With all the public holidays in May, the Jacaranda City welcomes all wheelchair and mobility scooter visitors. As autumn shades replace the celebrated purple hues, Pretoria will charm everyone with its laid back city vibe, inviting families and friends to get out and about.
According to the author, Elizabeth Lawrence, ‘Everyone must take time to sit and watch the leaves turn.’ At Shoprider, we agree, and the Jacaranda City is definitely the place to appreciate life, as autumn gently whispers to us to slow down a little.
Slow down among the Trees and Flowers
The Pretoria Botanical Gardens are an oasis of pristine beauty. With paved nature trails, a waterfall, a vast array of fragrant flora, manicured lawns and ancient trees, a wheelchair or mobility scooter make it easy to traverse the 76 hectares of natural wonder. A tea garden and the Mokha restaurant will satisfy the hungry and thirsty. Or opt to bring a picnic blanket and your own picnic basket - we can’t think of a better way to spend a lazy autumn day!
Slow down among the Animals
Pretoria is home to one of the eight largest zoos in the world and is one of the most highly-rated. It is also integral to research and conservation with regard to breeding programmes of endangered species. The roar of lions and chatter of monkeys at the National Zoological Gardens will delight young and old as your wheelchair or mobility scooter easily navigate the paved walkways and two bridges over the Apies River which connect the two sections of the zoo.
Slow down among the Performing Artists
Iconic to the Jacaranda City is the State Theatre. No matter how ‘arty farty’ you may or may not be – there is something to please everyone. From music and dance to comedy and drama, each of the theatres offers wheelchair and mobility scooter accessibility and wheelchair seating. So book your tickets and treat yourself to a cultured night on the town.
Slow down among the Politicians
The Jacaranda City is South’s Africa’s Administrative capital and official seat of the national government, hosting the renowned and architecturally impressive Union Buildings. Pretty terraced gardens and panoramic views over the entire city of Pretoria will make you want to sit and simply appreciate the weight of history around you. Although there is wheelchair and mobility scooter accessibility at the top to appreciate the views, there is, unfortunately, no wheelchair access down the stairs to the imposing 9m-tall bronze statue of Nelson Mandela, but that won’t hinder your experience at this National Heritage Site.
No matter what your plans this autumn, at Shoprider we believe you should embrace life, and a wheelchair or mobility scooter should not hinder your experiences and family memories. The Jacaranda City’s vibe never stops, and no matter the season, Coffee shops, artisanal markets, art galleries and shopping centres are scattered across the city for your convenience.
If you happen to be in the Mother City, the following blog will entice you as to Cape Town-based Wheelchair friendly activities. For those looking to experience the City of Gold in their wheelchair or mobility scooter, please read this blog. For the past 30 years, Shoprider South Africa has been one of the leading brands serving the South African market. Visit us to source just the right manual or electric wheelchair, or mobility scooter for your unique lifestyle needs.
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