Pretoria has to be one of the quietest and prettiest places to visit in South Africa. Located in the Gauteng area of South Africa, this serene and lush city offers a world of difference form the bustling cities of Cape Town and Johannesburg. Spending lazy afternoons exploring the jacaranda lines streets is one of the most enjoyable pass times you can do here.
The Transvaal Museum in Pretoria is one of the best bird museums to be found. The natural history of Pretoria make this museum a treat not to be missed. There are a wide selection of stuffed birds on display here and there is even a Dodo skeleton and reptile and mammal galleries. This is s great place to take the bird lover or even to entertain the children for an afternoon. The Transvaal Museum is open from Monday to Saturday 9-5 and on Sundays and public holidays from 11-5. There is a restaurant on the premises for lunch.
The activities on offer in Pretoria are slightly more restricted than that of the busier cities. That being said there is plenty to do here and some enjoyable day trips to be had in and around the area. There are a selection of museums and galleries in Pretoria for those looking for the culture and art of the city, or for those seeking a more flavoursome aspect, there are some very delicious restaurants in the area.
With South Africa?s indigenous and immigrant population, the cuisine to be found here is varied and innovative. The local ingredients used combined with the centuries old recipe?s make eating in Pretoria one of the highlights of your trip. The meat, seafood, fruit and vegetables used in the cuisine melt together to produce a culinary extravagance not to be missed. The most commonly used ingredients are pork, guinea fowl, fish, couscous, lobster and a selection of local fish. Some of the more adventurous menus including Mopani worms or dried caterpillars are to be indulged in by only the most courageous traveller.
South Africa is known world wide as being one of the finest producers of wine, and in Pretoria there is no shortage of fine wine. The red wine to be found in South Africa tends to be full bodied and strong, where as the whites are more crisp, fresh and fruity. Largely due to the climate, the wine of South Africa has a well deserved reputation as one of the greatest to be found in the world. Sit back in the tranquil retreats of the flower laden gardens and enjoy a glass of a local Pinotage or a Chardonnay to complete your taste of Pretoria.
There are many great reasons for you to visit Pretoria including the culture and climate, but perhaps the most attractive prospect is the fact that for a small price you can have reasonable accommodation, entertainment and food. Ideal for the budget traveller or for a family with older children, Pretoria is a delight to visit at any time of year.
