Continuously rated as one of the most livable cities in South Africa, Bloemfontein, which is crowned with two capitals, exudes a rural charm. Despite being the capital of Free Town state and countries judicial capital, the city has its head firmly on its shoulder and perhaps it is what inspires travelers to book business class flights to Bloemfontein that commands great importance despite not being as popular as Johannesburg or Cape Town. Also called ‘Bloem’ the city offers a comfortable peek into the rural heart of South Africa that fascinates travelers from different parts of the world.
Useful Information
- The best time to visit Bloemfontein is from September to October and April to May.
- On your visit to the Free State National Botanical Garden you will be able to spot more than 100 species of birdlife.
- The city is considered safe but one should avoid deserted streets during the night.
Visitors often flock to the city which is home to excellent museums, wildlife rich zoo, a Cheetah reserve and several historic landmarks dotting its landscape. The city situated in the heart of the country also boasts to be the birthplace of JRR Tolkien, the renowned author of the lord of the rings. The city has incorporated all the elements of a modern day metropolis without losing its countryside appeal. The literal meaning of the city in local dialect is fountain of flower and city has been given the sobriquet of ‘the city of roses’.
Bloemfontein also commands great history and military significance and presence of various museums and historical landmarks are a fine testimony to this fact. The city has a lot to do for tourists; Museums, gardens, observatory, shopping hubs and plethora of dining activities. Expecting more from this city would be a bit unfair. Those who want a peek into the past should visit its museums that include Anglo Boer War Museum, Choet Visser Rugby Museum, National Museum, Oliewenhuis Art Museum and Presidency Museum. Those who want to shop should visit its malls for shopping branded clothes or visit traditional markets to buy souvenirs.