Kirstenbosch Gardens

As an avid hiker and all-around outdoorsy person, I have seen my share of unique flora, fauna and jaw-droppingly beautiful vistas. I've been very lucky in that regard. But all of these amazing outdoors experiences come with a price. And the change was so gradual that I didn't even realize it was happening! You see, I've become a bit of a nature snob :(

If a nature spot is too close to civilization or too manicured, I find myself taking off points in the rating system in my head.

I know that national parks and manicured gardens are two very different types of beauty and that there is room in this world for both. I also know that botanical gardens make rare and exotic plants, that would be very difficult to see in the wild, more accessible. But unless there are young children in tow or health issues at play, I feel like there is no excuse to cheat yourself out of a more "authentic" outdoor experience by going to a garden over a national park.

I am working to conquer such thoughts. But even unrepentant nature snobs will be able to enjoy the Kirstenbosch Gardens in Cape Town. Kirstenbosch somehow manages to zig-zag across the line between wild and manicured without going too far one way or the other. In fact, I felt that the gardens were as memorable an experience as hiking Table Mountain itself!

Pincushion Protea, Kirstenbosch Gardens

I think what makes Kirstenbosch so unique is its setting. The gardens are right up against the base of Table Mountain (the back side of it). In fact, many of the popular hiking routes to the top begin/end in the gardens. So all the beautiful flowers that you see are very close to their natural environment. Somehow, this makes the experience feel less like going to a zoo and more like going on safari!

Boomslang Walkway

And I have to give major props to whoever planned the layout of the gardens. The variety of paths and trails is amazing. There are a lot of stroller-friendly paved paths and green lawns. But there are also a plethora of little side trails that wind through the trees. Many of them have little gems to discover, like small bridges, birdbaths, or tiny picnic tables made from tree trunks. It really gives you the feeling that there is something new to discover around every corner!

I also enjoyed the newest addition to the gardens: The Boomslang Walkway. This treetop walkway is fairly short, but its winding design makes you feel like you're actually in the trees. And you get some really killer views of the mountain.

But what makes Kirstenbosch worth the price of admission ($5 US), is the amazing variety of plants and flowers. I saw so many things I had never even heard of before! All kinds of Proteas, colourful little Ericas and some Cycads that look like they came straight out of Jurassic Park!

Looks like a fly, eh?

Candelabra Tree, Kirstenbosch Gardens

Kirstenbosch is extensive enough to keep you occupied for a few hours. And it's a great place to hang out after a hike as well. As a Cape Town Experience, I think it's right up there with Table Mountain!