National Zoological Garden (Pretoria Zoo) in Daspoort, Pretoria: Tickets, Hours and Family Guide
Animals and wildlife in Daspoort, Pretoria
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One of the largest zoos in the world, with over 9,000 animals, a cableway, a reptile park, a walk-through aquarium, and a 'Zoo Choo-Choo' train for kids.
What is National Zoological Garden (Pretoria Zoo)?
The National Zoological Garden in Pretoria is a world-class facility and one of the largest zoos globally, housing over 9,000 animals. It is divided into a flat area with savannah exhibits and an aquarium, and a hilly section with large carnivores and panoramic views. Families can take the cableway to the top of the hill for breathtaking views, explore the reptile park, or ride the 'Zoo Choo-Choo' train. Golf carts are available for rent to navigate the 6km of pathways. The zoo is a cashless facility.
The National Zoological Garden is managed by SANBI and is a hub for conservation research and breeding programmes.
National Zoological Garden (Pretoria Zoo) ticket prices 2026
| Visitor type | Adult | Child | Toddler |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard rate | ZAR 95 | ZAR 50 | Free |
Entry starts from around R95. The zoo is a cashless facility; bring a bank card. Special R27 on the 27th monthly promotion until September 2027.
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💡 Money-saving tips for families
- R27 on the 27th Monthly special
- Cashless Bring a card
- Cableway Great views of Pretoria
Is it right for your child's age?
| Age group | Verdict | What to expect |
|---|---|---|
| 0-2 years | Good | Paved paths and train ride |
| 3-5 years | Great | Zoo Choo-Choo and aquarium |
| 6-9 years | Great | Cableway and reptile park |
| 10-12 years | Great | Full zoo experience |
| 13+ years | Great | Conservation and research |
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Key details
- Address
- Boom Street, Daspoort 319-Jr, Pretoria, 0001, Pretoria
- Opening hours
- 08:30-17:30 Open now
- How long to plan
- 3 to 4 hours
- Suitable ages
- All ages
- Setting
- Outdoor
- Booking
- Walk-in; book golf carts and cableway online
- Payment accepted
- Card only; cashless facility
- Phone
- +27 12 339 2700
What to expect when you visit
Start with the flat area and aquarium, then take the cableway to the hilly section for the carnivores and views. The Zoo Choo-Choo train is a hit with little ones. Rent a golf cart if you want to cover more ground easily. Allow 3-4 hours.
What if...?
The questions every parent asks before booking. Tap to expand.
Is the zoo cashless?
Yes, bring a bank card.
Is there a cableway?
Yes, a 7-minute ride to the top.
Is there a train for kids?
Yes, the Zoo Choo-Choo.
Family essentials
- Suitable age bands
- 0–2 years
- 3–5 years
- 6–9 years
- 10–12 years
- 13+ years
- Safety notes
Supervise children around animal enclosures and on the cableway.
Tickets and costs
- Parking
- Free
- Free entry rules
- No
- Extra costs (activities, rentals, food)
Cableway, reptile park, aquarium, Zoo Choo-Choo train, golf cart rental
Plan your visit
- Combine with
- Union Buildings
- Voortrekker Monument
- Freedom Park
- What to bring
- Comfortable shoes
- sunscreen
- bank card
Accessibility deep dive
Here is what to expect on the ground.
What to pack
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Family day bag checklist
What visitors say
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Frequently asked questions
- How much does it cost to visit National Zoological Garden (Pretoria Zoo)?
- Adults pay ZAR 95 and children pay ZAR 50. Children under the toddler age enter free. Entry starts from around R95. The zoo is a cashless facility; bring a bank card. Special R27 on the 27th monthly promotion until September 2027.
- What are the National Zoological Garden (Pretoria Zoo) opening hours?
- 08:30-17:30.
- How long do you need at National Zoological Garden (Pretoria Zoo)?
- Plan for 3 to 4 hours.
- What payment methods does National Zoological Garden (Pretoria Zoo) accept?
- National Zoological Garden (Pretoria Zoo) accepts Card only; cashless facility. It does not accept cash.
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