The National Zoological Garden of South Africa, also known as The Pretoria Zoo, is a vast zoo located within the city limits. Founded by J. W. B. Gunning in 1899, it has since grown to become one of the world's largest zoos. The zoo sits on land that was once part of President Stephanus Schoeman’s property and later acquired by the state in 1895.

The landscape is divided into two distinct areas by the Apies River, with pathways winding through both flat and hilly terrain. Visitors can explore over 6 kilometres of paths, or opt to rent a golf cart for easier navigation. A cable car connects the upper hillside area with the entrance at the bottom.

The zoo houses an array of exhibits featuring various species, including African penguins, Cape fur seals, leopards, and flamingoes. Central areas are dedicated to larger animals such as giraffes, hippos, and rhinos, while smaller enclosures house primates and reptiles. In 2024, the zoo transferred its last elephant to a wildlife reserve in response to animal rights concerns.