The Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens are justifiably regarded as one of the top seven botanical gardens in the world. And with good reason! These gardens are a magnificent celebration of unique South African flora. All plants are indigenous to South Africa and these include delicate fynbos, majestic proteas and much-coveted cycads – all set within expansive rolling lawns. Streams, ponds and well-laid pathways encourage the visitor to easily explore the 528 ha of this marvel of a garden. Or, if deemed too challenging, then at least the 36 ha of the exquisitely cultivated sections.

The Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens was established in 1913 by a visionary Cape Government to ‘ promote, conserve and display’ the extraordinarily rich and diverse flora of Southern Africa. No visitor with a love of enhanced Nature can afford to miss it.

A singular feature of these gardens is the tree canopy walkway also known as the ‘Boomslang’. This raised tree canopy walkway lazily winds and climbs and falls through the trees. An unforgettable and utterly different way of seeing the gardens, securely enfolding its ravishing plants, shrubs, flowers and trees. And gazing upwards and beyond, one can see the stark backdrop of iconic Table Mountain, and even further the hazy splendour of the Hottentots Holland Mountains.

This 130 metre long ‘Boomslang’ tree canopy walkway is a crescent-shaped structure made of steel and timber. Starting at ground level it gently climbs to a height of 11.5 metres before, as gently, falling away.

For bird lovers, the gardens are home to a wide variety of birds. And as one can see, the views from the ‘Boomslang’ canopy walkway are nothing short of spectacular.