Walter Sisulu Botanical Gardens, Johannesburg

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Witpoortjie Waterfall in the Walter Sisulu Botanical Gardens.

© Walter Sisulu National Botanic Gardens

Just 30km west of the Johannesburg city centre you will find the Walter Sisulu Botanical Gardens, formerly known as the Witwatersrand National Botanical Gardens.

This 300ha botanical garden offers a great escape from the inner city, with lush green lawns and the opportunity to spot rare bird species. Although the garden was only founded in 1984, the site itself has been a popular destination for many decades.

Visit the gardens' Witpoortjie Waterfall and try spot the nesting pair of Verreaux's eagles who call the cliffs near the waterfall home. This is the only known pair of Verreaux's eagles in Johannesburg.

Of the 600 plant species growing naturally in the Walter Sisulu Botanical Gardens, you must see the vast collection of lithops, which are indigenous to southern Africa. The Cycad Garden and the Succulent Rockery are also worth exploring for their diverse stocks of rare plants, some endangered.

To appreciate the nature reserve and the area's rich geology, take a walk along the Roodekrans Ridge where many species of reptiles, antelope and the odd jackal can be seen. For a detailed list of all the species of plants and animals found in the gardens, refer to the Visitor Information Centre.

There are many walks and trails meandering through the gardens. Or spend some peaceful time near the Sasol Dam. Here you can visit the bird hide for an opportunity to spot some of the 220 bird species that have been recorded in the area.