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Pietermaritzburg's tranquil gardens
KwaZulu-Natal Botanical Gardens
The KwaZulu-Natal Botanical Gardens.
© South African Tourism
Did you know?
A new Biodiversity Walk has been added to the attractions at the KwaZulu-Natal Botanic Gardens.
Plants from the eastern region of South Africa have a home at the KwaZulu-Natal Botanical Gardens. Some rare and endangered plants are also housed in the gardens, which were established in 1874 and are located in Pietermaritzburg. It is one of 9 national botanical gardens in the country and the only national botanical garden in the province.
A handful of species from the Northern Hemisphere, such as swamp cypress, tulip trees and camphor trees, are also on display, giving visitors a sense of the gardens' Victorian past. Immerse yourself in the aura of peace and tranquility that permeates the stunning avenue of London Plane trees and listen to the wind as it beats against the tree-tops.
The KwaZulu-Natal Botanical Gardens also sports a fair share of the abundant birdlife found in the region. You can view some of the 150 species of birds recorded in the gardens in a quiet corner, where trees have been planted specifically to attract our feathered friends. Take a walk along the trail that meanders its way through the scrubs until you find a patch of flowering trees and spend some time here watching the sunbirds feed from the nectar.
Finally, laze away the afternoon by the pond with a cup of tea or a picnic, while watching the ducks swim by.
Travel tips & Planning info
Who to contact
KwaZulu-Natal Botanical Gardens
Tel: +27 (0)33 344 3585
Fax: +27 (0)33 344 1284
Email: KZN-NBG@sanbi.org.za
How to get here
There are regular flights from Johannesburg to Pietermaritzburg. The city lies 80km from Durban on the north on the N3 freeway.
Around the area
Nearby attractions include the Voortrekker Museum, Natal Museum, Golden Horse Casino and Umngeni River Bird Park.
Tours to do
Guided tours of the gardens are available but booking is essential.
What will it cost
Entrance is R12 for adults and R6 for senior citizens, students and children. Entrance to the garden is free for children under 6.