Once you’ve experienced the vibrant energy and historic landmarks that make up the things to do in Pretoria, from the majestic Union Buildings to the tranquil Pretoria National Botanical Garden, day trips from Pretoria offer a unique opportunity to explore the rich tapestry of South Africa’s landscapes and cultures. These excursions take you beyond the city’s borders, introducing you to the wildlife, historical sites, and natural beauty surrounding the capital.
The exploration extends into the vast array of things to do in South Africa, where you can encounter everything from the Big Five in their natural habitat to the breathtaking vistas of the Panorama Route. Each journey from Pretoria is a gateway to understanding the diverse ecosystems and historical depth that South Africa offers.
Selecting where to stay in Pretoria is essential for adventurers eager to experience both the urban allure and the natural wonders nearby. The right accommodation not only provides a comfortable retreat after a day of exploration but also positions you perfectly to venture into the heart of South Africa’s unparalleled landscapes and wildlife reserves.
Discover Best Day Trips from Pretoria, South Africa
1. Cullinan, South Africa
Cullinan, a small town east of Pretoria, is famous for the Cullinan Diamond Mine where the world’s largest diamond was found. Visitors can take guided tours of the mine and explore the charming village with its Edwardian period architecture.
Distance: Approximately 30 km
Travel Time: About 45 minutes by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Cullinan Diamond Mine, Edwardian architecture, quaint village shops
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Cullinan Diamond Mine Tour: Approximately $10
- Underground Mine Tour: Approximately $30
Budget: Approximately $15-$50 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Cullinan Nature Reserve, St. George’s Anglican Church, McHardy House Museum
Travel Tip: Don’t miss the opportunity to go on an underground mine tour for a unique experience.
2. Sun City and Pilanesberg National Park, South Africa
Sun City, a luxury resort with casinos, waterparks, and golf courses, is adjacent to the Pilanesberg National Park, a Big Five game reserve. Pilanesberg offers excellent safari experiences with a wide variety of wildlife.
Distance: Approximately 160 km
Travel Time: About 2 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Sun City Resort, Pilanesberg National Park
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Pilanesberg National Park Entrance: Approximately $4.50 per person
- Sun City Entrance: Varies depending on activities
Budget: Approximately $25-$60 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Valley of Waves, Mankwe Dam, Hot Air Balloon Safari
Travel Tip: Combine a morning game drive in Pilanesberg with an afternoon relaxing at Sun City’s Valley of Waves.
3. Magaliesburg, South Africa
Magaliesburg, set in the Magaliesberg mountain range, is ideal for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful retreat. The area offers hiking, bird watching, and visits to craft breweries and art galleries.
Distance: Approximately 100 km
Travel Time: About 1.5 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Hiking trails, craft breweries, art galleries
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Magaliesberg Canopy Tour: Approximately $38
- Hiking Permits: Varies by trail
Budget: Approximately $30-$60 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Magaliesberg Mountain Range, Hartbeespoort Dam, Rustenburg Nature Reserve
Travel Tip: Consider taking a hot air balloon ride at sunrise for breathtaking views of the Magaliesberg mountains.
4. Cradle of Humankind, South Africa
The Cradle of Humankind, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an important archaeological area home to around 40% of the world’s human ancestor fossils. The Maropeng Visitor Centre and the Sterkfontein Caves are key attractions.
Distance: Approximately 70 km
Travel Time: About 1.5 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Maropeng Visitor Centre, Sterkfontein Caves
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Maropeng Visitor Centre: Approximately $6.50
- Sterkfontein Caves: Approximately $9
Budget: Approximately $20-$35 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Maropeng Tumulus Building, Magaliesberg Biosphere, Kromdraai Conservancy
Travel Tip: Wear comfortable walking shoes for the Sterkfontein Caves and bring a light jacket as it can be cooler underground.
5. Hartbeespoort Dam, South Africa
Hartbeespoort Dam, known locally as Harties, is popular for its leisure activities like boat cruises, hot air ballooning, and a cable car offering panoramic views. The area also has craft markets and animal sanctuaries.
Distance: Approximately 50 km
Travel Time: About 1 hour by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Boat cruises, hot air ballooning, cable car rides
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Hartbeespoort Aerial Cableway: Approximately $13
- Boat Cruise: Approximately $16
Budget: Approximately $20-$50 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Hartbeespoort Dam Wall, Magaliesberg Mountain Range, Elephant Sanctuary
Travel Tip: Visit the Harties Market for local crafts and food, held every Saturday.
6. Dinokeng Game Reserve, South Africa
Dinokeng Game Reserve is the only Big Five game reserve in Gauteng and offers a true safari experience with guided game drives. The reserve also provides opportunities for bird watching and fishing.
Distance: Approximately 60 km
Travel Time: About 1 hour by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Big Five game drives, bird watching, fishing
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Dinokeng Self-Drive Permit: Approximately $14 per vehicle
- Guided Game Drive: Approximately $22
Budget: Approximately $20-$50 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Rietvlei Nature Reserve, De Rust Country Lodge, Dinokeng Lakeside Picnic Spots
Travel Tip: Book a guided game drive for a better chance of spotting the Big Five and learning about the local ecosystem.
7. Johannesburg, South Africa
Johannesburg, South Africa’s largest city, offers a variety of cultural and historical experiences. Visit the Apartheid Museum, Constitution Hill, and the vibrant neighborhood of Maboneng.
Distance: Approximately 55 km
Travel Time: About 1 hour by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Apartheid Museum, Constitution Hill, Maboneng Precinct
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Apartheid Museum: Approximately $5.50
- Constitution Hill: Approximately $5
Budget: Approximately $15-$35 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: The Wilds Nature Reserve, Zoo Lake, Johannesburg Botanical Garden
Travel Tip: Spend some time in the Maboneng Precinct for its art galleries, restaurants, and lively street atmosphere.
8. Soweto, South Africa
Soweto, an urban settlement in Johannesburg, is rich in South African history and culture. Key sites include the former home of Nelson Mandela and the Hector Pieterson Memorial and Museum.
Distance: Approximately 70 km
Travel Time: About 1.5 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Nelson Mandela’s House, Hector Pieterson Memorial and Museum, Orlando Towers
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Nelson Mandela’s House: Approximately $3.50
- Hector Pieterson Museum: Approximately $3
Budget: Approximately $15-$35 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Vilakazi Street, Kliptown, Soweto Towers
Travel Tip: Take a guided tour to fully understand the historical and cultural significance of the area.
Plan Your Perfect Day Trip with Our Trusted Travel Partners
🚗 Find the Best Car Rental Deals with Rentalcars.com and GetRentacar.com
🏨 Discover the Best Accommodations with Booking.com
🌟 Discover Amazing Experiences with GetYourGuide.com and Tiqets.com
📶 Stay Connected with Airalo.com
Sources:
https://www.getyourguide.com/pretoria-l1586?activity_type=dayTrip
This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that we have recommended, at no extra cost to you.
