Visit the Durban Botanical Gardens to walk amid magnificent trees and discover exotic plants while you enjoy a respite from Durban’s busy urban life. Sample a traditional high tea, attend live music events and spot butterflies, birds and reptiles. Established in 1849 as an experimental site for cultivating tropical plants, today the Durban Botanical Gardens has a collection of over 8,000 plants and is one of Africa’s oldest botanic gardens.
Paved tree-lined trails weave around the gardens, making it a great place to explore on foot. Look for signposts pointing in the direction of the various themed areas. See a collection of rare cycads and marvel at the fascinating display of multicolored orchids in the Orchid House. Admire imposing palm trees along the Palm Walk and enjoy sweeping views of the gardens from the Fern Dell. Don’t miss the sculpture collection at the Garden of Senses.
Look for myriad wildlife, including frogs, monkeys, turtles and fluttering butterflies. Spot numerous birds including herons and pelicans. Go to the Tea Garden to enjoy a British-style high tea of freshly baked scones and crumpets with jams and cream. Alternatively, bring your own food and use the designated picnic areas.
Time your visit to coincide with one of the many outdoor concerts that take place at the gardens’ amphitheatre and lake. Watch African bands, philharmonic orchestras and jazz musicians, among other acts. Throughout December the gardens host the Carols by Candlelight concert series, with performances by well-known bands such as the Soweto Gospel Choir.
Located in the Berea district, the gardens are less than a 10-minute drive from downtown Durban. A regular shuttle bus connects the gardens with the city centre. For those arriving by car, use the large, free parking lot outside the gardens’ main entrance.
The Durban Botanical Gardens are open daily, except for select public holidays. Admission is free. Visit from November to February to see the greatest number of trees and plants in full bloom. Reserve a guided tour before your visit. Find the complete opening hours, tour information and event schedule on the gardens’ official website.
