The garden was established in 1913 to protect the indigenous flora of South Africa.
It is home to the 'Extinct in the wild' flora, including the Kirstenbosch cycad (Encephalartos cycadifolius).
The garden contains a statue of Cecil Rhodes, whose estate the land originally comprised.
The canopy walkway, locally known as 'The Boomslang', mimics the skeleton of a snake.
Over 7,000 species of plants are grown and studied within the garden boundaries.
The garden holds no exotic plant species, strictly maintaining indigenous integrity.
The Lady Anne Barnard’s bath is located on the property, a historical stone structure dating back to the late 18th century.
The garden supports a diverse array of bird species, including the Cape Sugarbird and Orange-breasted Sunbird.
Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden is the first botanic garden in the world to be included within a UNESCO World Heritage Site, covering 528 hectares of the Cape Floristic Region. It is located on the eastern slopes of Table Mountain in Cape Town, South Africa. The garden focuses exclusively on the cultivation of indigenous South African plants. It features the Centenary Tree Canopy Walkway, a 130-meter-long curved steel structure that rises above the forest floor. The grounds include a conservatory housing plants from various South African biomes, such as the Karoo and the Fynbos. It acts as the gateway to the Skeleton Gorge and Nursery Ravine hiking trails leading to the top of Table Mountain. The garden serves as a research facility for the South African National Biodiversity Institute. It is part of the larger Table Mountain National Park protected area.
The highest point of the Centenary Tree Canopy Walkway looking toward the mountain peaks.
Carry a windbreaker or light jacket as weather conditions on the mountain slopes change rapidly.
Bring plenty of water, as the steeper sections of the garden involve significant inclines.
Check the official website for scheduled outdoor Sunday sunset concerts during summer months.
Attempting to hike to the top of Table Mountain without adequate water or proper footwear.
Open daily throughout the year, including public holidays.
Walking on flower beds is strictly prohibited; keep to paved or designated gravel paths.
