 
About Pretoria
Pretoria - rainbow microcosm of cultures and window on Africa offers you a glittering
treasure trove of breathtaking adventures, unique experiences and unforgettable
memories. Built on the foundations of a colourful yet controversial past and
evolving into a dynamic future, the Jacaranda City (affectionately named after its
famous trees), could easily be described as a country in one city.
Nestled among a series of picturesque ridges, lush fertile valleys and natural
fountains, Pretoria's cosmopolitan, harmonious and vibrant atmosphere comes from a
unique blend of traditions, cultures, languages and architecture.
It is a capital city, a cultural hub, a centre of research and learning, but much
more than this it is a friendly city with open streets, open spaces and open-hearted
people. A people's city for both young and old.
Experience Pretoria in October, when thousands of Jacaranda trees (Jacaranda
mimosifolia, fam. Rignonia) burst into bloom. As far as the eye can see the city is
enveloped in a magical mauve haze, heralding the arrival of spring and the promise of
summer just around the corner. Walk in the footsteps of colourful heroes, follow the
tracks of exotic game, dance and gamble the night away or sip cocktails in
breathtaking scenery. Whatever your fancy, Pretoria has it all!
Quick Fact Reference
- Pretoria was founded in 1855
- The city is named after Andries Pretorius, a Voortrekker leader
- Capital of the Zuid-Afrikaansche Republiek from 1860-1910
- Administrative capital of the Union of South Africa from 1910-1961
- Administrative capital of the Republic of south Africa from 1961
- Currently, the administrative capital of South Africa and seat of the first
democratically elected Government of National Unity
- Population in excess of 1.6 million
- The Greater Pretoria Metropolitan Area exceeds 900 square kilometres
- Situation: 1,370 metres above sea level
- Average summer temperatures 15°C - 28°C
- Average winter temperatures 6°C - 23°C
- A summer rainfall region 700mm per annum
- Distances:
Johannesburg International Airport: 47km
Harare 1052km
Johannesburg 45km
Kruger National Park 360km
Cape Town 1500km
Durban 660km
Windhoek 1898km
Gaberone 307km
- English, Afrikaans and Sotho are the most widely spoken languages
|
