The best guided tours in Pretoria offer history and nature within easy reach. The Soweto & Apartheid Museum tour stands out for its powerful, well-presented look at South Africa’s past. For wildlife lovers, the Rhino and Lion Park delivers close-up animal encounters with expert guides who know their stuff. The Cradle of Humankind fascinates with its ancient caves and fossil sites – it’s worth every minute.
I especially value the Gold Reef City Heritage tour for its authentic look at mining history, while the private Johannesburg-Soweto tours let you set your own pace with knowledgeable local guides.
Let’s explore these top-rated Pretoria tours in detail:
Good To Know
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Soweto & Apartheid Museum Guided Tour explores apartheid history with visits to significant landmarks and the Apartheid Museum.
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Pilanesberg Game Reserve Guided Day Tour offers close encounters with the Big Five and other iconic wildlife species in an open-air vehicle.
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Guided Gold Reef City Heritage Tour provides an immersive experience, including a journey through a former gold mine-turned-casino.
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Private Johannesburg, Soweto and Apartheid Museum Guided Day Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of historical landmarks with accessibility features.
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Diverse wildlife and nature tours, such as the Rhino and Lion Park Guided Tour and Elephant Walk Guided Half Day Tour, provide unique animal encounters.
Soweto & Apartheid Museum Guided Tour
Why not explore the powerful and poignant Soweto & Apartheid Museum Guided Tour?
Led by registered THETA guides, this tour delves into South Africa’s apartheid history. You’ll visit Mandela House, Tutu’s House, Hector Peterson memorial, Kliptown settlements, Freedom Square, and Regina Mundi church.
Then, the Apartheid Museum’s profound exhibits provide deeper insight into this pivotal era. Priced from $75.20 per person, the tour includes bottled water, transport, fees, lunch, and drinks.
It’s wheelchair accessible, with infant seats available. Travelers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and engaging experiences, with a 100% recommendation rate.
Read our full review: Soweto & Apartheid Museum Guided Tour Review
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Rhino and Lion Park Guided Tour From Johannesburg
One of the premier guided tours from Johannesburg explores the Rhino and Lion Park, a vast 1200-hectare wildlife reserve teeming with over 700 animals.
The 3-hour guided tour offers close encounters with the Big 5, including opportunities to see rhinos, lions, and cheetahs up close.
Visitors can also visit breeding centers for Bengal and Siberian tigers and even play with cubs for a small fee.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a knowledgeable guide, and all gratuities, making it an excellent value at $83.56 per person.
Customer reviews praise the engaging guides and diverse wildlife sightings.
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Pilanesberg Game Reserve Guided Day Tour From Johannesburg or Pretoria
For those seeking a guided wildlife experience near Johannesburg or Pretoria, the Pilanesberg Game Reserve Guided Day Tour offers an excellent opportunity to explore Africa’s diverse fauna.
Led by experienced safari guides, the tour promises close encounters with the Big Five and other iconic species. Guests travel in open-air vehicles, enjoying educational commentary and a picnic lunch near a watering hole frequented by elephants.
With convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, this 6-hour tour provides a hassle-free way to experience the natural wonders of Pilanesberg. Positive reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and memorable wildlife sightings.
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Elephant Walk Guided Half Day Tour From Johannesburg
The Elephant Walk Guided Half Day Tour from Johannesburg offers a unique opportunity to intimately engage with these majestic creatures.
Departing from Pretoria, South Africa, this highly-rated tour takes guests on a 1-hour walk alongside African elephants under the guidance of knowledgeable keepers. Priced from $183.04 per person, the tour includes national park fees, lunch, and transportation.
Participants will learn about elephant biology, behavior, and conservation efforts. While the minimum age is 12 and the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, guests have praised the professionalism of the staff and the memorable experience of interacting with the elephants in their natural habitat.
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Full-Day Cradle of Humankind Guided Tour From Johannesburg or Pretoria
Although departing from either Johannesburg or Pretoria, this full-day guided tour takes visitors on an engaging exploration of the Cradle of Humankind, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its wealth of ancient human and animal fossils.
Guests visit key sites like Sterkfontein and Maropeng, learning about the region’s unique geology and archaeological significance.
Lunch is included, and the tour provides transportation, entry fees, and an English-speaking guide.
With 4.7 out of 5 stars from 6 reviews, this tour offers an immersive experience highlighting the origins of humanity in a comfortable, well-organized manner.
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Soweto Tour With a Local Guide
Visitors exploring Pretoria’s rich history and vibrant culture will find the Soweto Tour with a Local Guide to be a captivating experience.
This private tour allows guests to discover the iconic township of Soweto alongside a knowledgeable local guide. Travelers will enjoy air-conditioned transportation, all fees and taxes, bottled water, and even a complimentary lunch.
With a 4.8-star rating based on 10 reviews, this tour is highly recommended, with 100% of guests expressing satisfaction.
Whether you’re exploring on your own or with a group, this immersive experience offers an authentic glimpse into Soweto’s past and present.
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2 Day Private Pilanesberg Guided Tour
A 2-day private guided tour of Pilanesberg National Park offers visitors an immersive experience in one of South Africa’s premier wildlife destinations.
Guests will explore the park’s diverse landscapes and spot the Big Five during morning and afternoon game drives in open-air vehicles.
Accommodation, meals, and transportation are all included, and knowledgeable guides provide insights into the area’s wildlife and ecology.
With a 5-star rating and glowing reviews, this tour promises unforgettable wildlife encounters and a personalized, comfortable adventure.
Travelers can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
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Pretoria City Guided Day Tour
This comprehensive guided tour of Pretoria, South Africa’s capital city, offers travelers an immersive exploration of the country’s historical, cultural, and architectural highlights.
Visitors will explore top attractions like Church Square, the Union Buildings, and the Voortrekker Monument, all while learning about the city’s rich history and vibrant people.
The tour includes a professional guide with extensive knowledge, a delicious lunch, and private transportation, ensuring a seamless and personalized experience.
With a 5.0 rating and glowing reviews, this tour is a must-do for anyone seeking to uncover the essence of Pretoria, the Garden City.
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Full Day Guided Bushwalk
Although the Pretoria City Guided Day Tour offers an immersive exploration of the capital’s historical and cultural highlights, travelers seeking a more intimate connection with nature may opt for the Full Day Guided Bushwalk.
This small-group experience at the Ukutula Conservation Center allows visitors to learn about African wildlife and observe lions, cheetahs, and cubs in their natural habitat.
Led by qualified rangers and safari guides, the flexible tour promises an interactive encounter with big cats, enhancing one’s appreciation for the wonders of the natural world.
At $278.54 per person, the tour’s inclusions make it a compelling choice.
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Johannesburg and Soweto Private Guided Tour With Shebeen Lunch.
Travelers seeking an immersive exploration of Johannesburg and Soweto can opt for the Private Guided Tour.
This 8-hour experience covers key attractions, including the Carlton Centre, Apartheid Museum, and Soweto township. Highlights include visiting the former homes of Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu, and enjoying a lunch on the historic Vilakazi Street.
With a rating of 4.8/5 from 5 reviews, the tour provides an informative and rundown of the region’s history and culture.
Hotel pickup, admission fees, and a professional guide are included, making this tour a convenient and enriching option.
Read our full review: Johannesburg and Soweto Private Guided Tour With Shebeen Lunch. Review
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Elephant Walk Guided Tour From Johannesburg R2150 Private
For those looking to venture beyond the urban landscapes of Johannesburg, the Elephant Walk Guided Tour offers a unique opportunity to encounter Africa’s gentle giants up close.
Priced at R2150 for a private tour, this excursion takes visitors to Pretoria, where they can learn about the biology, behavior, and conservation status of the magnificent African elephants.
The tour includes pickup and drop-off, lunch, refreshments, entrance fees, and a knowledgeable guide.
With wheelchair accessibility, stroller access, and proximity to public transportation, the tour caters to a wide range of guests.
Positive reviews highlight the up-close experience and exceptional value.
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Rhino and Lion Park Guided Tour From Pretoria, THURSDAYS & SUNDAYS
The Rhino and Lion Park Guided Tour offers visitors a chance to explore the diverse wildlife of the region, with a focus on the park’s iconic rhinos and lions.
The tour departs from Pretoria on Thursdays and Sundays, providing door-to-door hotel transfers. Guests will visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, The Cradle of Humankind, and embark on a driving tour to observe various species, including cheetahs, crocodiles, and zebras.
The tour also includes a visit to the on-site breeding center for white lions and Bengal tigers. Admission to the nature reserve and a driver/guide are included, though gratuities, food, and drinks are not.
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Safe Guided Tour of Johannesburg City and Soweto
Visitors to Pretoria can explore Johannesburg and Soweto through a safe guided tour that showcases South Africa’s rich history and culture.
The one-day private tour includes visits to key sites such as Constitution Hill, Apartheid Museum, and Hector Pieterson Museum. Travelers will discover Kliptown with a local guide and enjoy a local lunch.
The tour offers air-conditioned transportation, bottled water, entrance fees, and gratuities. It’s wheelchair and stroller accessible, with infant seats available.
With a 5-star rating from over 1 review, this tour provides a comprehensive and immersive experience for $128 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours.
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Soweto With Apartheid Museum Guided Tour
This guided tour of Soweto and the Apartheid Museum provides an immersive exploration of South Africa’s complex history.
Guests join a private tour group for a rundown, including round-trip transportation, a professional guide, and entrance to the museum.
The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it suitable for most travelers.
With an overall 5-star rating based on verified reviews, this experience offers an engaging and informative look into Soweto and the Apartheid era.
Non-refundable bookings start at $105.79 per person, with gratuities included.
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Guided Private Cycling Tour in Pretoria and Surrounding Areas
Adventurous travelers can embark on a 2-hour guided private cycling tour through the scenic forests surrounding Pretoria and Johannesburg. Offered from $61.28 per person, the tour provides an air-conditioned vehicle, mountain bikes with accessories, and snacks.
Guests can expect to ride on well-maintained single-track trails varying in difficulty from beginner to expert. The knowledgeable guide, Shane, tailors the experience to participants’ skill levels.
After the ride, guests unwind with a cold drink at a unique café. With a 5.0 rating from 5 reviews, this cycling tour is an excellent way to explore the great outdoors near Pretoria.
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Soweto Guided Pub Crawl With Dinner – Pretoria
For beer enthusiasts and food lovers, the Soweto Guided Pub Crawl With Dinner in Pretoria, South Africa, offers an immersive experience to explore the local bars and indulge in traditional cuisine.
The tour includes private transportation, a tasting of five local beers, and a complimentary tequila shot. Travelers can also purchase additional beer after the tasting.
The highlight is a dinner featuring traditional South African fare. The tour starts at 4:00 PM and is limited to 10 travelers, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
However, it’s not suitable for those with mobility issues or medical conditions.
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Cullinan Diamond Mine Surface Guided Tour From Pretoria, Every MONDAY
The Cullinan Diamond Mine Surface Guided Tour from Pretoria operates every Monday, providing visitors an opportunity to explore the historic site that has been open since 1902.
The guided surface tour includes entrance fees and round-trip transportation from Pretoria. Travelers will explore the mine’s huge opening, shaft, and diamond room, learning about South Africa’s diamond mining history.
The tour is led by an engaging guide and accommodates a maximum of 10 travelers per group. While food and drinks aren’t included, the tour offers a moderate physical activity level and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
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Cullinan Diamond Mine Surface Guided Tour From Johannesburg, Every Monday.
Travelers visiting Pretoria can embark on a guided surface tour of the historic Cullinan Diamond Mine every Monday.
The tour departs from Johannesburg, with hotel or airport pickup and drop-off provided. Guests will explore the site of the world’s biggest diamond discovery in 1905 and learn about the diamond mining process from the knowledgeable guide.
An opportunity to purchase the unique Cullinan Star Cut diamond with 66 facets is available.
The tour includes transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned coach or minivan, but food, drinks, and gratuities aren’t included. A moderate fitness level is required, and the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.
Read our full review: Cullinan Diamond Mine Surface Guided Tour From Johannesburg, Every Monday. Review
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Soweto Guided Half-Day Tour With Mandela House Visit – Pretoria
Although known for its rich cultural heritage, Soweto Township in Pretoria offers travelers an interactive and culturally sensitive half-day guided tour.
This tour showcases the area’s highlights, including Nelson Mandela’s house, the Hector Pieterson Memorial, and the Credo Mutwa Cultural Village. Priced at $176.41 per person, the tour includes 2-way transfers, entrance fees, and a visit to the Oppenheimer Cultural Centre.
With a maximum of 30 travelers per group, the tour provides a personalized experience. Based on 5-star reviews, this tour is a must-do for those seeking to enjoy Soweto’s vibrant culture.
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Rhino and Lion Park Guided Closest Safari Reserve to Johannesburg and Pretoria
One of the premier guided safari experiences near Johannesburg and Pretoria, the Rhino and Lion Park offers visitors an up-close encounter with South Africa’s iconic wildlife.
The 8-hour private safari includes transportation, lunch, and the chance to see lions, rhinos, cheetahs, and wild dogs in spacious enclosures. Guests can choose a morning or afternoon departure and enjoy excellent wildlife viewing from a 4×4 safari vehicle.
The tour includes bottled water, a professional guide, and hotel pickup and drop-off. While gratuities aren’t included, the experience is wheelchair accessible and has a child rate available.
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Pilanesberg National Park Full Day Guided Tour( Safari Experience)
The Pilanesberg National Park Full Day Guided Tour (Safari Experience) whisks visitors on an unforgettable journey through one of South Africa’s renowned wildlife havens.
Priced from $183.28 per person, the tour offers an immersive game drive with an experienced, knowledgeable guide.
Pickup is available from various locations around Pretoria, and the activity ends back at the meeting point.
Catering to diverse needs, the tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and service animals are welcome.
Participants can enjoy complimentary bottled water and alcoholic beverages.
With a minimum of 2 people required, the private tour ensures an exclusive experience.
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Half Day Guided Soweto Walking Excursion
Guests explore the vibrant history and culture of Soweto on this half-day guided walking excursion. The tour meets at the K & K Soweto Bakery and ends at the iconic Soweto Towers.
Along the way, participants learn about Soweto’s role in the anti-apartheid movement and visit the Nelson Mandela House. A beer tasting and included lunch provide opportunities to further immerse in the local experience.
With a maximum of 15 travelers, the tour offers an intimate and personalized exploration of this renowned Johannesburg township. Rated 5.0 based on one review, the excursion is accessible for most visitors.
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Half-Day Guided Group Tour in Soweto
This half-day guided group tour in Soweto offers visitors an immersive experience to explore the vibrant history and culture of this renowned Johannesburg township.
The tour accommodates a maximum of 21 travelers, providing transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle with pickup and drop-off included.
Highlights include visiting the Hector Pieterson Museum and Nelson Mandela House, with an optional bungee jump available for an additional fee.
While gratuities aren’t included, the tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and near public transportation.
However, recent reviews suggest the tour operator may be unreliable, and reimbursement is pending for a no-show.
Read our full review: Half-Day Guided Group Tour in Soweto Review
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Guided Gold Reef City Heritage Tour
Exploring the vibrant Gold Reef City Theme Park and Casino offers visitors a unique opportunity to enjoy Pretoria’s rich mining heritage.
This guided tour takes guests on a journey through a former gold mine-turned-casino, including an elevator ride to the 14th Mining Shift. Along the way, they’ll learn about the lives of late 19th-century mineworkers.
The tour also includes a scenic stop at Houghton Estate for stunning views of Johannesburg.
With private transportation, bottled water, and a personalized experience, this heritage tour provides an educational and enjoyable day for those seeking to connect with South Africa’s past.
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Private Johannesburg, Soweto and Apartheid Museum Guided Day Tour R1600,00
The Private Johannesburg, Soweto and Apartheid Museum Guided Day Tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the city’s historical and cultural landmarks.
Priced at R1600.00 ($105.84 per person), the tour includes round-trip transportation, entrance fees, guide commentary, and a driver.
Guests can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the tour and the reserve now, pay later option.
The tour is accessible for wheelchair users and stroller-bound travelers, and service animals are permitted.
With a 5.0-star rating based on Viator and Tripadvisor reviews, this tour provides an immersive and educational experience in Johannesburg.
Read our full review: Private Johannesburg, Soweto and Apartheid Museum Guided Day Tour R1600,00 Review
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The Sum Up
Pretoria offers a variety of guided tours to explore the city’s rich history and natural wonders. From the Soweto & Apartheid Museum to the Rhino and Lion Park, visitors can explore the country’s past and witness its diverse wildlife. Whether seeking a half-day excursion or a full-day adventure, Pretoria’s guided tours provide an immersive and informative experience for all.