Durban Botanic Gardens- Travel Tips
What to See, How to Plan & Tours

Educational & Science
South Africa
5 Reviews
+3 Photos
Suggested Duration: 3 hours
The Durban Botanic Gardens, lauded as Africa's oldest surviving botanical garden and Durban's earliest public institution, unfolds across 15 hectares in the warm embrace of KwaZulu-Natal's subtropical climate. This prestigious garden has a rich tapestry of history that dates back to 1849, with its establishment tied to global botanical endeavors spearheaded by Kew Gardens. Over the years, it has flourished under the curatorship of passionate botanists like John Medley Wood, who discovered numerous plant species, including the iconic Wood's Cycad, now the emblem of the garden. With an impressive collection that spans cycads, ferns, orchids, bromeliads, and a vast array of trees and palms, the Durban Botanic Gardens offers a botanical mosaic that represents both local flora and exotic species from around the world. The gardens aren't just a sanctuary for plant life, they play an active role in community engagement, hosting music bands, Victorian tea parties, and an annual indigenous plant fair that aligns with global biodiversity themes.

Reviews of Durban Botanic Gardens

  • attractions-reviews-avatar dene moodley
    5
    Reviewed: 2024-08-06

    My recent visit to the Botanic Gardens was a delightful escape into nature's serenity. The gardens are a perfect haven for relaxation, surrounded by beautiful trees and the sweet sounds of birds. Lush grass areas and romantic pathways invite you to stroll and unwind. Watching ducks swim gracefully in the lake adds to the tranquility of this well-maintained garden. However, if you plan to bring kids, keep in mind that active play is restricted. The gardens do not permit sports like ball games, Frisbee, or bike riding, which might lead to boredom for energetic children. Walking dogs is allowed, making it a great spot for pet owners. One highlight is the charming coffee cart, Gourmet Coffee, situated at the entrance. It offers a delightful selection of sandwiches, wraps, and mouthwatering large chocolate chip cookies and oat crunchies. Overall, I would rate the Botanic Gardens a 10 out of 10 for those seeking to escape reality, relax, and perhaps read a book on the grass. For families with active kids, it might be a 6 out of 10 due to the limitations on play activities.

  • attractions-reviews-avatar Steve Strydom
    3
    Reviewed: 2024-08-02

    This is a difficult review because the last time I was in the gardens was back in the 90's so as much as the staff are doing the best they can with the limited resources from Durban municipality, this wonderful place is but a 10th of its former glory, but this is Africa and expectations have changed so in fairness it is a peaceful and very relaxing place to visit, it is well maintained,so well done management and staff for doing the best that you can, there is a coffee trailer just inside the entrance which is okay but I don't know how he copes with larger crowds as we went midweek, so overall yes it is still worth a visit.👍 PLEASE NOTE the entrance has changed it is a bit further down so look out for that. Very pet friendly for dog owners wanting to take their loyal friends for a nice walk.

  • attractions-reviews-avatar marlene naicker
    5
    Reviewed: 2024-07-23

    Absolutely beautiful and unusual plants. Was fascinating to see the oldest tree. Shared this visit with my 10 yr old daughter. She loved it.

  • attractions-reviews-avatar Stephanie Umurdhew
    5
    Reviewed: 2024-06-05

    Beautiful, tranquil place to have a picnic or party. Its also a perfect place for photo shoots. You are allowed to take dogs for a walk but must be on a leash. You sadly are not allowed to have braais. This is also the place where the trail of lights happen yearly. It best to go to this garden during the summer months. The rain makes the ground very soggy. It is free entry with ample parking

  • attractions-reviews-avatar Kyle is the name
    5
    Reviewed: 2024-05-08

    Beautiful, peaceful and serene outing for the day. Tour guide Vishnu was very knowledgeable about the history and abundance of botany at this garden. I even scored a some excellent photo opportunities as well. This is truly an underestimated experience in Durban. Highly recommended to families

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