you can overnight in the zoo as well as night tours are available on certain nights.

The Voortrekker Monument was for a long time seen as a negative symbol of Apartheid. Luckily these days people appreciate this massive building on the hill for its architectural value. On 16 December at exactly 12 noon the sun shines directly on a shrine in the Heroes Hall lighting up the words “ Ons vir jou Zuid-Afrika” (We for you South Africa).

These are but a few of the many attractions in this city.

WHERE TO STAY IN PRETORIA

For backpackers Kia-Ora Lodge in the city is the cheapest option. It forms part of the Historic Museum Park and is within a kilometer away from attractions such as Church Square, The State Theatre and the Zoo.

Illyria House is very close to the Loftus Stadium for soccer and rugby lovers and within 5 minutes from the railway station. The décor is classical with Victorian touches. It’s pricey but beautiful.

The Protea Hotel Manor is a three star hotel close to all the city attractions. It has all the luxuries expected from a three star hotel at reasonable rates.

For a more country experience try the Leribisi Lodge outside the city. There are horse riding, bird watching and golf facilities nearby.

WHERE TO EAT IN PRETORIA

The Blue Crane inside the Austin Roberts Bird Sanctuary has one of the nicest tranquil settings in the city. It is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner with an extensive menu catering for each and every taste. For lunch and dinner there is a choice between fine dining and lighter dishes.

For meat lovers The Famous Butchers Grill, conveniently located in the upmarket Waterkloof Ridge Lifestyle Centre, is the perfect dining location.

One of the favourite restaurants of Pretoria residents is Nuvo Cuisine in Faerie Glen. The 120 bottle wine list might be very overwhelming but includes many of South Africa’s finest wines. The menu offers a mix of international cuisine with strong French, Italian and Thai influences.

Café Riche on Church Square is ideal for a quick coffee or croissant while you are exploring the city.

Pretoria is a big city with a country feeling.