Activities / Gauteng

Family Time in Pretoria

Updated Sunday, 20 October 2024

One of South Africaโ€™s three capital cities, Pretoria is steeped in history and heritage. It is only about 55 kilometres from the energetic core of Johannesburg, making it a central destination that combines convenience with a deep sense of heritage and culture. It is a popular holiday hotspot as well as a very busy corporate destination.

Families that visit Pretoria are guaranteed of having plenty to see and do.

Those with children are invited to enjoy some of the following recommended attractions

Attractions in Pretoria

Take a Train

The Centurion Society of Model Engineers (CSME) has mini locomotives that are always a huge hit for little ones. These powerful trains go over hills and lakes, through tunnels and along the gorgeous Gauteng landscape. There are perfect picnic spots here too, so that families can relax and enjoy the South African sunshine together.

Crazi Cow – Kiddie Paradise

This is part of the Stimustation in Centurion and is a favourite place for families with little ones. There is a play area for children that promises hours and hours of fun and entertainment. The tea garden is a great retreat for parents who want to relax in the knowledge that their children are well occupied. This is also an ideal spot for kidsโ€™ parties, events and celebrations.

Visit the Voortrekker Monument & Heritage Site

This piece of history tells a fascinating story of South African heritage and the people that played a part in it. This monument is especially dedicated to the Afrikanerโ€™s past in South Africa, and is one of the top ten cultural and historical tourist attractions in the country.

Go Karts

Go Karts are so much fun for the entire family, and are a great option for a group or family that comprises of different ages (from 12 years old up). Compu-Kart Raceway is an indoor Go-Kart track in Zambezi Mall, Pretoria. It combines fun and adrenalin.

Pretoria at Night

The National Zoological Gardens of South Africa

This famous zoo is an absolute must for families visiting Pretoria, Gauteng. It is home to about 10ย 000 animals, of hundreds of different species. These include birds, mammals, fish, invertebrates, reptiles and amphibians. There are about six kilometres of walkways through the zoo, which is also home to the third-largest collection of exotic trees in the world.

Tenpin Bowling

The Kolonnade is a mall in Pretoria that offers plenty of entertainment for young and old. The tenpin bowling alley is always fun, no matter what time of day, week or year. There are great specials all through the week, including those on food and beverages and kiddiesโ€™ meals.

Horse Riding

Cape Riding Horse has a number of horse riding experiences on offer. This is the perfect way to experience a destination โ€“ it is a safe, comfortable pace that takes you further without using your precious tourist energy! The horses are at the Voortrekker Monument Nature Reserve in Pretoria and can offer tame rides for the little ones or the inexperienced, as well as adrenalin-pumping experiences for those that are more comfortable on a horse.

Book your Pretoria Family Friendly Accommodation here, or see all Things to Do in Pretoria.

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