Durban Botanic Gardens

World-famous botanic gardens with plant collections and amphitheatre.

from 7655 Google reviews

A large green field with trees in the background

1 of 5

About the garden

Established in 1849 and home to Africa’s oldest heritage tree, the continent’s oldest surviving botanic garden is steeped in history. Initially used primarily for growing agricultural crops, Durban Botanic Gardens has evolved to become a fascinating botanical destination and leading educational asset.

Step inside and you’ll see that the 15-hectare space is made up of several smaller gardens. Discover the impressive Orchid House, which consists of over 8,000 Orchids from more than 75 natural and artificial genera; explore the unique Butterfly Habitat Garden with specially selected plants flowering to attract butterflies and caterpillars; or amble through the romantic Sunken Garden and take a moment to relax by the glistening lake. Meanwhile, the Cycad collection – comprising one of the rarest Cycads in the world – is a must-see.

To uncover more of the gardens’ past, why not follow a nature trail or book an informative guided golf cart tour? Visitors can also enjoy a picnic on the spacious lawns or refreshments from the delightful Tea Garden.

How long is a typical visit?

The average visitor spends 1 - 2 hours (Quarter Day) at Durban Botanic Gardens.

Opening times

16 September - 15 April Every Day 07:30 - 17:45 16 April - 15 September Every Day 07:30 - 17:15

Useful details

Garden area

37.1 Acres

Dog walking

Yes - Dogs on leads.

Cafe or restaurant

Food and drink facilities include a food stall.

Family

Yes - Children of all ages.

Wheelchair access

Mostly accessible (many paths flat and paved).

Shops

Yes - There is a gift shop.

Wheelchair hire

Wheelchairs are available for hire. Yes, at the Information Office, for free.

4001

Check local coronavirus guidance before you visit

Weather forecast

Find the garden

Durban Botanic Gardens

4001

Public Transport

N/A.

Open in Google Maps

Things to see

No features yet for this season

Google reviews

from 7655 Google reviews

Nigel Walters

4 weeks ago

I went with my family to go see the Christmas lights. It was very beautiful indeed. At the same time you could enjoy the gardens. Prices were reasonable at around R70 per person. There was an area where you could buy food. I really enjoyed the lights.

Ebrahim Mehtar

2 weeks ago

Tranquil spot that is safe even though it is close to Old Town. Perfect to unwind, read a book, have a romantic picnic or spend a day outdoors with family. By the way Botanic gardens has some really old trees and variety of same, if you into that kind of stuff. Oh did I mention they serve the best pancakes in Durban?

Malcolm Reeves

5 months ago

Looking very neat. New plantings in the beds. The old fountain is working after many years, a real treat, thank you. The friendly people at the coffee bar serve a lovely cup. The guided tour is well worth doing. Looking forward to the orchid house being reopened.

Nasim Hendricks

a month ago

It is always a pleasure to visit the Botanic Gardens due to the high standards that have always been maintained. The Trail of Lights is currently on show for the festive period. Cannot wait to attend and take beautiful pics. The coffee shop is conveniently located at the entrance.

Pippa McHale

a month ago

The lotus flowers were blooming magnificently in the lake and they hosted a large community of bright Southern Red Bishops. The grey heron feeds on tilapia daily and the pelicans nest in the tall trees A delightful garden for the entire family but very busy on weekends ..go early for the birds and for the waterlilies. The newly replanted Orchid House has some spectacular specimens

Contact the garden

031 322 4021

durbanbotanicgardens.org.za

facebook.com/DurbanBotanicGardens/

instagram.com/durbanbotanicgardens

reception@dbgt.org.za

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