Pretoria Tour

The Voortrekker Monument is a place of pride for Afrikaners, providing insight into an important period of South African history. No trip to Pretoria is complete without visiting this iconic landmark. Even if you’re not familiar with its history, you’ll surely appreciate its architectural and cultural significance.

Paul Kruger House Museum

One of the top attractions in Pretoria tour is the Paul Kruger House Museum, the former home of South Africa’s first president, Paul Kruger. This red brick Victorian-style house gives visitors insight into what life was like in Pretoria during the late 19th century.

When you first approach the house, you’ll notice its historic architecture, with decorative facades and a wraparound verandah. As you step inside, many of the original furnishings, decorations and personal belongings of the Kruger family have been preserved, allowing you to experience a glimpse into their daily lives. In the parlour, you’ll find furniture popular during that era, like velvet settees and carved wooden chairs. The dining room contains a large table set as if the family were about to enjoy a meal together.

Several bedrooms display clothing, Bibles, and other artifacts that provide context about Paul Kruger, affectionately known as “Oom Paul” (Uncle Paul) by the South African people. His study has been left largely untouched, with a writing desk and cabinet still housing documents and letters. The house museum is a monument to Kruger’s legacy in shaping South Africa’s history as an independent republic.

The museum grounds also include other historic buildings, like a coach house, as well as a souvenir shop and tea garden. A stroll through the manicured gardens will transport you back in time. The two majestic lion statues at the entrance were gifted to Paul Kruger in 1892 by the Italian government.

A visit to the Paul Kruger House Museum offers an illuminating glimpse into South Africa’s earliest days of independence and the life of its first leader. By preserving his former home so meticulously, this museum has created a time capsule of an influential era in Pretoria’s history. No trip to Pretoria is complete without discovering the stories held within these red brick walls.

Church Square

Church Square is one of Pretoria’s most notable landmarks. In the centre of the square stands the Old Dutch Reformed Church, built in 1855. Surrounding the church are several historical buildings like the Palace of Justice and the General Post Office. The square has always been an important focal point for the city.

Today, Church Square is a popular spot for people watching, relaxing, and enjoying a meal at one of the restaurants with outdoor patios. When the weather is nice, the square fills with locals and visitors alike. Grab a coffee or ice cream and find a bench to sit and soak in the atmosphere. The diverse crowds, classic architecture, and lively energy encapsulate the cultural heart of Pretoria.

For a glimpse into the city’s history, visit the Paul Kruger House Museum, the former home of South Africa’s first president. The house has been preserved as it was in the late 1800s, providing insight into what life was like during that era. Guided tours are offered Wednesday through Sunday. Another option is the Pretoria Art Museum, which houses artworks from the 17th century to present day, including European, South African, and African art.

Whether you come to explore the museums, dine al fresco, or simply sit and people watch, Church Square should be at the top of your list of things to experience in Pretoria. The square represents the soul of the city and brings together its storied past and vibrant present. Spend some time wandering the streets, admiring the architecture, and soaking in the atmosphere. Pretoria’s charm and character are on full display in this historic heart of the city.

Union Buildings

Visit the Union Buildings, the seat of South Africa’s government and a national historic site located in Pretoria. This striking building was designed by Sir Herbert Baker in 1910 to symbolise the union of South Africa. Situated on the northern slope of Meintjieskop, it offers panoramic views of the city.

The buildings themselves are an imposing example of sandstone architecture. The two wings are joined by a semi-circular colonnade with a grand set of steps leading up to the main entrance. In the centre, a large statue of a lion guards Nelson Mandela’s former office. You can tour the buildings and walk the beautiful, terraced gardens, which are open daily for self- guided visits.

No trip to Pretoria is complete without seeing the Union Buildings. It is a place of political significance where you can reflect on South Africa’s complex history and its path to democracy. The buildings stand as an icon of the nation’s ideals of freedom, equality, and reconciliation.

Once you’ve admired the architecture, stroll through the sprawling gardens. The rose garden contains over 2,000 roses with some rare specimens. The gardens also feature various statues and monuments, including the Delville Wood Memorial, the South African Police Memorial, and the Sign Language Monument. The lawns provide perfect picnic spots to sit back, enjoy the scenery, and ponder how far South Africa has come.

A highlight for many is watching the changing of the guard ceremony that takes place three times a week in the main courtyard. Members of the presidential guard, dressed in full ceremonial attire, go through a colourful inspection accompanied by a military band. It’s a spectacle that fills visitors with a sense of pride in the nation’s heritage and hopes for its future.

The Union Buildings are free to explore and open every day of the week. This icon of democracy and reconciliation is a place all South Africans should visit to reflect on the past and look with hope toward the future. Plan your visit and come discover the history within its halls.