Digital Nomad in Pretoria, South Africa: The full guide

Introduction

Welcome to The Journey Seeker! Find out all about Digital nomad in Pretoria, South Africa!

Are you tired of the same old 9-5 grind in your hometown? Are you ready for a change of scenery and a chance to work remotely in a new and exciting location? Well, pack your bags and get ready to become a digital nomad in Pretoria, South Africa!

But wait, you might be wondering: “Why Pretoria, of all places?” Well, let me tell you a little joke to put things in perspective:

Why was the math book sad? Because it had too many problems, but it found solace in the fact that at least it wasn’t a digital nomad trying to find a reliable WiFi connection in Pretoria.

Atmosphere / Vibes

7 Elephants Walking Beside Body of Water during Daytime
Photo by Pixabay

Pretoria may not have the fastest WiFi speeds (yet), but it more than makes up for it with its vibrant and welcoming atmosphere. Located in the northern part of Gauteng province, Pretoria is known for its rich history, cultural diversity, and stunning natural surroundings. From the bustling streets of the city center to the peaceful neighborhoods and parks, there is something for everyone in this diverse and lively city.

Weather throughout the year

Brown Monkey Illustration in Pretoria, South Africa.
Photo by Pixabay

One of the great things about living in Pretoria is the pleasant weather throughout the year. With an average temperature of about 22°C (72°F), you can enjoy mild and sunny days with a refreshing breeze, even during the hottest months of the year. During the winter months (June to August), temperatures can drop to as low as 7°C (45°F) at night, so be sure to pack some warm clothes if you’re visiting during this time.

7 reasons why this is the best place for Digital Nomads

Close-up Photography of Brown Lion in Pretoria, South Africa.
Photo by Pixabay
  • Affordable cost of living: Compared to other major cities in South Africa, Pretoria has a relatively low cost of living, which makes it a great option for digital nomads on a budget. You can find affordable accommodation, transportation, and food options throughout the city.
  • Plenty of coworking spaces: If you need a place to work outside of your accommodation, Pretoria has a growing number of coworking spaces that offer a comfortable and productive environment. Some popular options include The Foundry, The Hangar, and The Grid.
  • Easy access to other major cities: Pretoria is located just a short drive from Johannesburg and other major cities in South Africa, making it easy to explore and take day trips to other parts of the country. The city is also well-connected by air, with regular flights to major cities in South Africa and around the world.
  • Rich cultural heritage: Pretoria is home to a diverse and vibrant community, with a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its art, music, and food. Whether you’re exploring the city’s museums and galleries, trying new dishes at local restaurants, or enjoying a night out at a music venue, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture.
  • Beautiful natural surroundings: Pretoria is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, with a number of parks, reserves, and nature trails to explore. The city is also located just a short drive from the Magaliesberg mountain range, where you can enjoy hiking, rock climbing, and other outdoor activities.
  • Friendly and Supportive community: The digital nomad community in Pretoria is growing and there are many online groups and meetups where you can connect with other remote workers and exchange tips and advice. You’ll find a welcoming and supportive group of like-minded individuals who are all working towards similar goals.
  • High-quality healthcare: South Africa has a well-developed healthcare system, and Pretoria is home to a number of top-quality hospitals and clinics. If you’re living in the city as a digital nomad, you can rest assured that you’ll have access to quality healthcare when you need it.

Top 8 Things to do

From above of sunlit aged paper world map with continents countries and oceans
Photo by Nothing Ahead
  • Visit the Pretoria National Botanical Garden: This beautiful garden is home to a wide variety of plants and flowers, as well as a number of walking trails and picnic areas. It’s a great place to relax and unwind after a busy day of work.
  • Explore the Union Buildings: These iconic buildings are the seat of the South African government and offer breathtaking views of the city. Take a guided tour to learn more about the history and architecture of the buildings.
  • Try a traditional South African braai: A braai is a traditional South African barbecue, and Pretoria has no shortage of restaurants and street vendors serving up delicious braaied meats and sides. It’s a must-try for any digital nomad in the city!
  • Visit the Freedom Park: This striking monument pays tribute to the struggle for freedom and democracy in South Africa. It’s a powerful and moving place to visit, and offers beautiful views of the city from its hilltop location.
  • Go on a day trip to the Magaliesberg: As mentioned earlier, the Magaliesberg mountain range is just a short drive from Pretoria and offers a range of outdoor activities and breathtaking views. Whether you prefer hiking, rock climbing, or simply enjoying a picnic with a view, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful region.
  • Explore the local craft beer scene: South Africa is known for its craft beer, and Pretoria has a number of breweries and taprooms where you can sample a wide range of local brews. It’s a great way to unwind and socialize with other digital nomads and locals.
  • Visit the Pretoria Art Museum: This museum is home to a wide range of South African and international art, and is a must-visit for any art lover in the city. It’s a great place to spend a few hours on a rainy day or to get some inspiration for your own work.
  • Take a walk through the Pretoria Zoo: The Pretoria Zoo is home to a wide variety of animals, including lions, giraffes, elephants, and more. It’s a great place to spend a few hours exploring and learning about different species.

Conclusion

 Two Adorable Penguins
Photo by Tom D’Arby

As you can see, Pretoria is a vibrant and welcoming city that has a lot to offer digital nomads. From its affordable cost of living and rich cultural heritage to its beautiful natural surroundings and supportive community, it’s a great place to work and live as a digital nomad. So why not give it a try and see for yourself all that Pretoria has to offer?


Wanna find out more about Pretoria than just digital nomads? Here is another blog post about the top 14 things to do in Pretoria

Did you like this post? Have a look at our other blog posts about living in South Africa, such as East London, Cape Town or Nelspruit.