Naval Hill Planetarium in Bloemfontein, Bloemfontein: Tickets, Hours and Family Guide
Museums and history in Bloemfontein, Bloemfontein
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The first digital planetarium in sub-Saharan Africa, offering immersive full-dome shows about the universe from a historic observatory on Naval Hill.
What is Naval Hill Planetarium?
The Naval Hill Planetarium in Bloemfontein is a digital planetarium and astronomy education centre, the first of its kind in sub-Saharan Africa. It is housed in the historic Lamont-Hussey Observatory on Naval Hill and offers immersive full-dome projection shows covering stars, planets, galaxies, and cosmic phenomena. The presentations are designed for all ages and are a popular educational outing for families and school groups.
The planetarium promotes science education and astro-tourism in the Free State.
Naval Hill Planetarium ticket prices 2026
| Visitor type | Adult | Child | Toddler |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard rate | ZAR 60 | ZAR 40 | Free |
Adult tickets around R60, children around R40. Shows run at scheduled times; confirm current rates and times when booking.
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Estimates only, based on the rates above. Extras vary.
💡 Money-saving tips for families
- Book in advance Shows fill up. Arrive early
Is it right for your child's age?
| Age group | Verdict | What to expect |
|---|---|---|
| 0-2 years | Okay | The dark dome may be unsettling for some toddlers. |
| 3-5 years | Good | The visuals are engaging. |
| 6-9 years | Great | An educational and fun experience. |
| 10-12 years | Great | Inspiring for curious minds. |
| 13+ years | Great | A fascinating introduction to astronomy. |
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Key details
- Address
- Naval Hill, Bloemfontein, 9301, Bloemfontein
- Opening hours
- Shows at scheduled times; book in advance
- How long to plan
- 1 to 1.5 hours
- Suitable ages
- All ages
- Setting
- Indoor
- Booking
- Book online or by phone
- Payment accepted
- Card
- Cash
- Phone
- +27 51 401 9000
What to expect when you visit
Book a show in advance. Arrive early to explore the observatory building. The full-dome shows are engaging for all ages. Allow about 1 to 1.5 hours.
What if...?
The questions every parent asks before booking. Tap to expand.
Do we need to book?
Yes, shows are scheduled and should be booked in advance.
Is it good for young children?
Yes, but some toddlers may find the dark dome unsettling.
How long is the show?
About 1 hour.
Family essentials
- Suitable age bands
- 0–2 years
- 3–5 years
- 6–9 years
- 10–12 years
- 13+ years
- Toddler suitability
- Okay for toddlers
- Minimum age
- No minimum age
- Facilities
- Toilets
- Parking
- Access and parking
- Wheelchair accessible
- Free parking
- Safety notes
Keep children seated during the show and follow the presenter's instructions.
Tickets and costs
- Parking
- Free
- Free entry rules
- No
- Extra costs (activities, rentals, food)
Full-dome shows, astronomy education
Plan your visit
- Combine with
- Free State National Botanical Garden
- Bloemfontein Zoo
- Lochs Hoek Farm
- What to bring
- Light jacket
- Camera
Accessibility deep dive
Here is what to expect on the ground.
The planetarium is accessible.
Not confirmed.
Free on-site parking.
Combine your visit
Plan the perfect day
Resident family of 4 estimate: ~R200 (2 adults, 2 children)
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 Naval Hill Planetarium?
- Adults pay ZAR 60 and children pay ZAR 40. Children under the toddler age enter free. Adult tickets around R60, children around R40. Shows run at scheduled times; confirm current rates and times when booking.
- What are the Naval Hill Planetarium opening hours?
- Shows at scheduled times; book in advance.
- Is Naval Hill Planetarium suitable for toddlers and young children?
- Minimum age: No minimum age. Keep children seated during the show and follow the presenter's instructions.
- How long do you need at Naval Hill Planetarium?
- Plan for 1 to 1.5 hours.
- What payment methods does Naval Hill Planetarium accept?
- Naval Hill Planetarium accepts Card, Cash.
- Is Naval Hill Planetarium accessible, and is there parking?
- Access and parking: Wheelchair accessible, Free parking.
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