🦩 Pretoria's National Zoological Gardens, South Africa

Spanning 85 hectares, this iconic zoo in South Africa’s administrative capital is managed by the National Research Foundation (under the Dept. of Science & Culture—yes, that’s a mouthful! 😆). One of the largest zoos in the world! 🌍🦁 🏙️ Pretoria Vibes While Pretoria is a predominantly Black city, this pocket near 16TH STREET (📍🔍 for dining!) feels oddly European—full of restaurants and a visible white population, making it relatively safe. 🎟️ Zoo Essentials Entry: R100 (~40 RMB) Parking: R30 Google Maps: 🔍 National Zoological Gardens 🏗️ Old-School Charm A relic of the 20th century, the zoo shows its age—abandoned cable cars, weathered shops, and faded facilities. But don’t be fooled! It’s MASSIVE! We walked nonstop for 2+ hours and still didn’t see everything! 🌿 Wildlife & Nature Open-air habitats blend seamlessly with exotic trees, streams, and sprawling lawns. Spot Amazonian & Australian species—yes, in Africa! 🌴🐨 Same size as Beijing Zoo, but with fewer crowds and lush flora, making it a far superior experience! Animals are WELL-FED (take notes, Beijing Zoo! 😏). 🦁 Highlights Big Cat Feeding: 2:30 PM daily (lions & tigers!). Aquarium: Near the entrance (closed during our visit 😢). Golf cart rentals for lazy explorers! 🚗💨 Local families picnicking on the lawns—clearly a weekend hotspot for Pretorians! 👨👩👧👦🧺 💰 Final Verdict 40 RMB for THIS? Absolute steal! 🚀🔥 #Travel #SouthAfrica #ZooLife #WildlifeConservation #UrbanJungle #Pretoria