The Union Buildings (🗺️)
Because the Union Buildings occupy one of the highest points in Pretoria, they also host the ideal lookout point over the city. The views from the garden are immaculate year-round, but they get even more breathtaking with every Jacaranda tree that pops into colour.
The public gardens out front of the Buildings are well-kept and a favourite of locals and tourists alike. Here, you can explore the gardens, see the iconic Nelson Mandela statue, and witness the beauty of Jacaranda season in all its glory.
The grounds are open on weekdays from 07:00 to 18:00. Don’t miss this view!
Brooklyn (🗺️)
For a closer look at the Jacaranda blooms, this residential area hosts hundreds of old trees on lush sidewalks. The Jacarandas’ crowns reach across the streets to form dense purple canopies and of course, the perfect photo-op.
The area is between Justice Mahomed Street and Lynnwood Road, however, it’s surprisingly quiet on these streets. With relatively few cars passing by, you can drive slowly and take it all in, or park the car and take a stroll!
Some of the most beautifully-lined streets in this suburb include Brooks, Anderson, Murray, and Mackenzie.
Muckleneuk (🗺️)
Other high-lying viewpoints for seeing Jacaranda trees in Pretoria are located on Leyds Street and Bourke Street near the Embassy of Finland in Muckleneuk. Here, the city centre peeks out over the trees and creates an illusion of a floating city.
Driving down the steep roads is like diving into a Jacaranda sea.
From here, you can complete the trip less than five minutes away with a visit to Magnolia Dell. This park has a love bridge and a restaurant surrounded by more trees and nature.
Exclusive Local Tip: Find the White Jacarandas (🗺️)
You read that right! There is such a thing as a white Jacaranda and Pretoria is home to the only street in the country where they grow relatively densely!
White Jacarandas are scattered along Herbert Baker Street and their pure-white flowers are a uniquely rare sight. Stop by this street to see the rarity and other classic purple Jacarandas.
Herbert Baker Street lies within a gated residential area and is safe to walk or take a scenic drive on.
Looking for more things to do in Pretoria? Read Beginner-Friendly Hiking Trails in Pretoria.
We would love to hear from you! Leave a comment and let us know your favourite spot for Jacaranda sightings in Pretoria.
