Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden in Cape Town is ranked as one of the best gardens, not only in South Africa, but in the world.
The garden is located along the eastern slopes of Table Mountain and covers 528 hectares, hosting a diverse array of indigenous fauna and flora.
If you want a true taste of Cape Town’s natural splendour, Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden is a must-visit.
Getting to know Kirstenbosch
Kirstenbosch holds a rich history that dates back to the Stone Age. The land has been passed on through various families, but notably, when Cecil John Rhodes purchased it in 1895, his intention was reportedly to turn it into a botanical garden. When he passed away in 1902, he left Kirstenbosch to the government.
Professor Harold Pearson, the first director of Kirstenbosch Gardens, was also a pioneer behind its start. He was known for assessing the land in 1911 for the purposes of turning it into a botanical garden. And in 1913, Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens were officially established.
It wasn’t always plain sailing during the gardens’ establishment. The property was in disarray during the early years, and it took many more years to get it into order. But over time, from weeds, overgrowths, and yes, pigs, the garden became a beautifully cultivated haven, spanning 36 hectares of the 528.
Kirstenbosch has recently been listed as one of the Top 25 gardens in the world in the New York Times “T25” series, “The 25 Gardens You Must See”. They were selected by “six horticultural experts”. It has also been honoured as the best botanical garden in Africa.
Visiting Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden
Kirstenbosch is open to visitors throughout the year and offers guided tours and numerous events, including musical concerts and art exhibitions. There are also restaurants where you can dine and relax, or grab a coffee for a walk along one of the paths. There are several trails with varying difficulty levels, suited to walking and hiking. It is recommended to read the guides and rules before visiting Kirstenbosch.
Have you visited Kirstenbosch?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 11.
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