Flight Destinations

Flights to Pretoria

Places in South Africa

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Located in the northern part of South Africa, Pretoria is considered the executive and national capital of the country. Though the area had been settled by many different tribes over hundreds of years, the city itself was founded in 1855 and named after one of the Boer leaders of the time. Today it’s a busy and modern city that boasts historical as well as natural sights all around the area.

Flights to Pretoria

Close to the city is the Wonderboom Airport (airport code: PRY) though this is set up for general aviation not passenger flights. This means all international flights to Pretoria have to arrive at the OR Tambo International Airport (code: JNB) near Johannesburg, and about 30 miles (50km) from Pretoria. More than a dozen airlines serve the Johannesburg airport, so you have plenty of choice. Virgin Atlantic has a non-stop flight to Pretoria, though this can be a costly option when compared to one stop airlines. Egyptair stops once in Cairo, and Ethiopian Airlines travels through Addis Ababa. BMI is another choice, and their flight to Pretoria has a transfer in Frankfurt.

Pretoria Tourist Attractions

National Zoological Gardens

The National Zoological Gardens is the main zoo for South Africa, and hence the largest one in the country. It's a world-class zoo that covers 80-hectares with a collection of approximately 9,000 animals from hundreds of species. There is also a large aquarium facility. Across the whole zoo, there are nearly 4 miles of pathways as well as a cable car for some great views of the area. You can bring a picnic or get a snack at the restaurant.

National Cultural History Museum

Locally, many people still call this museum ‘the African Window’ as it provides a window to the culture and history of Pretoria and South Africa as a whole. There are great displays of rock art, traditional costumes, sculptures and more. Historical eras from the Stone Age until the present are represented, and there is a nice gift shop and a restaurant on the premises as well.

Groenkloof Nature Reserve

The small Groenkloof Nature Reserve is just south of Pretoria, which makes it very convenient if you want to get outside without too much additional travel. The scenery is mostly woody brush, and there are several miles of hiking trails. There is also a driving route if you are just passing through. You may see zebra, impala, ostrich, giraffe and wildebeest.

Cradle of Humankind

The Cradle of Humankind is another, larger reserve that is west of Pretoria. The Maropeng Visitor Centre is a large museum facility here where you can see the rare and unique fossils that make this region so archaeologically important. Also within the park are the Sterkfontein Caves, where you can take a guided tour to see the amazing limestone formations.

Pretoria Forts

Built in the late 1800s just before the Second Anglo-Boer War, Pretoria Forts are four separate fort structures, each with its own monuments and available for touring.

When Should You Visit Pretoria?

It is very warm in Pretoria all year-round, with the hottest period being their summer from December until February. During those months it will reach around 29C (84F). A more comfortable time to visit would be in June or July as those months usually only reach 20C (68F) during the day. May and August are also nice, being a couple of degrees warmer.