Pretoria Travel Guide

Getting Around Pretoria

Pretoria is a bustling city with limited safe and convenient public transport, to the detriment of its visitors. City transport consists of an unreliable bus network and a series of minibus taxi routes, neither of which operate much after dark. The quickest and cheapest way to get around is on a minibus ''taxi'', an informal bus service that goes everywhere but has no schedule or formal stops and can be picked up at taxi ranks or hailed anywhere along its route. However, dangerous driving, overcrowding and high crime rates at taxi ranks have deterred many from using them as a means of transport. If necessary, use them for short hops only and never with baggage. Safer but far more expensive are metered taxis, which need to be booked in advance. The best way to get around is by private car and there is an excellent network of highways and well-maintained roads. There are a number of car rental agencies; most require drivers to be over 23 years old and hold a full driving license. A passport and credit card are also necessary. Drivers should keep their windows up and doors locked at all times, never leave anything visible in a parked car, and never stop for hitchhikers. Be aware that there is a risk of car hijacking so remain alert, especially when leaving or returning to the car, and seek out secure parking. A high-speed rail link, called the ''Gautrain'', is being constructed between Pretoria, Johannesburg and OR Tambo International Airport, which should be complete by 2010, just in time for the FIFA World Cup.