City of Tshwane

Tshwane, the mega city capital of South Africa, which lies only 50km from OR Tambo International Airport and is connected to the airport by the Gautrain rapid rail link, consists of Pretoria and surrounding areas. Five major highways lead into the City of Tshwane providing vital access from all over the region.

Tshwane is a cultural city with grand architecture, a plethora of museums – both historical and modern – monuments, grand sculptures, bustling markets and vibrant township scenes complemented by up-market fine dining restaurants, street side cafe’s and ultra-modern bustling city shopping centres.

Tshwane is a cosmopolitan city. Tshwane has the most foreign representative bodies in the world after Washington DC. As the seat of government, all South African Government Departments are in Pretoria. The Office of the State President is in the magnificent Union Buildings, – visited by many heads of state from around the world. Pretoria as the capital city is the diplomatic hub of South Africa with over 135 embassies and diplomatic missions such as the United Nations, World Bank and European Union.

Tshwane is an academic, science and research hub. With four universities and no less than seven national science councils this centre of scientific research and learning boasts the highest level of education in the country.

Tshwane is an African city boasting two nature reserves with big game such as rhino, antelope, lion and giraffe close to the city centre and a third, on the city boundaries, boasting the Big 5. Green belts, wetlands and special natural park sanctuaries within the city also cater for birding enthusiasts. Dining options within these reserves abound to satisfy the tastes of the nature lover with a penchant for fine dining.

View more information at Tshwane Tourism and What To Do in Tshwane.

Other city info sites we love

Cool Capital Biennale is a citizen-lead initiative to bring about visual, perception and actual change to Pretoria, by means of a multitude of small interventions. The aim is to introduce the public to a wealth of art, architecture, urban- and graphic design, as well as sculpture creations, while affording them the opportunity to interact with these civic interventions.

I love Pretoria is inspired by all the things that we love in the city. Most people in South Africa are of the opinion that Pretoria is a dull and boring place. If you are one of those people, we would be glad to prove you wrong.

Wikipedia Pretoria – Information on the background and history of the city

Pretoria.co.za – Entertainment and directory website

Gauteng Province

Gauteng has a unique geography, offering a combination of natural beauty and mineral wealth. Situated on South Africa’s Highveld, a high-altitude grassy plateau, the province is home to the picturesque Magaliesberg and Witwatersberg mountain ranges. The province is also the site of coal and diamond extraction operations, but it is best known for its gold deposits. The Witwatersrand (“ridge of white waters”), which runs through Gauteng – meaning “place of gold” in Sesotho – is famous for being the source of 40% of all the gold ever mined from the Earth.

Gauteng is the economic powerhouse of South Africa, accounting for a third of the country’s gross domestic product. Politically, the three metropolitan municipalities – the cities of Johannesburg and Tshwane (Greater Pretoria)and Ekurhuleni (East Rand) – have come together to build a globally competitive city-region.

Gauteng also boasts a rich history. Our unique heritage revolves around the origins and evolution of humankind, mining and politics, especially the legacy of the system of apartheid.

Transport

Getting to Gauteng is simple enough: fly to OR Tambo International Airport – the gateway to Africa – catch a bus or train from anywhere in South Africa or, for the brave at heart, take an overland trip through Africa!

Once here, getting around the province is easy. Gauteng has a well-designed road system and hiring a car from a major rental agency or organising a reliable and safe transfer or lift is straightforward.

Communications

South Africa has a well-developed mobile telecoms infrastructure and four national operators: Vodacom, MTN, Cell C and the newly launched 8ta service. Visitors to the country can rent phones linked to local service providers or utilise roaming facilities, should their home providers offer such a service in the country.

Things to do in Gauteng

There’s never a dull moment in Gauteng, and visitors to the province will not be short of activities to fill their hours. Whether you enjoy exploring heritage spots, absorbing arts and culture, trawling the markets and malls for interesting memorabilia or simply soaking up the sunshine in the great African outdoors, Gauteng’s sure to have something to suit your tastes. Sample traditional cuisine, enjoy local theatre or music or get your sports shoes out for some more vigorous activities.

Safety and security

Despite alarmist travel guides and negative press, tourists should not feel fearful in Gauteng. The provincial authorities have put various initiatives in place to improve security, such as installing surveillance cameras and increasing the visibility of police.

For more information, visit www.gauteng.net

South Africa

South Africa welcomes you with open arms and hearts and the warmest, widest of smiles, excited to invite you to our shores, homes and braais.

Come and experience our hospitality wherever you go and get in touch with our wide variety of fascinating cultures and local traditions. Our people are ready to show you our country’s natural wonders, draw you into the rhythm and soul of Africa, give you close encounters with our regal wildlife and take you on an unforgettable journey through our ancient and recent past.

We guarantee you will have incredible stories to tell…

Top 10 reasons to visit South Africa

Affordable – During these tough times, who doesn’t want an affordable holiday? In SA, you can even afford luxury and have spending money for shopping and other treats!

Natural beauty – South Africa’s scenic wonders are legendary. From Table Mountain to God’s Window, our mountains, forests, coasts and deserts will feast your eye and lift your spirit.

World-class facilities – Whether you opt for Afro-chic or authentic Africa, you’ll find it easy to get around, find a comfortable place to stay, have a great meal, connect.

Adventure – South Africa is the adventure capital of the world. With over 130 adventures and counting, there is something for everyone from mountain walks to shark cage-diving!

Good weather – In sunny South Africa, our great weather invites you to enjoy the outdoors, play golf year-round and take advantage of the nearly 3000km coastline.

Rainbow nation – The Rainbow Nation celebrates all its African and immigrant cultures. Find out how friendly our people are whilst you try your tongue at 11 official languages!

Diverse experiences – Go almost anywhere in SA and experience the ultimate combo of nature, wildlife, culture, adventure, heritage and vibe – you’re spoilt for choice, so pack it in!

Wildlife – Warning! Watching wildlife is addictive. First you start with the Big Five in so many ways, then whales, penguins, meerkats, wild dogs, birds, dung beetles.

Freedom struggle – Discover a nation’s struggle for freedom whilst following the footsteps of Mandela, Hector Pieterson and many other celebrated revolutionaries. It will touch and inspire you.

Responsible tourism – In SA you can travel with care as you explore our protected areas, contribute to social and conservation projects, buy recycle art and stay green.

For more information, visit www.southafrica.net