Top things to do in Bloemfontein
Bloemfontein is compact and easy-going, with history, nature and gardens close to the centre.
- Naval Hill — A hill in the city with the Franklin Game Reserve, where giraffe and antelope roam, and a large statue of Nelson Mandela overlooking the city.
- National Women’s Monument and Anglo-Boer War Museum — A memorial and museum telling the story of the South African War and the women and children who died in concentration camps.
- Oliewenhuis Art Museum — South African art displayed in a former official residence surrounded by gardens.
- King’s Park and Rose Garden — Extensive parkland with a rose garden that gives the city its nickname.
- National Museum — Natural history, fossils and cultural history collections.
- Waaihoek Wesleyan Church — The historic church where the South African Native National Congress, later the ANC, was founded in 1912.
Best time to visit Bloemfontein
Bloemfontein has a semi-arid highveld climate with hot summers, frequent afternoon thunderstorms from November to March, and dry, sunny winters with cold, frosty nights. Autumn (March to May) and spring (September to November) bring warm days and comfortable evenings, ideal for gardens and outdoor sightseeing.
Summer suits travellers who enjoy heat and dramatic storms, while winter days (June to August) are clear and bright but nights can drop below freezing.
Getting from the airport
Bram Fischer International Airport lies east of the city, roughly 10 km from the centre, and the drive usually takes around 15 to 20 minutes. Most travellers connect through Johannesburg or Cape Town.
There is no rail link to the city, so most visitors use taxis, pre-booked shuttles or ride-hailing apps, which operate in Bloemfontein. Car rental desks are available at the terminal and are useful for exploring the Free State.
Where to stay
Most accommodation is in the leafy suburbs west and south of the city centre.
- Westdene and Brandwag — Close to the Loch Logan Waterfront shopping area and restaurants, convenient for most visitors.
- Willows — Guesthouses near the University of the Free State, suited to visiting academics and families.
- Bayswater and northern suburbs — Quiet residential areas near Naval Hill.
- Langenhoven Park — Modern suburb with guesthouses and easy road access to the west.
Travel tips
- Money: Cards are widely accepted; use ATMs inside shopping centres or banks.
- Getting around: Public transport is limited, so use a rental car, taxis or ride-hailing apps.
- Safety: Take normal city precautions, avoid walking alone after dark and keep valuables out of sight in cars.
- Weather: Pack sun protection all year and warm layers for winter nights.
- Language: English is widely understood; a few words of Sesotho or Afrikaans are appreciated.
Frequently asked questions
Which airport serves Bloemfontein?
Bram Fischer International Airport (BFN), east of the city.
How do I get from the airport to the city centre?
Taxis, pre-booked shuttles, ride-hailing apps or a rental car; the drive takes around 15 to 20 minutes.
What currency is used in Bloemfontein?
The South African rand (ZAR).
Do I need a visa to visit South Africa?
Entry requirements depend on your nationality and change from time to time. Check RwandAir’s travel requirements tool or the official government website before you travel.
When is the best time to visit Bloemfontein?
March to May and September to November, when the weather is warm and pleasant.
Why is Bloemfontein called the judicial capital?
South Africa has three capitals, and Bloemfontein is home to the Supreme Court of Appeal, making it the judicial capital.
Updated:
