Walter Sisulu National Botanical Gardens

Set against cliffs and waterfall, the Walter Sisulu National Botanical Gardens (although previously called the Witwatersrand National Botanical Gardens) was founded in 1982.

The garden covers almost 3km² of land, consisting of both landscaped and natural veld areas. Over 600 naturally occurring plant species thrive here as a result of the diverse habitat available. The Garden also protects a variety of wildlife, with mammals including small antelope and jackal inhabiting the area. This said, most of the mammals can only be spotted in the early morning and late afternoon due to their nocturnal shenanigans.

There are 220 recorded bird species in the Garden and a breeding pair of black African Eagles nest on the cliffs alongside the Witpoortjie waterfall.

Several short walks run through the gardens and the surrounding natural areas, and a convenient boardwalk takes you through the wetland area. During spring a number of Orange River lilies can be found bathing here, one of the simpler and more intimate sites on offer.

The Garden consists of semi-wild areas, a cycad garden, succulant rockery, forest, and wetlands. There are also a series of ponds and stream which flow past the restaurant, making for a lovely breakfast or lunch setting.

The Garden opens daily from 08:00 to 18:00, but there is no entry from 17:00.

Entrance fees vary for adults and students

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