Car rental in Pretoria

Pretoria, also known as Tshwane, is one of South Africa's three capital cities, serving as the executive (administrative) capital.
Located in the northern part of Gauteng Province, it stands as a significant city not only for its governmental role but also for its rich history and cultural significance.

Pretoria founded in 1855 by Marthinus Pretorius, a leader of the Voortrekkers, Pretoria has grown to be a vibrant urban center, characterized by its tree-lined avenues, historical landmarks, and a blend of architectural styles. As a hub of diplomacy, the city houses numerous embassies and international organizations, reflecting its pivotal role in the nation's affairs.

Driving Rules in Pretoria:

◾ Drive on the Left

In South Africa, including Pretoria, motorists drive on the left-hand side of the road, and the steering wheel is on the right-hand side of the vehicle. When overtaking another vehicle, you should always do so on the right-hand side.

◾ Speed Limits

Different roads have different speed limits. Generally, in urban areas like Pretoria, the default speed limit is 60 km/h unless otherwise indicated. On national highways and some main roads outside urban areas, the speed limit can be 100 km/h to 120 km/h. Always look out for speed limit signs and adhere to them.

◾ Wearing Seat Belts

It is compulsory for the driver and all passengers in a vehicle to wear seat belts. Not wearing a seat belt is considered an offense, and violators can be fined. Make sure to secure children in appropriate child restraint seats or booster seats.

◾ Cell Phones While Driving

It's illegal to operate a mobile phone while driving unless you use a hands-free system. If you need to make a call and you don't have a hands-free system, you must pull over safely to the side of the road before using your phone.

Additionally, when driving in Pretoria or anywhere in South Africa, it's wise to be aware of wildlife when outside urban areas, especially during dawn and dusk. Animals can suddenly cross roads, so drivers need to be cautious.

Always make sure to familiarize yourself with local road regulations, be attentive, and drive defensively. It's also a good idea to check with local transport departments or road traffic authorities for any region-specific rules or updates.

Top 5 Attractions in Pretoria:

Pretoria is a vibrant city with a rich history and offers numerous attractions. Here are popular places to consider:

National Zoological Gardens of South Africa
Commonly referred to as the Pretoria Zoo, this is one of the world's largest zoos and an excellent place for a day out with the family. Covering 85 hectares, it offers a vast array of animals from around the world. There's also an aquarium, reptile park, and an aerial cableway that provides a panoramic view of the zoo.

Pretoria National Botanical Garden
This 76-hectare urban oasis is a great place for families to enjoy the outdoors. With its vast variety of plants, it offers walking trails, picnic spots, and bird-watching opportunities. There are often educational programs and workshops for children, making it a fun and educational day out.

Voortrekker Monument and Nature Reserve
Besides being a historical site with the grand Voortrekker Monument to explore, the surrounding reserve offers picnicking, hiking, and horse riding. The monument itself provides a glimpse into South African history, and the views from the top are breathtaking. The grounds also have a Heritage Site and Cultural History Museum.

Irene Dairy Farm
A working dairy farm located in the suburb of Irene, this attraction offers a rustic escape from the city. Families can watch cows being milked, enjoy farm-fresh products in the on-site shop, or have a meal in one of the two restaurants. The lush gardens and play areas are perfect for children to roam around.

Adventure Zone Cullinan
For families with slightly older kids looking for a bit of adventure, this attraction in the nearby town of Cullinan offers activities like ziplining, abseiling, and quad biking. There are also guided tours of the historic Cullinan Diamond Mine, where the world's largest rough gem-quality diamond was found.

These are just a handful of the many attractions Pretoria has to offer for families and kids. The city's combination of cultural, historical, and natural sites ensures there's something for everyone.