Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens

Kirstenbosch Gardens is a world famous botanical garden that is "breathtaking" and "outrageously beautiful" according to two guidebooks on South Africa. Kirstenbosch Flowers

The gardens are nestled against the slopes of Table Mountain, which is part of what makes the setting so lovely. The slopes are very steep and rugged, creating an amazing backdrop.

There are over 22000 indigenous plants in the garden, many of which are found only in the Cape Peninsula. The Peninsula is the smallest of the world's six floral kingdoms, and has one of the highest concentrations of different plant species anywhere. The special vegetation of the region is called "fynbos" and includes the protea. South Africa's national flower is just one of the thousands of beautiful, unique plants to see at Kirstenbosch.

Although the gardens are planted, they seem completely natural. They blend seamlessly with the wild mountain vegetation.

Birds of all sorts can be seen here. These include brilliant green and red sugarbirds (which pollinate the flowers), owls (and Eurocentres students!), and guinea fowl.

Kirstenbosch is a perfect place to admire the plants and views - or to lie on the grass in the sun. During the summer, concerts are held on Sundays on the lawns. There is nowhere better to have a picnic and enjoy an excellent glass of Cape wine.