THE AIRFORCE - THE MUSEUM
The SAAF Museum at Swartkop is the largest military aviation museum in South Africa. The museum uses both chronological and subjective layouts to tell the exciting story of aviation development from the days of the Paterson Aviation School at Kimberley to modern-day jets. Exhibits include a variety of aircraft and missiles, as well as family-orientated and historically interesting aeronautical displays.
All exhibits and displays are well identified to permit touring without guides. Photography is encouraged, although flash equipment will be required for most of the interior shots.
A gift shop selling books, models and posters is operated by the Friends of the SAAF Museum and all profits are used to assist the Museum. Limited refreshments are available, but food is not allowed in the display halls. Facilities for the handicapped include special parking, ramps and restroom facilities.
The Library holds a large selection of aviation related books, refrences and research material, technical manuals, aviation related magazines, logbooks and photographs. These reference materials are available to serious researchers on weekdays from 09h00 to 15h30 by prior appointment. A copy service is available at a nominal fee. Appointments may be arranged by phoning (+27) 12 351-2318. Visiting hours
Visiting hours
The Museum is open weekdays from 08h30 to 16h00 and on Saturday from 10h00 to 15h30. The Museum is closed on Sundays, Christmas Day and New Years Day. Phone prior to visiting on other public holidays.
Location
By Car:
From the Ben Schoeman Highway (M1/R28) from Johannesburg or Pretoria, take the Trichardt Road/Valhalla off-ramp. Turn right at theT-junction (direction Valhalla) and proceed on the road to Thaba Tswane (formerly Voortrekkerhoogte). Continue up the hill past the SAAF Memorial. At the first traffic light turn left into Old Johannesburg/Pretoria Road (R101). The entrance to the Museum is situated about 500m down on the left.
By Public Transport:
From Pretoria: Take the Valhalla bus from Church Square. From Johannesburg: Take the Inter-City bus or train to Pretoria and then the Valhalla bus.
Contact details
Postal address: SAAF Museum, Swartkop, PO Valhalla, 0137, South Africa
Telephone: (+27) 12 351-9111 / Fax: (+27) 12 351-2346
