20 Must-Do Things in Bloemfontein: Your Ultimate City Guide

Are you an art lover looking for a unique and inspiring experience during your visit to Bloemfontein? Then the Oliewenhuis Art Museum is just the place for you! This beautiful museum is housed in an impressive historic building and houses an extensive collection of South African art, including paintings, sculptures, and ceramics. Take a guided tour to learn more about the history and significance of the works, or simply explore on your own.

Nestled under tall trees and surrounded by tranquil gardens lies De Oude Kraal Country Estate, a hidden gem in the heart of Bloemfontein. If you are looking for a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life, this rural oasis is the perfect choice for you. The property offers luxurious accommodations with a touch of old-world charm, Michelin-starred cuisine, and breathtaking views of the surrounding hills. Don't miss the opportunity to discover the property's secret rose garden and treat yourself to a treatment at the wellness center. For those who want to explore even more, the nearby Oliewenhuis art museum is just a stone's throw away. Come and experience a unique peace and relaxation!

In the midst of the vibrant city of Bloemfontein lies the stunning Free State National Botanical Garden. With its lush greenery, tranquil waterfalls and picturesque landscapes, it is a nature lover's paradise. Take a leisurely stroll or a refreshing jog through the diverse flora and fauna and discover the many birds and insects that call this garden home. Don't miss the medicinal plant garden and the orchid house, two of the many highlights of this garden. Afterwards, you can refresh yourself at the on-site café or have a picnic with your loved ones. The nearby Oliewenhuis art museum is also worth a visit.

When you visit Bloemfontein, the Nelson Mandela statue is a must-see. This impressive statue is dedicated to one of the most famous figures in South African history and is a powerful symbol of the struggle for freedom and equality that Mandela exemplified throughout his life. The statue is located in the city center, just a stone's throw from the historic Supreme Court building and the Anglo-Boer War Museum. I recommend visiting the statue at night when it is beautifully illuminated for an unforgettable experience.

The Bloemfontein National Museum is a must-see for anyone interested in the fascinating history and culture of South Africa. Here you will find an impressive collection of exhibits that show everything from the natural history of the region to the cultural heritage of the people. Plus, the museum is housed in a beautiful building that is worth a visit in itself. And if you're hungry after your visit, be sure to stop by the museum café for a cup of coffee and a slice of delicious cake. The museum is very close to other attractions worth visiting, such as the Oliewenhuis Art Museum.

Experience the wonder of African wildlife at Zanchieta Wildlife Rescue in Bloemfontein! As a sanctuary for injured and orphaned animals, you will have the opportunity to see lions, cheetahs and many other exotic animals up close. Listen to stories about each animal's unique situation and learn how they were rescued by the dedicated staff. For a truly special experience, book a sunrise or sunset safari tour.

A visit to the "Die Nasionale Vrouemonument" in Bloemfontein is an absolute must for anyone traveling to South Africa. The monument is a beautiful tribute to the pioneer women who fought for freedom during the Anglo-Boer War and is steeped in history. Located on the same hill as the Free State National Botanical Gardens, the monument offers breathtaking views of Bloemfontein from all angles. Don't forget to take a look at the on-site museum and library, both of which house a wealth of fascinating information and artifacts. All in all, the Nasionale Vrouemonument is a truly breathtaking landmark that will make you feel inspired by the strength of those who came before us.

Discover one of the most beautiful places in Bloemfontein, the Loch Logan Waterfront! Whether you want to explore the incredible selection of stores, enjoy the delicious restaurant offerings, or admire the breathtaking views of the waterfront, this destination has something for everyone. Plus, locals love coming here for events, musical performances, and relaxing boat rides along the canals.

If you want to get a real taste of the South African wilderness during your stay in Bloemfontein, Naval Hill Nature Reserve is a must-see. One of the city's most popular natural attractions, this stunning reserve offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and a variety of fascinating wildlife to spot. If you're lucky, you may even spot some of the park's resident giraffes roaming around.

If you really want to experience the local culture of Bloemfontein, be sure to visit the Bloemfontein Farmers Market, also known as Boere Mark. This open-air market is an incredible hub for fresh produce, homemade crafts and delicious food stalls. Here you can meet the friendly locals and sample traditional South African dishes while shopping for souvenirs and unique gifts.

Get ready for an unforgettable cosmic experience at the Naval Hill Planetarium in Bloemfontein! This state-of-the-art facility offers a spectacular high-definition experience of the stars, planets, galaxies and other celestial bodies through an advanced projection system. You'll be transported into space and able to explore the mysteries of the universe like never before. Don't forget to visit the nearby Nelson Mandela statue and enjoy the breathtaking panoramic view of Bloemfontein from the top of the hill. There is so much to see and explore that a visit to the planetarium is a must for any traveler with an interest in science and astronomy.

If you are a nature and wildlife lover, then Bagamoya Wildlife Estate in Bloemfontein is a must visit! This incredible wildlife reserve offers a unique and unforgettable experience that will take you on an exciting game drive amidst a breathtaking natural landscape. Here you can spot a variety of wildlife including buffalo, giraffe, zebra and even cheetah. The knowledgeable guides will give you insider information about the wildlife and their habits, making your excursion even more interesting. After the game drive, you can relax and enjoy a delicious meal at the on-site restaurant. And if you want to experience even more adventure, don't miss the nearby Cheetah Experience!

Are you a nature lover looking for a quiet getaway in the middle of bustling Bloemfontein? Look no further than Seven Dams! This series of interconnected dams provides a stunning backdrop for a variety of outdoor activities, from hiking and fishing to bird watching and picnicking.

Looking for a unique experience in Bloemfontein? Then the South African Armour Museum is the place for you! This fascinating museum showcases the history of armored warfare in South Africa and has an impressive collection of tanks, armored cars and artillery pieces. You can see and touch the exhibits while learning about the important role they played in South African history.

If you're looking for a unique and authentic South African dining experience, Innie Skuur in Bloemfontein is the place to be! This cozy and inviting eatery serves hearty portions of traditional Afrikaans dishes like lamb chops, boerewors (sausages), and melktert (milk cake). What makes Innie Skuur special, however, is its charming atmosphere with vintage decor and live music on weekends. Plus, the staff is incredibly friendly and makes you feel like part of the family.

Have you ever seen a giant white horse made entirely of stones? At the Bloemfontein White Horse you can do just that! This impressive landmark was built in the early 1900s and has since become one of the most popular tourist attractions in Bloemfontein. It's perfect for a quick photo op, and if you're feeling adventurous, you can even climb to the top for a breathtaking view of the city. Plus, the nearby Franklin Game Reserve is worth a visit if you want to see some of Africa's finest wildlife up close. Don't miss out on these hidden gems in Bloemfontein!

Nestled in a picturesque landscape of rolling hills and sprawling grasslands, Visarend Kampterrein is a hidden gem that promises visitors an unforgettable nature experience in Bloemfontein. The campsite offers a range of exciting activities that will prove to be a highlight of your trip to South Africa, including hiking, bird watching, fishing and mountain biking. With the lush forest in the background, you will be awakened in the morning by the chirping of birds. An added bonus is that Tempe Golf Course, one of the best golf courses in the country, is just a stone's throw away and you can make your trip even more exciting with a side trip there.