The Pretoria Zoo, officially known as the National Zoological Gardens of South Africa, is one of the oldest and largest zoos in the country. It spans over 80 hectares and is home to more than 9,000 animals, including mammals, birds, and reptiles, from all around the world. Many tourists and locals alike visit the zoo every day to see the animals up close and learn about their habitats and behaviors.
- Entrance Fees
- Adults (over 12 years old) - South African citizens
- Adults (over 12 years old) - SADC citizens (Angola, Botswana, Democratic Republic of Congo, Lesotho, Madagascar, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Seychelles, Swaziland, United Republic of Tanzania, Zambia, and Zimbabwe)
- Adults (over 12 years old) - International visitors
- Children (2 to 15 years old) - South African citizens
- Children (2 to 15 years old) - SADC citizens
- Children (2 to 15 years old) - International visitors
- Additional Charges
- Conclusion
Entrance Fees
Like most attractions, the Pretoria Zoo has an entrance fee that visitors must pay to gain access to the premises. The fee varies depending on factors such as age, nationality, and the season, with the prices being higher during peak periods. Generally, the zoo offers discounts to children, students, and pensioners, as well as residents of South Africa. The following is an overview of the entrance fees as of the time of writing:
Adults (over 12 years old) - South African citizens
R120 per person
Adults (over 12 years old) - SADC citizens (Angola, Botswana, Democratic Republic of Congo, Lesotho, Madagascar, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Seychelles, Swaziland, United Republic of Tanzania, Zambia, and Zimbabwe)
R230 per person
Adults (over 12 years old) - International visitors
R265 per person
Children (2 to 15 years old) - South African citizens
R75 per person
Children (2 to 15 years old) - SADC citizens
R160 per person
Children (2 to 15 years old) - International visitors
R190 per person
It is important to note that these fees are subject to change without prior notice, and visitors are advised to check the zoo's official website or call the zoo's administration to confirm the current prices before planning their visit.
Additional Charges
Apart from the entrance fee, there are other charges that visitors may incur during their visit to the Pretoria Zoo. These charges include:
- Guided tours: Visitors who want a more detailed and informative tour of the zoo can book a guided tour with a trained guide. Guided tours cost between R90 and R150 per person, depending on the type of tour and the size of the group.
- Parking: The zoo has a parking area where visitors can park their cars. The parking fee is R25 per car, and visitors are advised to arrive early to secure a parking space.
- Animal interactions: The zoo offers various animal interactions where visitors can get up close and personal with some of the animals. These interactions cost between R50 and R150 per person, depending on the animal and the duration of the interaction.
- Food and drinks: There are various food and drink stalls located throughout the zoo where visitors can buy refreshments. The prices of these refreshments vary depending on the type of refreshment and the vendor.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the entrance fee to the Pretoria Zoo varies depending on factors such as age, nationality, and season. Visitors are advised to check the zoo's website or call the administration to confirm the current prices before planning their visit. In addition to the entrance fee, visitors may also incur additional charges such as guided tours, parking, animal interactions, and refreshments. However, the unique experience of seeing over 9,000 animals from all around the world in one place is definitely worth the price of admission.