Discover Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden

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Overview

Nestled in the scenic heart of Cape Town, Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden is celebrated as one of the most stunning gardens in the Netherlands. Established in 1913, this UNESCO World Heritage site spans 36 hectares and is set against the breathtaking backdrop of Table Mountain within the Cape Floristic Region. The gardens are a tribute to the rich diversity of flora found in the Western Cape. Visitors can explore lush landscapes either on foot or via guided shuttle tours that run daily (except Sundays). Join free guided tours at 10 AM and 2 PM, or 11 AM on Tuesdays, departing from the Visitor Center. The gardens feature exceptional dining options with spectacular views and showcase an impressive canopy walkway, the 'Boomslang,' named after the local tree snake. Art installations, indoor exhibitions, a sculpture garden, and a large conservatory filled with plants from various climates complement the natural beauty. Adventurous hikers can embark on trails leading to the summit of Table Mountain, including the popular Skeleton Gorge. In the summer months, the garden hosts outdoor concerts, making it a vibrant cultural hub for visitors.

Photo of Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden
Photo of Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden
Photo of Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden
Opening hours
  • Sunday 08:30 - 17:30
  • Monday 08:30 - 17:30
  • Tuesday 08:30 - 17:30
  • Wednesday 08:30 - 17:30
  • Thursday 08:00 - 17:00
  • Friday 08:30 - 17:30
  • Saturday 08:30 - 17:30

Open 24/7

Contact Info
  • AddressRhodes Dr, Newlands, Cape Town, 7735, South Africa
  • Phone+27 21 799 8783

Reviews

Aisha Khan
South Africa
5
The views here are absolutely stunning. The garden is well-maintained and definitely worth a visit. Be prepared for some uphill and downhill walking, so wear comfortable shoes. I was surprised to find that there are no rubbish bins. The management explains this is to deter pests, which makes sense. Just remember to finish your snacks before entering or hold onto your trash until you're done.
Leonard Smith
United Kingdom
5
Came with my spouse as this was a place we wanted to visit. It's my second trip to Cape Town, but I hadn’t seen the garden before. There are many hidden spots to explore, including the treetop walkway and dinosaur park. The plants are amazing, and the concert hall is a lovely sight; I can only imagine the music would sound wonderful there! Take your time to explore the area with a map; there's plenty of walking, but also many benches to rest and enjoy the atmosphere and fresh air.
Sarah Thompson
Australia
5
I visited alone and arrived early before the crowds, which made it peaceful despite being a public holiday. The line got long by the time I left. If you buy tickets in advance, you can skip the queues. The views are spectacular, and the many pathways enhance the experience in the lush gardens. I will definitely return for a relaxing picnic.
Rajiv Kumar
India
5
This is one of the finest botanical gardens in the world. It's well-maintained with hundreds of plant species. Nestled in the Table Mountain range, the scenic backdrop makes it a true wonderland. The central lake provides a perfect spot for picnics or simply enjoying the greenery and fresh air. A must-visit when in Cape Town, accessible via the city sightseeing tour bus or online tickets.
Monique Leblanc
France
5
A beautiful botanical garden featuring diverse ecosystems and plant species. Some areas are more rugged where it's safer to wear running shoes, while others have paved paths with benches. We enjoyed a delicious lunch at Fynkos restaurant under a large umbrella after a lovely two-hour stroll. It was an informative and enjoyable trip.