The Karoo Desert National Botanical Garden is the only truly succulent botanical garden in the southern hemisphere and on the African continent. One of the floral highlights of the year is spring, when thousands of annuals and brightly coloured vygies come into flower. This colour spectacle lasts from mid-August to the end of September. Falling within the Succulent Karoo Biome, the Garden boasts some 400 naturally occurring species. It is also a haven for rare and endangered plants, with over 300 species being protected and propagated.

Almost 70 species of birds have been recorded in the Garden, as well as a wide range of small mammals, such as the Cape grey duiker. Approximately 11 ha of the estate is cultivated, while the remaining 144 ha is kept as a flora reserve, with several kilometres of nature trails. There is a well-stocked nursery selling indigenous plants and seeds. The shop offers botanical books and curios. The new Kokerboom Restaurant offers refreshments.

Entrance: Aug-Oct R16 (adults), R6 (seniors, children) otherwise free
Open: 7am–6pm (shop and office 7.30am–4.30pm)
 t 023 347 0785  f 023 342 8719
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