Animal parks in Pretoria
Take a trip to any of these exciting animal parks in Pretoria during the school holidays.
The National Zoological Gardens of South Africa is a proud facility of the National Research Foundation (NRF).
The 85-hectare zoo in Pretoria houses 3 117 specimens of 209 mammal species, 1 358 specimens of 202 bird species, 3 871 specimens of 190 fish species, 388 specimens of four invertebrate species, 309 specimens of 93 reptile species and 44 specimens of seven amphibian species.
The National Zoological Gardens of South Africa is the largest zoo in the country and the only one with national status. More than 600 000 people visit the zoo annually.
The zoo is open seven days a week, 365 days a year. Tickets are sold from 08:30 to 16:30 daily and the zoo closes at 17:30.
Entrance fees:
Adults: R85 per person
Children (2 – 15): R55 per person
For more information: www.nzg.ac.za
Bester Birds and Animal Zoo Park
The Bester Birds and Animal Zoo Park was created in the 1980s by the Bester family in Pretoria.
The park hosts some of the country’s most exquisite animals that you would not normally get the chance to see.
If you visit Bester Birds and Animal Zoo Park, you will get the chance to feed the farm animals, but also perhaps have a fun-filled picnic with friends and family.
Entrance fees: Adults: R50
Children (two to 12): R45
Pensioners: R40
For more information: www.besterbirdsanimals.co.za
Kinderplaas Zoo
This little zoo and petting farm is a complete surprise in the heart of Pretoria situated in Frederika Street near the well-known Voortrekkers (Steve Biko) Road, this is truly a hidden Eden that is a must visit for children and adults alike.
Enjoy a nice lunch and a cold milkshake in the tea garden while the children play in the playground. Do not forget to visit the craft shop. Children’s parties and nursery school visits can also be arranged. Day visitors are always welcome, as the zoo is open Tuesday to Sunday with plenty of parking.
Entrance fees: R10 person
For more information: kinderplaaszoo.yolasite.com
Mystic Monkeys
Mystic Monkeys and Feathers Wild Animal Park hosts one of South Africa’s largest private primate collections featuring 44 species, in addition to a large number of beautiful exotic birds and predators such as white lions, Bengal tigers and cheetah.
It is situated 85km north from Pretoria, close to the Carousel Casino. Mystic Monkeys and Feathers Wildlife Park is home to the first two Angolan black and white colobus and bearded saki’s babies born in captivity in the country as well as chimpanzees and white-handed gibbons, two of the “Big 5? in the “ape” world.
Entrance fees: Adults: R100
Children (two to 12): R50
Pensioners: R80
For more information: www.mysticmonkeys.co.za
The Farm Inn Country Hotel and Wildlife Sanctuary
Guests at The Farm Inn can enjoy the magic of a wildlife sanctuary with 23 indigenous species, including lions, leopards and cheetahs.
Many of these species can be viewed by going on a game drive with one of the hotel’s experienced game rangers.
Entrance fees: Game drives are charged at R105 per adult.
For more information: www.farminn.co.za
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