Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden
One of the world's great botanical gardens — where fynbos meets Afromontane forest on Table Mountain's slopes
528 hectares
Garden Size
7,000+
Plant Species
1913
Founded
~R220 adults
Entry Fee
Nov–Mar Sundays
Concert Season
15 min
Distance from CBD
Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden is consistently voted one of the top botanical gardens in the world, set against the eastern slopes of Table Mountain in a natural amphitheatre of biodiversity. Celebrating its 110th anniversary, the 528-hectare estate showcases the extraordinary Cape Floral Kingdom — the richest plant kingdom on Earth per square metre. The famous Boomslang Tree Canopy Walkway, summer sunset concerts, and trails leading to the Table Mountain summit make Kirstenbosch far more than a garden.
Boomslang Tree Canopy Walkway
The Boomslang ("tree snake" in Afrikaans) is a sinuous steel-and-timber walkway that curves and dips through the treetops of the Arboretum, rising 12 metres above the forest floor. Designed by Mark Thomas Architects, it offers a unique bird's-eye view of the garden, the city, and the ocean beyond. It's become one of Cape Town's most photographed landmarks since opening in 2014.
Summer Sunset Concerts
Every Sunday from November to March, Kirstenbosch hosts its legendary Summer Sunset Concerts on the Great Lawn. Pack a picnic, a bottle of local wine, and a blanket, then settle in for live music as the sun sets behind Table Mountain. The lineup features a mix of South African and international artists — from Freshlyground to Jimmy Cliff. It's a quintessential Cape Town experience.
Hiking to Table Mountain
Kirstenbosch is the starting point for the Skeleton Gorge and Nursery Ravine hiking trails to the top of Table Mountain. Skeleton Gorge (3–4 hours one way) winds through ancient Afromontane forest with giant yellowwood trees, stream crossings, and wooden ladders. The Contour Path offers an easier walk along the mountain's lower slopes with stunning views across the garden and the Cape Flats.
Best Time to Visit
September to November for spring wildflower displays and protea blooms. November to March for Summer Sunset Concerts (Sundays). The garden is beautiful year-round — winter brings green lawns and misty mountain atmosphere.
Travel Tips
- ✦Arrive early (8am) for the best light and fewest crowds
- ✦The Boomslang walkway is included in garden entry — no extra charge
- ✦Bring a picnic and blanket for the sunset concerts (gates open 4pm)
- ✦Comfortable walking shoes are essential — the garden is hilly with gravel paths
- ✦The on-site Moyo restaurant and Kirstenbosch Tea Room serve excellent food
Top Tours & Experiences — Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden
Handpicked tours that include or are near Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden. All with expert local guides and hotel pickup.
Frequently Asked Questions — Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden
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