Free entry into Walter Sisulu Garden for National Gardens Week

Imagine entering an environment of natural beauty where colourful flowers, native plants, and lush gardens thrive, and where meandering paths lead to peaceful ponds, secret waterfalls, and stunning scenery.

In honour of National Gardens Week (March 10–16), the South African National Biodiversity Institute (Sanbi) extends an invitation to all interested in revelling in the splendour of the Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden, for free.

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Sanbi is welcoming wellness seekers, families, and nature enthusiasts to discover the wonders of South Africa’s biodiversity. Among the world’s wealthiest, with over 95 000 distinct species, South Africa’s gardens are essential to maintaining this amazing natural legacy. National Gardens Week serves as a reminder that being outside is about more than just taking in the breathtaking views, it’s also about practicing mindfulness, finding quiet moments, and reaping the rewards of leisurely movement and social interaction.

Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden will offer hikes up the mountain, or visitors can stroll through the gardens at their leisure. There will be special features such as proper documentation of the plant collections, including wild origin, monitoring and long-term maintenance of plants, adequate labelling of plants and an underlying scientific basis for the collections.

“Our garden will be having a display to teach the public about indigenous plants and how to save water. The public can also come and appreciate nature, see the waterfall and watch birds including the world famous Black Eagle. The National Garden Week celebrations could not come at a better time in the garden as we are also having a sculpture expo by Anton Smit,” Ronny Tshabalala, the senior marketing and communication officer of Walter Sisulu Garden, explained.

“Our Biodiversity Environment Empowerment Department conducts curriculum-based practical workshops for school grades. The public has free access to grow their joy in nature reserves and live outdoors,” he said.

Sanbi has a loyalty membership programmer for use in all the gardens although they are tailored to cater for various groups such as students, pensioners and families. Health and wellness enthusiasts can benefit from the fresh air, mindfulness, and mild exercise that come with spending time outside, families and kids can take part in engaging activities that are meant to foster a love of nature.