Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden
Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden things to do, attractions, restaurants, events info and trip planning
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Aaaw what a sight. This place is absolutely beautiful. It's clean and did I mention how beautiful it is. I was so impressed. It would be nice if they had bin stations though. I saw at the end of the day, some people left dirt where they were picnicking. I guess I can't blame them much cos the bins are only outside in the parking lot. We had to walk all the way there to throw away dirt. But that was just a minor glitch. There is so much green, so many trees. Everyone has a tree to sit under. The grass is green and lush and well maintained. I have no words for the Waterfall. It's breathtaking. We took pics at every nook and corner, surrounded by beautiful nature. What a wonderful family fun idea. We even went on the train, which is meat for kids (I think), but I couldn't resist 😂. The ice-cream lady could be a bit friendlier. She served us like we owed her something. But then again, maybe by the time we got there at 11h30, she had had her fill of people and smiling about. She could learn a thing or two from the guy that drove us around on the train. He was cheerful and friendly, he made jokes with us and the kids, he welcomed us onto the train, and thanked us and wished us well when we got off. He gave us the perfect end to our day at Walter Sisulu Botanical gardens. The entry fee to this place is actually not bad. R20 for scholars, R60 for adults, I'm not sure what the pensioners pay, either free or R30. Still a good price. There were security personnel on sight, some people needed to be reminded to put on their masks, and they were reminded respectfully. I would go there again and again.
Cinthia LoggenbergCinthia Loggenberg
20
Absolutely wonderful! I’m giving this a 5 star rating because there’s hardly anywhere safe you can relax in Jhb and this place is it. The gardens are super clean and immaculate. Some great photo opps. There is ample shade for everyone who want to picnic. What I love are two rules of theirs: no alcohol and what litter you bring in, you take out yourself. There are no bins. So ensure to bring some bags to take all your trash out with you. There are staff who can take your picnic luggage for you on push carts for R20 each way. You can take a walk through their market with different assortments of hobbies, crafts and food. A sweet little train will take you from the entrance to the waterfall at R20 one way. We did not eat at the restaurant but it is situated in a lovely shaded area. You are not allowed to picnic at the waterfall area- which is a good rule in my opinion. But the waterfall is not to be missed! I was rather blown away at how beautiful it is. Bring binoculars to try spot the majestic eagles and diverse bird life. I had the luck of spotting a darling little sunbird. I was also lucky enough to be visited by a very confident and friendly tortoise (please always be respectful of the animals). What I also enjoyed is that everyone was respectful of everything. There was no loud obnoxious music or screaming or loathsome behaviour; it’s just a lovely spot to take in and enjoy.
Caddie HartCaddie Hart
50
Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden – Gauteng, South Africa A beautiful park with a picturesque scenery and relaxed atmosphere, what a wonderful place to visit with the family. There is much to do and allot to see as the garden is much more then just a beautiful park. You can take a hike up the mountain or visit the waterfall. There is something for kids too, let your little ones explore the small hill with a 3 way tunnel for crawling through just like the underground tunnels from the Teletubbies. There is a large jungle gym for the kids to climb on. Let them take a walk through the stepping stone adventure walk or visit the fish pond and count the different colours of the very large Koi fish swimming beneath the bridge. It is safe for the kids to run around within eyesight as the park is well maintained and gated. Although I would keep your smaller ones within arms reach as there are many rivers and hills to disappear within. This park is a great place to picnic with the family. You can bring your own food and drink in or eat from the takeaway or the little restaurant nestled amongst the trees. There are water fountains available on the pathway and brightly coloured sculptures of butterflies and other insects strategically placed amongst the flowers to look like they are in their natural habitat. What an amazing park. I for one cannot wait to visit again
Thora GrahamThora Graham
00
The Walter Sisulu National Botanical Gardens is my refuge when I feel boxed in. I make a point of visiting it during every season of the year. The way the landscape changes with the seasons is enchanting. A delight for nature-lovers, the gardens is home to many bird species, reptiles, insects, and arachnids. Go with your binoculars as well as your magnifying glass! The rolling lawns offer ample space for picnics and garden parties, while the hiking trails call out to adventurers big and small. A bird hide gives photographers the opportunity to snap that perfect picture of the lovely bird species. You may even encounter the Black Eagles that are the only known pair nesting in an urban area. Kids can run wild in the well-kept play area with its ever popular tunnel while parents relax under the trees. Nearby, the Black Eagle Restaurant offers friendly service and delicious meals for the whole family. The majestic Witpootjie Waterfall, which is the starting point of the Crocodile River that meanders through the gardens, is the perfect spot to take memorable photographs or even paint a portrait. Whether you reside on the West Rand or only passing through, be sure to open a day in your diary to spend at the Walter Sisulu Botanical Gardens.
Jolandi DreyerJolandi Dreyer
00
Always beautiful. I've come here twice before with people and mostly would picnic in the gardens. This was my first time coming alone and I decided to explore. This place is absolutely beautiful and needs at least 5+ hours to explore fully. I walked around the whole reserve, following all of the pathways to see where they'd lead. There's a quiet jungle gym and garden down one of the pathways, a good place to escape the bustle of the main gardens. If you continue further down that path you will come to a bird lookout. Allow yourself 10 minutes or so to sit and appreciate the various bird families that live in the pond. If you can stay quiet for a few minutes the wildlife comes to life before your eyes. I've never really understood the appeal of bird watching before, but I get it now, very therapeutic. Throughout the reserve you will notice various bird families and hear their melodic chirping. I didn't get a chance to hike up the waterfall, will definitely do it next time. I spent too much time wandering the gardens and pathways, but overall a beautiful day spent in nature. Take note that they only accept cards at the entrance, no cash. R65 for adults.
Lethu NLethu N
240
Great place to spend a day out picnicking, hiking (2.5km mountain trail), or simply doing a sit-down lunch with family or friends at their restaurant. They've been super busy over weekends since the lifting of the harsh Covid lockdown restrictions. Almost to busy for what can be expected for a botanical Park. So, if you're wanting peace and quiet, definitely try and make your outing on a week day instead! They have great gardens, a beautiful natural waterfall, resident Black eagles and a lovely short (but fairly steep) hiking trail, which will take you about 3hrs to complete. (Come prepared with clsed walking shoes, a hat and enough to drink and snack on along the way!) Once you're back from your hike, make sure to go and treat yourself to a waffle and Icecream at the (Eagles view?) restaurant! I know they also boast a music amphitheater where they host some events from time-to-time. They could do with more water points in the gardens, but since you're able to bring in your own packed lunch and non-alcoholic drinks.. that wasn't really a problem. Overall, I was very pleased! It's definitely a must for any nature lover or family outing!
Grant McLellanGrant McLellan
40
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