The city of Pretoria (Tshwane) developed at a more sedate pace than Johannesburg, and the town planners had the foresight to include an abundance of open spaces. Pretoria has more than 100 parks, including bird sanctuaries and nature reserves.

Large numbers of Voortrekkers arrived in the region in the 1850s, and an air of history pervades much of central Pretoria, especially Church Square, around which the city has grown. The square was the site of the first church, the first markets and the first shops.

Progress has brought to Pretoria high-tech shopping centres, museums, art galleries and multi-culinary restaurants. The city has four universities and a number of scientific institutes, including the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and the Onderstepoort Veterinary Research Institute, both internationally renowned. Within easy reach, day walks provide a relaxing introduction to the region's natural habitats, many inhabited by indigenous animals and birds.