Manie van der Schijff Botanical Garden

Fascinating garden and research-focused plant collection of over 3,000 species.

from 311 Google reviews

1 of 7

About the garden

Keen to unearth exclusive details about Southern Africa’s native flora? Then, the University of Pretoria’s Manie van der Schijff Botanical Garden is the place to go. It is a captivating 3.5-hectare space designed to share incredible discoveries about the region’s indigenous species with its visitors.

Steeped in history, the garden’s origins go back to 1924 when you would have seen Pavetta varieties planted on the campus. Nowadays, among the extensive collection, you can see everything from tranquil Cherry Blossom to stunning Magnolias, and striking Camellias to exotic Cycads. In 1986, Prof. Manie van der Schijff – the person the Garden gets its name from – significantly shaped the garden into what you see today.

Wander among towering trees in the Arboretum, inhale the delicious scents of the Herb Garden and explore the enchanting Rock Garden. You can also browse the plant sales and join inspiring horticultural activities.

How long is a typical visit?

The average visitor spends 1 - 2 hours (Quarter Day) at Manie van der Schijff Botanical Garden University of Pretoria.

Opening times

By appointment only.

Useful details

Garden area

5 Acres

Dog walking

No - Guide dogs only.

Cafe or restaurant

Food and drink facilities include a cafe/restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating.

Family

No - Children are not allowed.

Bicycle storage

Yes - Yes - You can lock up your bike.

Wheelchair access

Very accessible (all paths flat and paved).

Shops

None

City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality, 0002

Check local coronavirus guidance before you visit

Weather forecast

Find the garden

Manie van der Schijff Botanical Garden

City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality

0002

Public Transport

N/A.

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Things to see

No features yet for this season

Google reviews

4.5
from 311 Google reviews

Ndzawulo Mitchell Mihlanga

6 months ago

Main campus always sets the vibe.a little happier these days clean as always it surely doesn't feel like it's usually self though seeing that there's very little people on campus.The piazza posted below is a place where students come to chill,it's usually filled with students having lunch and destressing over some good conversation with Friends.

Elsabe Krone

3 weeks ago

I had only 1 day in Pretoria to make finacial arrangements with my student-child. I was refused to enter the gates. Even after we asked what the procedure is for a parent to enter, I was just told by Security that I am not allowed!!! Very unsatisfactory!

Mashupye Masemola

10 months ago

One of the more beautiful campuses in the country. The grounds are teeming with stressed out undergraduates and brilliant postgraduate researchers. Everyone is approachable, yes some people are cynical but that's the law of large numbers. I highly recommend visiting or enrolling with the institution, many world leaders discovered themselves on these grounds and you, world leader or not, will definitely have a worthy almamata.

Karabo Stobber

6 months ago

The security at the gate is very good, makes me feel my child is safe inside and also they always very friendly

Renita Jordaan

a week ago

Main entrance not busy at all. Drive and drop zone works good!

Contact the garden

+27 12 420 4274

up.ac.za/botanical-garden

facebook.com/MvdSBG/

jason.sampson@up.ac.za

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