Pretoria City Guide - overview

Pretoria is affectionately known as the Jacaranda City due to its profusion of mauve-coloured trees that blossom in spring. It is located 56 miles (90km) from Johannesburg, although this drive can take up to two hours. Pretoria is South Africa's administrative capital and one of the country's more attractive cities, its relatively green and picturesque urban centre forming a stark contrast to its much more chaotic neighbour of Johannesburg. Pretoria was founded in 1955 and named after Andries Pretorius, the boerleader at the Battle of Blood River where the Voortrekkersdefeated the Zulus under King Dingaan.But since 1994, the city's Jacaranda tree-lined streets are better known as the administrative capital of South Africa and as home to the iconic Union Buildings where Nelson Mandela was sworn in as the country's first democratically elected president. Pretoria may not be one of South Africa's most popular tourist destinations, but it makes a fantastic base for a multitude of sightseeing opportunities. Boasting some unique attractions such as the historic Voortrekker Monument, the South African National Zoological Gardens, one of the world's first-class zoos, and the nearby town of Cullinan where the discovery of the world's largest diamond took place, Pretoria offers visitors a unique glimpse into a city brimming with history and simultaneously embracing its cultural changes.

Getting around: Pretoria is a bustling city with limited safe and convenient public transport, to the detriment of its visitors. City transport consists of an unreliable bus network and a series of minibus taxi routes, neither of which operate much after dark. The quickest and cheapest way to get around is on a minibus 'taxi', an informal bus service that goes everywhere but has no schedule or formal stops and can be picked up at taxi ranks or hailed anywhere along its route. However, dangerous driving, overcrowding and high crime rates at taxi ranks have deterred many from using them as a means of transport. If necessary, use them for short hops only and never with baggage. Safer but far more expensive are metered taxis, which need to be booked in advance. The best way to get around is by private car and there is an excellent network of highways and well-maintained roads. There are a number of car rental agencies; most require drivers to be over 23 years old and hold a full driving license. A passport and credit card are also necessary. Drivers should keep their windows up and doors locked at all times, never leave anything visible in a parked car, and never stop for hitchhikers. Be aware that there is a risk of car hijacking so remain alert, especially when leaving or returning to the car, and seek out secure parking. A high-speed rail link, called the 'Gautrain', is being constructed between Pretoria, Johannesburg and OR Tambo International Airport, which should be complete by 2010, just in time for the FIFA World Cup.