What is included in the Pretoria Zoo entrance fee?
If you’re planning a visit to National Zoological Garden Pretoria, it’s important to understand exactly what you get for the entrance fee — and what costs extra. This guide breaks it down clearly so you can plan your visit and budget properly.
What your Pretoria Zoo entrance fee includes
The standard Pretoria Zoo entrance ticket gives you access to the core visitor experience. This includes:
Full access to the zoo grounds
Your ticket allows entry to the entire zoo, including all publicly accessible walking paths and animal enclosures. You can explore the zoo at your own pace and view a wide range of mammals, birds, and other wildlife housed across the property.
Aquarium access
The Pretoria Zoo Aquarium is included in the entrance fee. Visitors can view freshwater and marine species without paying an additional charge.
Reptile Park access
Entry to the Reptile Park is also covered by the standard ticket. This section features snakes, crocodiles, lizards, and other reptiles and forms part of the main zoo experience.
Use of public visitor facilities
Your entrance fee includes access to:
- Picnic areas
- Public restrooms
- Restaurants, kiosks, and food courts
- General seating and rest zones
While access is included, food, drinks, and retail purchases are charged separately.
What is not included in the entrance fee
Some services and experiences at Pretoria Zoo require an additional payment:
Parking
Vehicle parking at Pretoria Zoo is not included in the entrance fee. Parking is charged separately per vehicle.
Guided tours and special animal experiences
Behind-the-scenes tours, animal feeding experiences, and educational group activities must be booked separately and are priced independently from general admission.
Golf cart hire and mobility rentals
Golf carts and other mobility options are available for hire to help visitors move around the large zoo grounds. These are optional add-ons.
Night events and sunset safaris
Special events such as Night at the Zoo or sunset safaris are ticketed separately and are not covered by daytime entrance fees.
Are the Aquarium and Reptile Park included?
Yes.
Both the Aquarium and Reptile Park are included in the standard Pretoria Zoo entrance fee and do not require additional tickets during normal operating hours.
Does the entrance fee include food or drinks?
No.
Restaurants, cafés, kiosks, and vending areas operate independently. You are welcome to purchase food on-site or bring your own and use the picnic facilities.
Do memberships include free entry?
Pretoria Zoo memberships (offered through SANBI) provide added benefits such as:
- Unlimited or discounted entry
- Discounts on food and selected experiences
- Access to other SANBI gardens
Memberships are separate from standard entrance tickets and are ideal for frequent visitors.
Important tips before you visit
- The zoo operates on a cashless payment system, so booking tickets online is strongly recommended
- The zoo is large — allow at least half a day for a relaxed visit
- Parking is paid separately, so factor this into your budget
- Special experiences should be booked in advance
Frequently asked questions
Does the Pretoria Zoo entrance fee include all animals?
Yes, all standard animal exhibits are included.
Is parking included in the entrance fee?
No, parking is charged separately per vehicle.
Do children need a ticket?
Yes, children require a ticket, but child rates apply.
Can I leave and re-enter on the same ticket?
Re-entry policies are subject to zoo rules on the day and should be confirmed at the gate.
Are special events included in the normal ticket?
No, night events and special tours require separate tickets.
Final takeaway
The Pretoria Zoo entrance fee covers everything you need for a full daytime zoo experience, including animal exhibits, the Aquarium, and the Reptile Park. Extras like parking, special tours, and night events are optional add-ons that you can choose based on your interests.
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