Pretoria National Botanical Garden Travel Guide: Top Sights in South

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Pretoria National Botanical Garden- Travel Tips What to See, How to Plan & Tours: Educational & Science; South Africa; 5 Reviews

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Suggested Duration: 4 hours

The Pretoria National Botanical Garden, a dynamic synthesis of South Africa's rich flora and meticulous conservation efforts, stands prominently in the eastern precincts of Pretoria, Gauteng. Spanning 76 hectares and originally launched in 1946, this verdant expanse not only serves as the vibrant epicenter for the South African National Biodiversity Institute but also marks a legacy of botanical research and education that dates back over seven decades. The garden's strategic design harnesses the natural topology, with a central rocky ridge dictating the diverse ecological zones—from the meticulously curated cycad and succulent gardens in the west to the less tampered eastern arboretum and natural grasslands. Highlights include the National Herbarium and the historic Mary Gunn Library, repositories of immense botanical knowledge and research. Furthermore, the integration of practical conservation programs, such as the Working for Wetlands and Grassland Programmes, into its day-to-day operations underscores the garden's role in preserving South Africa's environmental heritage. With amenities like a restaurant and concert stage against the backdrop of an artificial waterfall, the garden offers a multifaceted experience that appeals to both the casual visitor and the discerning researcher.

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Reviews of Pretoria National Botanical Garden

Chantélle Cridland (Lady Frostine)

5
Reviewed: 2024-08-18

Such a beautiful Botanical Garden! It's well tended and cared for and kept extremely clean. It has a very diverse collection of trees, plants and flowers and even has a little plant history museum with lots of interesting information on what some of the plants were used for older times. There's a little waterfall and a few animals that can be spotted on your walk through the gardens. And if you feel like a break and some refreshments (if you didn't bring your own), there's a restaurant. Certain functions can be hosted there, but there's a list of items that's prohibited inside the premises, so make sure to double check on that beforehand.
violet Makgatho

3
Reviewed: 2024-06-20

Different kinds of plants. The place is so peaceful and nice for picnics and celebrations. There is also nice food at the restaurant. Hiking, waterfall and alcohol is allowed in the premises.
Jewel Ok

5
Reviewed: 2024-06-08

Definitely worth visiting. This park has a lovely vibe and energy. The waterfall is so calming. Free secure parking. Labelled plants and a few animals. No dogs allowed. I will definitely visit again. Good for picnics and there is a restaurant on site.
Victor Wang

5
Reviewed: 2024-04-01

Had a great time strolling through the gardens on a weekday afternoon. Easy access with plenty of safe parking. Good variety of plants although it wasn't too colorful when we went in early March. Lots of green however which is a nice departure from the city landscape. Staff is super friendly and helpful and the entrance fees are extremely cheap. The waterfall and a nice easy hike with some elevation is a great way to breakup the flat areas with the hilly areas.
Walter Parker

5
Reviewed: 2024-03-16

Glad I made the effort to come to the family picnic day that the school has.The environment is great and it is doing me good to be out in the open air. I can hear the traffic on the highway, but with these conditions it is soothing background "music".