Voortrekker Monument Tours

Voortrekker Monument showing a monument
Voortrekker Monument which includes a monument
Voortrekker Monument which includes interior views and a monument
Voortrekker Monument featuring signage and a monument
Voortrekker Monument showing a monument


Pretoria was named after a Dutchman and this massive hilltop structure recounts the history behind the group of Dutch pioneers to which he belonged.

The 131-foot (40-meter) tall fortress of the Voortrekker Monument memorializes the group of Dutch settlers who founded Pretoria. Learn the history of their voyage inside the large, art deco monument.

In 1835, thousands of Dutch settlers left the British city of Cape Town on the south coast and headed north. This was the start of what came to be called the Great Trek. The voyagers were dubbed the Voortrekkers, or pioneers. They eventually settled on the land that became the Transvaal, declaring it independent of British rule. In 1855, Pretoria was founded and named after Andries Pretorius, one of the leaders of the Voortrekkers. See this history depicted in 27 panels that line the walls within the Voortrekker Monument.

Look for the extensive tapestry depicting further scenes from the Great Trek. It took nine women 8 years of work to complete this cloth, which has more than 3.3 million stitches. Find a sculpture of a Voortrekker woman and her two children within the monument. This sculpture was designed by Anton von Wouw, who also sculpted the Paul Kruger statue in Pretoria's Church Square.

Climb down to the lower floor to see Cenotaph Hall, where an empty tomb commemorates the Voortrekkers who died during the Great Trek. Look for a canvas elsewhere in the museum to see an example of the tales that led to the demise of these unlucky settlers. This canvas depicts the treacherous passage of the settlers over the Drakensberg Mountains, which lie to the southeast of Pretoria.

Built in the mid-1900s, the Voortrekker Monument was designed in an art deco style. Climb to the top of the building to see views of Pretoria from above.

Explore the nature preserve around the Voortrekker Monument. Paths pass through the brush. Visit the Garden of Remembrance to the west of the monument for some peace and shade.

The Voortrekker Monument is located several miles south of Pretoria and can be accessed by car or taxi. Parking is available at the monument. The museum is open daily and there is a fee for admission.

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Best Lodging Options Near Voortrekker Monument

ANEW Hotel Capital Pretoria

ANEW Hotel Capital Pretoria

4 out of 5
390 van der Walt Street, Lilian Ngoyi Street, Pretoria, Gauteng
ANEW Hotel Capital Pretoria
Manhattan Hotel

Manhattan Hotel

3 out of 5
247 Scheiding Street, Pretoria, Gauteng
Manhattan Hotel
Protea Hotel by Marriott Pretoria Loftus Park

Protea Hotel by Marriott Pretoria Loftus Park

3.5 out of 5
Corner of Kirkness Street and Park St, Pretoria, Gauteng
Protea Hotel by Marriott Pretoria Loftus Park
Morning Star Express Hotel

Morning Star Express Hotel

3 out of 5
327 Visagie Street, Pretoria, Gauteng
Morning Star Express Hotel
Ebony Guest House

Ebony Guest House

53 Charlotte Maxeke St, Pretoria, Gauteng
Ebony Guest House
The Park Lodge Hotel

The Park Lodge Hotel

3.5 out of 5
499 Thabo Sehume street, Pretoria, Gauteng
The Park Lodge Hotel
StayEasy Pretoria

StayEasy Pretoria

3 out of 5
632 Lilian Ngoyi St, Pretoria, Gauteng
StayEasy Pretoria
Hotel 224

Hotel 224

3 out of 5
C/o Francis Baard And Leyds Street, Pretoria, Gauteng
Hotel 224
Muckleneuk Manor

Muckleneuk Manor

4 out of 5
270 Mears Street, Muckleneuk, Pretoria, Gauteng
Muckleneuk Manor
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Voortrekker Monument

At the Voortrekker Monument in Pretoria, Gauteng, visitors can enjoy a range of activities including golfing and wildlife experiences. The site offers excellent sightseeing opportunities and scenic walking trails, making it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Take in the stunning architecture of the monument while exploring the surrounding landscapes, ensuring a memorable experience during your vacation.

Shopping

While visiting the Voortrekker Monument, you can shop at Brooklyn Mall, only 4 miles away, offering a vibrant atmosphere. Menlyn Park Shopping Centre and Centurion Mall are both 6 miles from the monument, featuring a great mix of entertainment and shopping options for the whole family.

Recreation

Loftus Versfeld Stadium offers an energetic atmosphere for sports enthusiasts, while Waterkloof Golf Club provides a relaxing outdoor golfing experience. For family fun, visit 19th Hole Putt-Putt, where adventure awaits in a vibrant mini-golf setting just a short drive from Voortrekker Monument.

Adventure

For thrill-seekers, Zwartkops Raceway, located 5 miles from Voortrekker Monument, offers exhilarating motor racing experiences. If you're looking for breathtaking views, the Aerial Cableway Hartbeespoort Station, 19 miles away, provides a scenic gondola ride. For family fun, explore the Honeydew Mazes, situated 26 miles away.

Nightlife

The nightlife around Voortrekker Monument is vibrant, featuring venues like the State Theatre and Breytenbach Theatre, both just 2 miles away, offering rich culture and family-friendly entertainment. For a broader experience, the Centurion Theatre, located 5 miles away, also adds to the area's romantic and entertaining atmosphere.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Voortrekker Monument

During your visit to the Voortrekker Monument in Pretoria, Gauteng, you'll find a rich array of attractions including historic colleges and government buildings, as well as nature reserves. This destination is perfect for culture enthusiasts and families alike, offering a majestic experience at the monument itself and nearby attractions. Be sure to explore the various visitor attractions that showcase the area's history and beauty.

  • UNISA: The University of South Africa (UNISA) is a historic institution steeped in culture. Located 2 miles from the Voortrekker Monument, it offers a glimpse into South Africa's educational heritage and vibrant student life, perfect for those interested in academic pursuits and cultural exploration.
  • Union Buildings: Situated 3 miles away, the Union Buildings are a stunning example of architectural grandeur and the seat of the South African government. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful gardens and panoramic views of Pretoria, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
  • Freedom Park Heritage Site & Museum: Just 1 mile from the Voortrekker Monument, this urban park commemorates South Africa's history and heritage. It offers a family-friendly atmosphere with outdoor spaces, making it ideal for those looking to connect with the country's diverse narratives.

Best time to go to Voortrekker Monument

The best time to visit Voortrekker Monument can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Voortrekker Monument falls in January, when visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Voortrekker Monument falls in July, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January70.7°F (21.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
February69.8°F (21.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
March68.2°F (20.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April63.0°F (17.2°C)Light RainSunnyAverageAverage
May59.0°F (15.0°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly High
June53.2°F (11.8°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
July53.1°F (11.7°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly High
August58.8°F (14.9°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighAverage
September66.4°F (19.1°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighAverage
October69.1°F (20.6°C)Light RainSunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
November69.8°F (21.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
December70.3°F (21.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Voortrekker Monument

To save money during your visit to the Voortrekker Monument, consider traveling in October or from December to January when prices are lower. Saturdays offer the best hotel rates, while Tuesdays tend to be more expensive. Use Expedia's search tools to filter for budget-friendly options and Eco-certified hotels. Combine hotel, flight, and activity bookings for extra savings through package deals. Joining Expedia's One Key membership can provide additional discounts and OneKeyCash for future stays. Always compare room rates and secure bookings to ensure you get the best deal.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Voortrekker Monument are October and December to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to February, May and July, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Voortrekker Monument is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay around Voortrekker Monument is Tuesday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool lets you set your budget, choose your ideal location, and more. You can easily sort the results to view hotels from the lowest to highest prices, ensuring you find the most affordable options first. Additionally, you can refine your selection by hotel type; for instance, if you check the Eco-certified filter, you'll be shown sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that you can book.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservation for the Voortrekker Monument with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.

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