When visiting Pretoria, the best areas to stay include the city center, Hatfield, Menlo Park, and Waterkloof, which offer a range of accommodation options to suit different types of travelers and budgets.
Best Areas to Stay
For each of the top areas, Pretoria has something unique to offer:
Arcadia (Pretoria)
Best For: Luxury travelers and families
Vibe: Arcadia is known for its beautiful parks, embassies, and historic buildings, offering a tranquil and secure environment, with a mix of old and new architecture that creates a unique and interesting vibe.
Price Range: $80-200/night
Pros: Close proximity to the city center, beautiful parks, and a variety of restaurants, Arcadia offers a range of amenities and activities for visitors, including the Pretoria National Botanical Garden and the Union Buildings.
Cons: Traffic can be heavy during peak hours, and some areas can be quite hilly.
Hatfield (Pretoria)
Best For: Backpackers and students
Vibe: Hatfield is a vibrant and lively area, known for its nightlife, restaurants, and shops, with a mix of old and new buildings that creates a dynamic and energetic vibe.
Price Range: $20-80/night
Pros: Affordable accommodation options, close to the University of Pretoria, and a variety of entertainment options, Hatfield is a great place for young travelers and students to meet new people and experience the local culture.
Cons: Can be noisy at night, and some areas can be quite crowded.
Menlo Park (Pretoria)
Best For: Families and business travelers
Vibe: Menlo Park is a safe and secure area, known for its beautiful homes, parks, and restaurants, offering a relaxed and welcoming environment, with a mix of modern and traditional architecture that creates a sense of community.
Price Range: $60-150/night
Pros: Close to the city center, beautiful parks, and a variety of restaurants, Menlo Park offers a range of amenities and activities for visitors, including the Menlo Park Shopping Centre and the Pretoria Country Club.
Cons: Can be quite suburban, and some areas can be quite far from public transport.
Waterkloof (Pretoria)
Best For: Luxury travelers and families
Vibe: Waterkloof is an upmarket area, known for its beautiful homes, parks, and views of the city, offering a tranquil and secure environment, with a mix of modern and traditional architecture that creates a sense of luxury.
Price Range: $100-250/night
Pros: Close to the city center, beautiful views, and a variety of restaurants, Waterkloof offers a range of amenities and activities for visitors, including the Waterkloof Golf Club and the Pretoria Country Club.
Cons: Can be quite expensive, and some areas can be quite hilly.
Brooklyn (Pretoria)
Best For: Business travelers and families
Vibe: Brooklyn is a safe and secure area, known for its beautiful homes, parks, and restaurants, offering a relaxed and welcoming environment, with a mix of modern and traditional architecture that creates a sense of community.
Price Range: $80-200/night
Pros: Close to the city center, beautiful parks, and a variety of restaurants, Brooklyn offers a range of amenities and activities for visitors, including the Brooklyn Mall and the Pretoria Country Club.
Cons: Can be quite suburban, and some areas can be quite far from public transport.
Pretoria Central (Pretoria)
Best For: Backpackers and budget travelers
Vibe: Pretoria Central is a vibrant and lively area, known for its historic buildings, museums, and markets, with a mix of old and new architecture that creates a dynamic and energetic vibe.
Price Range: $20-60/night
Pros: Affordable accommodation options, close to the city's main attractions, and a variety of entertainment options, Pretoria Central is a great place for travelers to experience the local culture and meet new people.
Cons: Can be quite crowded, and some areas can be quite noisy.
Accommodation Types
| Type | Price Range (USD/night) | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hostels | $10-30 | Budget/Social | Shared rooms and communal facilities, great for meeting new people |
| Guesthouses | $30-80 | Mid-range/Local | Family-run establishments, often with a personal touch and local knowledge |
| Hotels | $60-150 | Comfort/Business | Range of amenities, including restaurants, gyms, and conference facilities |
| Boutique Hotels | $100-250 | Experience | Unique and luxurious, often with a focus on design and service |
| Resorts | $150-300 | Relaxation | Typically located outside the city, offering a range of leisure activities and amenities |
| Apartments/Airbnb | $40-100 | Long stays/Families | Self-catering options, often with a more home-like atmosphere and flexibility |
Booking Tips
- Book in advance, especially during peak season (June to August and December)
- Use online booking platforms, such as Booking.com or Airbnb, to compare prices and find deals
- Consider negotiating the price, especially for longer stays or off-season bookings
- Be aware of any additional fees or charges, such as breakfast or parking
- Read reviews and check the location before booking, to ensure it meets your needs and expectations
- Look for special offers or packages, such as discounts for students or seniors
- Use travel agencies or tour operators for more complex bookings or customized itineraries
Safety & Location Tips
- Avoid walking alone at night, especially in unfamiliar areas
- Use reputable taxi services or ride-hailing apps, and always check the driver's ID before getting in
- Keep valuables secure, and be mindful of pickpocketing in crowded areas
- Be aware of your surroundings, and avoid displaying signs of wealth (e.g. expensive jewelry or watches)
- Stay in well-lit and populated areas, especially at night
- Consider staying in areas with good security, such as gated communities or hotels with 24-hour reception
- Research the area before booking, to ensure it is safe and suitable for your needs and preferences