Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden – Cape Town’s Living Floral Masterpiece

Highlights of the Garden

The Boomslang Canopy Walkway

A 130-metre curved steel and timber walkway, the Boomslang gives visitors a bird’s-eye view of the gardens, forests, and distant mountain peaks. It winds through treetops and offers spectacular photo opportunities.

Themed Garden Areas

• Fragrance Garden: Elevated plantings designed for maximum sensory enjoyment.

• Protea Garden: South Africa’s national flower in bloom, particularly vivid from late winter to spring.

• Medicinal Garden: Showcases plants used traditionally in South African healing practices.

• Useful Plants Garden: Focused on indigenous species used for food, fibre, and shelter.

• Water-wise Garden: Demonstrates drought-tolerant landscaping ideal for arid climates.

• Cycad Amphitheatre: Features ancient plant species alongside dinosaur sculptures to illustrate evolutionary history.

• Sculpture Garden: Rotating displays of stone and metal art from African artists.

• Van Riebeeck’s Hedge: A surviving portion of the 1660s defensive hedge planted by early Dutch settlers.

Things to Do at Kirstenbosch

• Guided Garden Tours: Available weekdays at 11:00 and 14:00. Learn about the plants and history from trained volunteers.

• Self-Guided Walking Trails: Trails such as Skeleton Gorge and Nursery Ravine link the gardens to Table Mountain.

• Outdoor Summer Concerts: From November to April, Sunday evening concerts bring South Africa’s top music acts to the lawns.

• Open-Air Cinema: Popular movie nights are held in the gardens during the warmer months.

• Art Exhibitions & Craft Markets: Regular events showcase local talent and handmade goods.

Visitor Information

Opening Hours

• Summer (September–March): 08:00 – 19:00

• Winter (April–August): 08:00 – 18:00

View the entrance fees, here.

Accessibility & Amenities

Kirstenbosch is accessible to wheelchairs in most areas, with paved paths and accessible restrooms. Facilities include:

• Restaurants and coffee shops

• Botanical gift and book shops

• Picnic lawns and benches

• Secure parking areas

• Visitor Centre with maps and guides

Getting to Kirstenbosch

By Car: Located about 13 km from Cape Town’s city centre via the M3 highway. Free and secure parking available at all main entrances.

By Bus: The City Sightseeing red bus includes Kirstenbosch as a regular stop on its Cape Town routes.

Research and Conservation

Kirstenbosch plays a leading role in plant research, biodiversity protection, and environmental education. The on-site Compton Herbarium houses over 250,000 plant specimens and contributes to global conservation science.

A Short History of Kirstenbosch

• 1660s: Original boundary hedge planted by Jan van Riebeeck.

• 1800s: The area was used for farming and later managed by Cecil Rhodes.

• 1913: Declared a National Botanical Garden under the leadership of botanist Harold Pearson.

• Today: A flagship site of the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) and a globally respected research, education, and conservation facility.

Best Time to Visit

• Spring (August–November): Fynbos, proteas, and daisies in full bloom.

• Summer (December–February): Concerts, cinema, and extended daylight hours.

• Autumn & Winter (March–July): Cool air and scenic hiking trails.

Travel Tips for Visitors

Plan Your Visit

Kirstenbosch offers more than just a walk in the park—it’s a destination that blends natural beauty with education, sustainability, and South Africa’s rich botanical legacy. Whether you’re looking to relax, learn, or explore, Kirstenbosch provides an unforgettable experience in every season.