experience

Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden

The site was bequeathed to the state by Cecil Rhodes in and the gardens were established to preserve the country's indigenous flora - one of the first botanical gardens in the world with this mission. The flowers, shrubs, and trees are arranged so that a show of blossoms and colour brightens the gardens throughout the year. Don't miss the proteas, the scented garden; the impressive collection of cycads; the Sculpture Garden, and the Botanical Society Conservatory, a custom-built greenhouse with plants from arid regions. Well-marked trails thread through the wooded slopes, and the Tree Canopy Walkway provides panoramic views across the mountain-backed gardens. One of the trails leads through a ravine to the summit of Table Mountain.