Johannesburg Botanical Gardens

Its hard for me not to be totally biased when writing about this park, after all it is where I fell in love and is probably my favourite quick escape from the bustle.

 No matter how many times I visit, I always seem to be surprised by how much one can see and do at this park. So instead of rambling on about my favourite things to do here are some things that you can do.

On a typical weekend the Botanical gardens is usually buzzing with families, couples, groups and individuals enjoying the many activities this park has to offer. From cycling to picnicking, taking your dog for a run or a cup of tea and a scone at the tea garden one can always find something that meets their interest here.

 

" ... one can always find something that meets their interest here."

 

  Adding to the pleasure and beautiful scenery is the breathtaking Emmarentia Dam which forms a border to the gardens. On the Dam water sports like fishing and canoeing can be participated in, or if you’d rather just watch bring along some bread to feed the ducks.

On weekends pretty sailboats with rainbow coloured sails can be seen busy with a race. There is a sailing club on the dam and for a moderate fee you could learn how to sail your own little sailboat or rent one for the day.

" ... roses in exotic colours ranging from white to purple, manicured lawns and magical fountains."

  A brief hike through the trees along the paved walkways will take you to other parts of the park like the spectacular rose gardens with roses in exotic colours ranging from white to purple, manicured lawns and magical fountains.

A Shakespeare garden and even a herb garden are also fun attractions giving you a truly educational experience as you learn many interesting things.

 

 

" ... check the bulletin board for upcoming events like concerts in the park ..."

  I would definitely suggest that before you walk blindly into this exquisite escape that you take a minute or two to study the map of the gardens layouts as well as check the bulletin board for upcoming events like concerts in the park and exotic plant shows as you don’t want to miss out on all the fun and adventure you can find at the Johannesburg Botanical Gardens.

The park is open from sunrise to sunset, and there's safe parking just over the bridge, or in Thomas Bowler Road.

  

How to get there: From the N1 South towards Bloemfontein, take the Beyers Naude offramp and turn left. Turn left into Thomas Bowler Rd. The Botanical Gardens are on your right. You will see various entrances to this big park. To view a map:  http://www.jhbcityparks.com/Conservation/JBG/Default.htm

Tariffs:

Free

For more information visit: http://www.joburg.org.za/july_2002/botanicgardens.stm or http://www.jhbcityparks.com/Conservation/JBG/Default.htm

Words by Kathy Beetge
Photos by Louis Beetge