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9 local botanical gardens to explore

These are the botanical gardens you’ll want to add to your sightseeing list on your next road trip. By Keith Bain

NOTE: SANBI entry fees are for South African adults and children aged 6 to 17; younger children enter free. Proof of identity may be required to qualify for SA resident rates.

  1. Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden (Cape Town)

At the foot of Table Mountain, it’s famed for its indigenous trees, cycads and fynbos – plus the wonderful walking trails, views and the Boomslang canopy walkway. Try to see it in spring (September to November) for the full impact of the blooms. 021 799 8783, sanbi.org, R100/R40

 

 

  1. Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden (Roodepoort)

Lots of indigenous trees, succulents, a huge aloe collection and a waterfall. Best seen between September and February for the most vibrant floral displays. 086 100 1278, sanbi.org, R85/R25 

 

  1. Durban Botanic Gardens

Africa’s oldest surviving botanical garden was established in 1849, and is good all year round, has themed gardens, a heritage trail, an orchid house, a cycad collection and hosts lots of events. 031 322 4021, durbanbotanicgardens.org.za, usually free

 

 

  1. Pretoria National Botanical Garden

Notable for its indigenous South African plants, particularly cycads, aloes and medicinal plants, it’s best in spring and summer (September to February) when many flowers are in bloom. 012 843 5071, sanbi.org, R60/R20

 

  1. Free State National Botanical Garden (Bloemfontein)

Outside the city, in the valley between the koppies, it includes a medicinal garden, succulent garden, and an arboretum. And there are year-round events. 051 436 3530, sanbi.org, R50/R20

 

  1. Hantam National Botanical Garden (Nieuwoudtville)

Famous for its springtime wildflower displays and for its showcasing of the region’s botanical biodiversity. Best seen during spring (August to October) when its wildflowers are in bloom. 027 218 1200, sanbi.org, R50/R15

 

  1. Karoo Desert National Botanical Garden (Worcester)

In the semi-arid Karoo region, it features a variety of succulents, desert-adapted plants and a quiver tree forest. Best visited August through October for its colourful blooms. 023 347 0785, sanbi.org, R50/R15 

 

 

  1. Lowveld National Botanical Garden (Nelspruit)

Showcases the lush subtropical vegetation – cycads, ferns, and water-loving species. There are walking trails, a riverine forest and a suspension bridge. It’s at its greenest in summer. 013 752 5531, sanbi.org. R55/R20

 

  1. Kwelera National Botanical Garden (East London)

A unique display of indigenous coastal dune vegetation, including dune forests, aloes and coastal grasslands. Visit September through February, when most flowers are in bloom. 043 742 4450, sanbi.org, R50/R20