South Africa has a number of beautiful gardens, both natural and horticultural, that can be experienced through an enchanting tour along the Garden Route. There are many beautiful accommodation options to choose from along the way.
Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens
Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens are on the Table Mountain slopes. It is delightful to experience the beauty of this mostly natural park, with its charming mountain paths, home to the famous fynbos plants, native to South Africa. With separate gardens for medicinal, fragrant, water-wise and protea plants, it can be quite an educational trip.
Harold Porter National Botanical Garden
Imagine a beautiful sea on one side, mountain slopes on the other, and land dotted with clear streams and beautiful flora. You would have visualised the Harold Porter National Botanical Garden. Important native plants– sugar bushes, the heats, the cape seeds and the cone bushes are found in abundance in the garden. It is very easy to explore this estate all by yourself, taking time to enjoy whatever catches your eye.
The Caledon Wild Flower Garden
The Caledon Wild Flower Garden is easily one of South Africa’s oldest public gardens. The area is also a protected nature reserve.
You will love the colourful splendour of the Namaqualand daisies, and the 10 km walking trail to the famous window rock.
The Karoo Desert National Botanical Garden
Succulents store water in their leaves, roots and stems and you can see them in abundance at Karoo Desert National Botanical Garden. Come spring, and Karoo is abloom in a riot of colours. You will get to see the vygie plant in full bloom. Glimpses of bird life, and the stealthy darts of several small mammals will delight you.
Bustani la Mawe
Bustani la Mawe is situated in Hout Bay. Judy Conway and Dennis Genders painstakingly created it, clearing the bush and moving rocks to do so. The thriving gardens of today, with beautiful fynbos, birdlife and animal life are a beautiful haven.
The beauty of South Africa's garden route is indescribable. With flowers, birds and mammals, beautiful trails and breathtaking views you are sure to enjoy every bit of this amazing adventure!
