Are you looking for the top picnic spots in Pretoria? Why not head to one of the city’s many beautiful parks and picnic spots? These spots let you enjoy fresh air, relax with friends and family, and soak up the beautiful scenery. You’ll find various parks in Pretoria, each with its unique charm. Some have spacious open fields ideal for games and sports. Others feature winding paths, lush gardens, and tranquil water features. Many of these parks also offer braai areas, picnic tables, and even playgrounds for the kids. So whether a romantic picnic for two or a family outing is on your mind, you’re sure to find the right spot. So without further delay, let’s take you through this list of the best picnic spots in Pretoria! But before we go on, you should also check out the best hikes in Namibia.
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The Top Picnic Spots in Pretoria
1. Paws in The East – Off Leash Dog Park
If you love dogs and live in Pretoria, don’t miss Paws in The East – Off Leash Dog Park. For just R40 per person, you and your furry friend can enjoy a day out in the sun. Located in the East of Pretoria, this park has everything you need for a fun and safe off-leash experience. Your dog can dip in the pool or pond to cool off while you relax and watch them play. The on-site grooming facilities mean you can keep your dog looking its best. And when you’re hungry, there’s a restaurant with a menu for humans and dogs! Even two-legged kids can join in on the fun with a jungle gym to play on. Best of all, kids under 12 and dogs enter for free, so there’s no reason not to try it!
Hours: Saturday to Sunday and public holidays from 07h00 to 18h00. The kitchen is open on these days from 08h00 to 15h00.
Address: 30A Bronberg Street, Bashewa AH, Pretoria
Contact: +27 072 171 1320
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2. Marais Dam
Are you looking for breathtaking picnic spots in Pretoria? Enjoy breathtaking views and braai facilities in the heart of nature. This is the perfect place for a peaceful day out. Look forward to stunning views and braai facilities in the heart of nature. While pets aren’t allowed, it’s still worth the visit. Make sure to come prepared with your wood for braaing and drinks, as no shops are nearby. And with no loud noises to disturb the serenity, you’ll feel kilometres away from the city. So take advantage of this hidden gem!
Address: Rietvallei 377-Jr, Pretoria
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3. Hennops Hiking Trail & Mtb Trail
Do you love hiking and mountain biking in parks in Pretoria? The Hennops Hiking and Mountain Bike Trail is the ideal location. The trails are open daily, with varying start times depending on the day of the week. The hiking trails offer mountainous terrain, historical points, and game sightings. Plus, you can ride on a manual cable car and suspension bridges! While the organisers allow pets, they do not allow prams, music, or alcohol. If you’re looking for a picnic spot, the park is open during specific hours and may close when the river floods. Is mountain biking your passion? You’ll love the 40-km purpose-built trail with berms, bridges, and stunning views. Ensure your bike has at least 24″ wheels, as kids’ bikes aren’t allowed. Finally, 4×4 enthusiasts can enjoy a dedicated off-road trail that will. Take advantage of the fun at Hennops Hiking Trail & MTB Trail!
Hours: During weekdays, the trails are open from 07h00 to 13h00. During weekends, they are open from 06h00 to 13h00.
Price: The cost of the various activities varies.
Address: Road R511 between Diepsloot and Hartbeespoort dam, Pretoria
Contact: +27 82 825 9205
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4. Wolwespruit Bike & Trail Park
Wolwespruit Bike & Trail Park is fantastic for outdoor enthusiasts! Look forward to hand-crafted single-track trails designed for bikers, runners, and hikers. The park provides an exhilarating adventure for people of all skill levels. Exciting drops, jumps, river crossings, and challenging uphill terrain exist. All these activities are excellent for building your fitness and honing your skills. Also, find one of the largest pump tracks, a skills clinic area, and a jump line that will get your heart racing. The park is fully fenced and safe for everyone, including dogs. Unfortunately, you’ll find no picnic spots in Pretoria in Wolwespruit. But you’ll still have a great time experiencing the adrenaline rush of this fantastic park. Remember, no helmet, no ride!
Hours: The park is open Monday and Wednesday to Friday from 05h30 to 18h30. On Tuesday, the trails are open from 05h30 to 21h00 and night riding from 18h00. During the weekend, the park is open from 06h00 to 18h00.
Price: MTB day passes are R60 per person. Trail running day passes are R40 per adult and children under 12.
Address: 501 Jochemus Street, Cul de sac, Erasmuskloof, Pretoria
Contact: +27 12 054 5448
5. Voortrekker Monument
The Voortrekker Monument celebrates the history and culture of the Afrikaner people. This monument symbolises hope and is a great place to learn about the Great Trek and the Anglo-Boer War. The monument is not only a place for history but also a place to relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. You can picnic, walk, drink coffee, and participate in adventure activities. The Voortrekker Monument is great for families, friends, and groups to visit. It is a beautiful opportunity to experience the Afrikaner culture and heritage. The Voortrekker Monument is a must-visit for anyone who loves parks in Pretoria!
Hours: Daily from 08h00 to 18h00
Price: Tickets and package costs vary.
Address: Eeufees Road, Groenkloof 358-Jr, Pretoria
Contact: +27 69 265 2408
6. Moreleta Kloof Nature Reserve
Moreleta Kloof Nature Reserve is a paradise for lovers of nature and adventure. Discover a sprawling trail system that winds through lush forests and calm streams. Visitors can expect to see plenty of wild game and birdlife along the way. Best of all, entry to the reserve is entirely free. So, take a leisurely stroll, picnic with friends, or explore the great outdoors. Moreleta Kloof Nature Reserve has something for everyone. So, pack a picnic basket and head to one of the best picnic spots in Pretoria!
Hours: Monday to Thursday from 06h00 to 17h00 (the last entry is at 17h00). Friday to Sunday from 06h00 to 16h00 (the last entry is at 16h00).
Address: Helios Street, Moreletapark, Pretoria
Contact: info@moreletakloof.co.za
7. Jan Cilliers Park
Jan Cilliers Park is a stunning landscaped park with plenty of things to do and free entry. It’s ideal for a jog, stunning city views, and lakeside picnics under the tall indigenous trees. The leafy greenery, wildlife, and peaceful ambience make this one of the top parks in Pretoria. So are you looking to unwind and recharge in nature or take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city? Jan Cilliers Park is the perfect place to do it all!
Hours: The park is open 24 hours
Address: Corner of Wenning Street and Broderick Street, Groenkloof, Pretoria
Contact: +27 12 358 0524
8. Waterkloof Dog Park
Waterkloof Dog Park is a must-visit destination for any dog lover in Pretoria. It’s a vast open space where dogs can run off-leash and play to their hearts’ content while being safe and free! This park is fantastic for your fur buddy to meet and socialise with other dogs. You can bring your family along. This is also one of the best picnic spots in Pretoria! Plenty of shade lets you relax while your dog runs around, plays in the ponds, and explores the grounds. Public donations are how the park maintains its fantastic condition and clean ponds. So, visit Waterkloof Ridge Dog Park and make unforgettable memories with your furry friend!
Hours: Daily from 06h00 to 18h00.
Address: Corner of Eridanus Street and Dorado Street, Waterkloof Ridge, Pretoria
Contact: +27 82 366 4411
9. Union Buildings Gardens
The Union Buildings are not just a government building but also a beautiful park you can enjoy. The park offers stunning views of the city. Terraced gardens with indigenous plants surround the Union buildings. You can stroll through the park and admire the architecture of the buildings. The park also features a 9,000-seat amphitheatre and many statues and monuments. The Union Buildings and its gardens together make one of the most impressive picnic spots in Pretoria. So, enjoy a lovely day out with friends and family while immersing yourself in the beauty of this venue. And the best part? It’s free to enter!
Hours: Monday to Friday from 07h00 to 18h00
Address: Meintjieskop, off Government Avenue, Arcadia, Pretoria
Contact: +27 12 300 5200
10. Hennops Offroad Trail
Get your 4×4 ready for a thrilling adventure at Hennops Off-road Trail. They are located outside of Hartbeespoort, 30 kilometres from Sandton and Pretoria. This privately owned trail opened to the public in 1993, making it one of the first in South Africa. The trail offers various obstacles. There’s easy access to rugged, rocky terrain in a picturesque environment. It’s great for everyone, from beginners to seasoned 4×4 enthusiasts. Once you’re done, bring the family and pack a picnic basket for a fun-filled day by the Hennops River. It’s a great way to enjoy the peace and serenity of a lovely farm while having a thrilling off-road experience. Take advantage of one of the best outdoor experiences in the picnic spots in Pretoria.
Hours: Daily from 08h30 to 13h00 (the gate closes at 17h00)
Price: R250 per vehicle, which includes two people. Additional people pay R100 per adult and R50 per child.
Address: Road R511 between Diepsloot and Hartbeespoort dam, Pretoria
Contact: +27 82 825 9205
11. Acrobranch Pretoria North
Are you looking for a thrilling outdoor experience in one of the beautiful parks in Pretoria? Look no further than Acrobranch Pretoria North! They offer treetop adventure courses designed for both kids and adults. Acrobranch caters to all fitness levels, from beginners to advanced. Their trained instructors will provide safety tips before you go on your adventure. Explore adrenaline-pumping aerial obstacles and zip lines while being secured in a harness. There are also cargo nets, balance beams, zip lines, and Tarzan swings. Plenty of other fun-filled obstacles are waiting for you to conquer. You’ll also create fond memories and get a great workout.
Hours: From September to April, they are open from Wednesday to Sunday from 09h00 to 18h00 (the last slot is at 16h00, and the venue closes at 18h00). From May to August, Acrobranch is open from 09h00 to 17h00 (the last space is at 15h00, and the closing time is 17h00).
Price: Acro-Twigs (3-6 years) – R150 per child. Monkey Moves (7 years to adult) – R190 per person. Green Combo (7 years and older) – R240 per child). Big Zip (7 years to adult) – R90 per person. The following activities are only for those 1.3m and taller. Swinging Tarzan (7 years to adult) – R230 per person. Blue Combo (R7 years and older) – R280 per child. High Flying & 1 Big Zip (9 years to adult) – R280 per person. High Flying & 3 Big Zips (9 years to adult) – R330 per person.
Address: 18 Honingnestkrans Street, Soutpan Road, Pretoria North
Contact: +27 86 999 0369
12. Rietondale Park
Wonderboom Nature Reserve is fantastic for those seeking picnic spots in Pretoria. This public park’s rich history dates back to the 19th century, featuring a fort and a Stone Age site. One of the park’s main attractions is the 1,000-year-old Wonderboom fig tree and its “daughters.” The reserve is ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and birdwatching. It has several trails of varying difficulty. Each offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. So, are you looking for a serene picnic spot in Pretoria? Head to Wonderboom Nature Reserve for an unforgettable experience.
Hours: Daily from 07h00 to 17h00.
Price: Adults pay R37; senior citizens and children between 12 and 18 years pay R23.
Address: 1 Lavender Road, Annlin West, Pretoria
Contact: 012 358 1792
13. Rietvlei Nature Reserve
Are you looking for an exciting park in Pretoria? Look no further than the Rietvlei Nature Reserve! Spanning 4,000 hectares, this vast natural reserve has something for everyone. The Rietvlei Dam is a popular spot for fishing and viewing wild game. The reserve also boasts a yacht clubhouse for water-based activities. So, is a peaceful nature walk or an adrenaline-filled adventure what you want? Rietvlei Nature Reserve is the perfect destination for anyone seeking parks in Pretoria.
Hours: Daily from 05h30 to 19h00
Price: R37 per adult and R37 per senior citizen
Address: 14 Game Reserve Avenue, Rietvallei 377-Jr, Pretoria
Contact: +27 12 358 1812
14. Faerie Glen Nature Reserve
Faerie Glen Nature Reserve is ideal for those searching for picnic spots in Pretoria. This stunning nature reserve features a broad range of native wildlife. Visitors can see some of South Africa’s most fascinating animals up close. There are also many hiking trails. They are perfect for those exploring the outdoors and enjoying breathtaking scenic views. Faerie Glen Nature Reserve is for lazy afternoons with friends and family. So pack your picnic basket and grab a blanket. Then, head to Faerie Glen Nature Reserve for an unforgettable experience!
Hours: 06h00 to 18h00
Price: R18 per adult; and R8 per pensioner and child between 7 and 12. Children under 6 get free entry.
Address: January Masilela Drive, Faerie Glen, Pretoria
Contact: +27 12 358 1510
15. Pretoria National Botanical Gardens
Are you looking for a beautiful park in Pretoria? Then head to the Pretoria National Botanical Gardens! This 76-hectare urban oasis is a true gem, boasting an incredible array of plants and wildlife. Visitors can explore the succulent garden, herb garden, wetland area, and conservatory. Each of these showcases a fascinating aspect of South Africa’s natural beauty. The park is also home to various wildlife, including birds, reptiles, and small mammals. And when you’re ready for a break, be sure to stop by the on-site eatery for a delicious meal or snack.
Look forward to stunning landscapes and diverse flora and fauna. The Pretoria National Botanical Gardens is a must-visit destination.
Hours: Daily from 08h00 to 18h00 (no entry after 17h00)
Price: Adults and senior citizens (with IDs) pay R55. Senior citizens also get free entry on Tuesdays. Children between 6 and 17 pay R20. Children under 6 enter free of charge. Students pay R35 (only after presenting a valid student card).
Address: 2 Cussonia Avenue, Brummeria, Pretoria
Contact: +27 12 843 5071
Now you know about the best picnic spots in Pretoria and the fantastic restaurants in Pretoria East! So where will you go first? Pack your bags and picnic baskets, or head to one of the delightful restaurants in Pretoria East and get ready for unforgettable experiences.
Picture: Instagram / @traveling_maann
