Written by: Katrien Pienaar
From family-friendly adventures and romantic escapes to thrilling experiences for friends and animal-lovers, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in Pretoria’s outdoor spaces this season.
Long summer days and good weather make it easy to spend more time outdoors in Pretoria. Whether you’re taking the kids for a relaxed family day out, enjoying a sunny, summer date, being adventurous with friends, or engaging with some animal friends, there’s an outdoor activity for every summer mood.
Your Guide to Pretoria’s Best Outdoor Summer Experiences
While we’ve grouped these activities into sections, many of them can be enjoyed by everyone - families, couples, friends and animal-lovers alike. These sections are just to give you an idea of what’s on offer, and you can mix and match them in whichever way you choose.
Family-Friendly Summer Days in Pretoria
Summer in Pretoria is made for family fun. At the Pretoria National Botanical Garden, you can lay out a picnic blanket while the kids run along the grassy paths, exploring the city’s indigenous flora.
Website: www.sanbi.org/gardens/pretoria/
Go-Go Ranch is another hit with little ones. Here, slides, jumping castles, splash areas and even go-karts give them plenty of space to play in the sun.
Website: www.gogoranch.co.za
Facebook: Go-Go Ranch
For a sunny adventure with the kids, Wolwespruit has hiking trails suitable for all ages. After the hike, the children can enjoy the outdoor play area while everyone grabs a quick bite at the on-site Wijntuin.
Website: wolwespruit.co.za/
Faceook: Wolwespruit Mountain Bike & Trail Park
If you’re after a foodie kind of outing, Busstop 7 Open Air Market is definitely worth a visit. Wander between the stalls, taste some local treats, watch the farm animals and enjoy a properly brewed coffee in the lovely summer sun.
Website: www.busstop7.co.za
Facebook: Busstop 7 Open Air Market
Outdoor Moments for Couples
Pretoria has plenty of spots for couples who want to enjoy the beauty of summer sunshine together. Ludwig’s Rose Farm is perfect for a romantic picnic. Wander among the fragrant roses, share a picnic basket and take in the peaceful scenery for an unforgettable afternoon.
Website: www.ludwigsroses.co.za
Facebook: Ludwig’s Roses
For a mix of fun and light adventure, Rosemary Hill Farm offers Segway tours through their herb fields, horseback riding along scenic trails and wine tasting to round off the date.
Website: www.rosemaryhill.co.za
Facebook: Rosemary Hill Farm
Couples who enjoy being active can head to Hedianga Farm, where walking, hiking and mountain biking allow you to explore the outdoors together.
Website: www.hediangafarm.co.za
Facebook: Hedianga Farm
Or, for something more relaxed, Hazel Food Market is perfect for strolling between stalls and soaking up the outdoor atmosphere whilst indulging in some fine Pretorian cuisine.
Facebook: Hazel Food Market
Adventures with Friends
Pretoria has plenty of outdoor adventures for a day out with friends. Horse riding at The Stables is a great way to explore the trails and enjoy some fresh air together.
Website: www.thestableshorserides.co.za
Facebook: The Stables Venue
In addition, AcroBranch’s zip lines and treetop challenges are great for adrenaline junkies, testing your skills whilst ensuring a lot of fun.
Website: acrobranch.co.za/
Facebook: Acrobranch
If you prefer to keep your feet on the ground, the famous Faerie Glen Koppie offers hiking trails with amazing views.
Website: www.tshwane.gov.za
The city’s Park Runs and padel courts are great for a bit of friendly competition too, or just for getting active while catching up with friends at the same time. There’s a good mix of options, so whether you’re after action or a more relaxed day outdoors, Pretoria has something to make it fun.
Website: www.parkrun.co.za
Facebook: parkrun
Experiences For Animal Lovers
Pretoria has plenty to offer if you love being around animals. Asher’s Farm Sanctuary, Irene Farm and Willow Feather Farm are all perfect for meeting friendly farm animals and enjoying a relaxed day outdoors.
Website: www.ashersfarmsanctuary.org
Facebook: Ashers Farm Sanctuary
Website: www.irenefarm.co.za
Facebook: Irene Farm
Website: www.willowfeather.co.za
Facebook: Willow Feather Farm
If you’re looking for something a little different that the kids would love, Meet the Minis offers families the opportunity to get up close and personal with their miniature horses.
Website: www.meettheminis.co.za
Facebook: Meet the Minis
For wildlife experiences, Rietvlei Nature Reserve is ideal if you’re keen on a self-drive adventure. Spot eland, buffalo, zebra and other animals while enjoying the beautiful scenery at your own pace.
Website: www.tshwane.gov.za
For a very different kind of animal spotting, you can explore Groenkloof Nature Reserve on an e-bike and spot giraffes, ostriches, zebra and several types of antelope along the trails.
Website: www.e-biking.co.za
Pretoria sure makes it easy to enjoy summer. Whether you’re after adventure, a relaxed picnic, or a bit of wildlife spotting, there’s something for everyone. So, go out and make some summer memories in the Jacaranda City – memories that will last a lifetime!
