Trip to Pretoria, South Africa

Day 1: Arrival and City Tour

Upon arrival at OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg, you will be transferred to your hotel in Pretoria. Check in and relax for a bit before embarking on a half-day city tour of Pretoria.

Start the tour with the iconic Union Buildings, which are the official seat of the South African government and also the president’s office. You will also see the nearby Voortrekker Monument, which commemorates the Afrikaan’s journey across the South African wilderness in their quest for freedom.

Afterwards, stroll along Church Street, which is dotted with historical buildings and museums that tell South Africa’s history. You will also visit the Pretoria Botanical Gardens, which boasts amazing gardens that stretch over 76 hectares and a gift shop where you can purchase souvenirs.

Day 2: Cradle of Humankind and Sterkfontein Caves Tour

After breakfast at your hotel, you will travel to the Cradle of Humankind, a UNESCO world heritage site that stretches over 47 000 hectares and is situated just 90 minutes from Pretoria.

Here, you will visit Sterkfontein Caves which is a complex of limestone caves that have helped scientists better understand the evolution of humanity. The cave system is home to some of the most important hominid fossil discoveries in the world, earning it the nickname as the “Cradle of Humankind”.

In addition to the cave visit, you will be able to experience the Maropeng Museum, which shows the history of the evolution of man.

Day 3: Relaxing Day

After a busy couple of days exploring the city and surrounding areas, take a slow day and enjoy all the luxurious amenities that your hotel has to offer. Many of Pretoria’s hotels have amazing spas and offer various treatments that will help you relax, including massages, facials, body wraps, and Jacuzzi baths.

If you’re looking for some stimulation, head to Hatfield Plaza, which boasts a variety of shops, restaurants, and a cinema. You can also enjoy some of the local cuisine at one of the many restaurants or cafes.

Day 4: Safari at Dinokeng Game Reserve

After breakfast, you will be transferred to the Dinokeng Game Reserve for a morning safari game drive in a 4x4 vehicle. The reserve is home to Africa’s “big five” animals: lions, elephants, rhinos, buffalo, and leopards.

You can expect to see many other species of animals as well. The game drive usually lasts about three to four hours, and afterwards, you will enjoy a delicious breakfast, while still enjoying the sights and sounds of the bush over breakfast.

Day 5: Cullinan Mine and Diamond Tour

After breakfast at your hotel, you will travel to Cullinan Mine, the world’s largest diamond mine. Here, you will take a guided underground tour of the mines, which include a visit to the diamond cutting and polishing facilities.

Afterwards, you will visit the diamond museum and learn about the discovery of diamonds in South Africa, and the impact that diamond mining has had on the people of South Africa.

Day 6: Pretoria Market and Menlyn Maine Scout

Visit the Pretoria Farmers’ Market, which is held on Saturdays from 09:00 to 14:00. Here you will find a variety of stalls where vendors sell fresh produce, artisanal foods, clothes, and locally made crafts.

Afterwards, visit the Menlyn Maine Scout which has a variety of shops, restaurants, and a cinema perfect for dinner and a movie.

Day 7: Departure

After breakfast at your hotel, you will be transferred to the OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg for your return trip home.