Is the Pretoria Zoo entrance fee worth it?

Visiting Pretoria Zoo (officially the National Zoological Garden) is a popular activity for families, tourists, and school groups in Gauteng. But with entrance fees, possible add-ons, and travel costs, many people ask a simple question before going: is the Pretoria Zoo entrance fee actually worth it?

This guide breaks it down clearly — what you pay for, what you get, who benefits most, and when it may or may not be good value.

What does the Pretoria Zoo entrance fee include?

The standard entrance fee gives you access to:

One of the largest zoos in South Africa
Hundreds of animal species, including mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians
The public aquarium, included in general admission
Educational exhibits and conservation-focused facilities
Spacious walking grounds suitable for a half-day to full-day visit

Importantly, your ticket is not limited to a short time window. Once inside, you can explore the zoo at your own pace during operating hours.

What you may pay extra for

While the entrance fee covers the main zoo experience, some activities are optional add-ons:

Zoo train or trackless train rides
Special events such as sunset or night safaris
Guided tours or educational group experiences
Food, drinks, and souvenirs

These extras are not required to enjoy the zoo, but they can increase the total cost — especially for families.

Is the entrance fee good value for families?

Yes — especially for families with children.

Why it’s worth it for families:

Children can spend hours exploring without additional costs
The zoo combines entertainment and education
The aquarium adds extra value at no extra charge
Children under a certain age (typically under 2 years) enter free
Annual memberships are available and become cost-effective after only a few visits

For parents looking for a full-day, screen-free activity, the Pretoria Zoo offers strong value compared to malls, cinemas, or short attractions.

Is it worth it for adults or tourists?

For adults, couples, and tourists:

The zoo is large and well-maintained, making it suitable for relaxed walking
Photography opportunities are excellent
Conservation and research aspects add educational depth
The experience typically lasts several hours, not minutes

If you enjoy nature, wildlife, and learning, the entrance fee is generally justified. However, if you only plan to stay briefly, the value may feel lower.

When the Pretoria Zoo entrance fee may not feel worth it

You might feel the entrance fee isn’t worth it if:

You only want a very short visit
You expect a theme-park-style experience
You visit during peak times with heavy crowds
You add multiple paid extras without budgeting for them

In these cases, planning ahead or visiting on quieter days can significantly improve value.

Tips to get the best value for your money

Buy tickets online where possible (the zoo operates on a cashless system)
Arrive early to see more active animals
Bring comfortable walking shoes — the zoo is large
Pack water and sun protection
Consider an annual membership if you plan to visit more than once
Check for pensioner, student, or group discounts before booking

Final verdict: Is the Pretoria Zoo entrance fee worth it?

Yes, for most visitors.

The Pretoria Zoo entrance fee is worth it if you:

Want a half-day or full-day outing
Are visiting with children or family
Enjoy wildlife, education, and outdoor experiences
Value conservation and research efforts

It may feel less worth it for very short visits, but overall, the combination of size, variety, and included attractions makes the Pretoria Zoo good value for money by South African standards.

Related guides on EntranceFee.co.za

Pretoria Zoo entrance fee
Pretoria Zoo opening hours
Things to do at Pretoria Zoo
Zoo membership costs in South Africa

Is the Pretoria Zoo entrance fee worth it