Long renowned as one of the world’s finest botanical gardens, Kirstenbosch is also unique for being the first public garden of its kind to feature exclusively indigenous plants. The wealth of plant life native to South Africa makes Kirstenbosch a fascinating attraction. More than 7,000 varieties of plant, from the verdant areas around the cape as well as more arid regions, are housed within the garden’s 88 acres (36 hectares).
Wander the well-paved trails through the Aroma Garden and the Herb Garden and make your way to the Fynbos Walk. Fynbos is the name given to the family of plants exclusive to South Africa, and helpful signs along the way explain what you are seeing. Other areas include the Cycad garden, with various varieties of the ancient, palm-like plant on display, and the greenhouse with a huge baobab tree.
Find out more by taking a guided tour. Free walking tours are run every morning, while tours conducted from golf buggies run every hour for a small charge.
Keep your eye out for the permanent exhibition of Zimbabwean stone sculptures and don’t miss the popular concert series that runs every Sunday during the summer months.
Keen hikers may want to tackle the Skeleton Gorge trail, which leads you from the gardens up the eastern slope of Table Mountain. Alternatively, take one of the less strenuous trails in the 1,300-acre (528-hectare) area of protected land that extends beyond the boundaries of the botanical garden.
When it’s time to refuel, a café and restaurant near the entrance serve snacks, salads and larger meals. It’s free to top up your water bottle from the freshwater spring.
Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden is 8 miles (13 kilometres) from the centre of Cape Town and there is free on-site parking. Public buses from Cape Town also go to and from the garden, which is open daily, with longer opening hours in summer. There is a small charge for entry.
Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens
Visit Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens
Adventure & outdoor
See all 181 activitiesOpens in new tabBig 5 Safari with Lunch at Aquila Private Game Reserve
History & culture
See all 323 activitiesOpens in new tabCape of Good Hope & Boulder Penguins Full-Day Tour from Cape Town
Shows & concerts
See all 7 activitiesOpens in new tab14-Course African Dinner Experience
Cruises & boat tours
See all 46 activitiesOpens in new tabCruise and Dine Dinner / Cape Town: Sunset Champagne Cruise and 3-Course Di...
Water activities
See all 42 activitiesOpens in new tabFrom Hermanus or Cape Town: Shark Cage Diving Experience
Reviews of Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens
5/5 - Excellent
Well worth a visit. Stunning views as the backdrop to the garden is Table mountain. Good refreshment facilities & also saw many people with picnics. We used the voice app app, which gave great commentary during our walk round the garden.
Popular places to visit
Devil's Peak
Rising to the east of the iconic Table Mountain, this soaring peak has accessible hiking trails, challenging climbs and exceptional city views.
Newlands Forest Hiking Trail Access
You can take time to visit Newlands Forest Hiking Trail Access during your travels to Cape Town. Discover the area's mountain views and shops.
Waterworks Museum
You can enjoy some culture when you stop by Waterworks Museum in Cape Town. Stroll along the beautiful beaches in this family-friendly area or seek out the local tours.
Wynberg Park
Enjoy the mountain views and explore Wynberg Park, a lovely green space in Cape Town. Stroll along the seaside or seek out the local tours.
Art in the Forest
You can spend time studying the exhibits at Art in the Forest during your trip to Cape Town. Discover the area's mountain views or seek out its local tours.
Cavendish Square
You can do some window-shopping at Cavendish Square during your stay in Cape Town. Stroll along the seaside or discover the area's mountain views.