Kirstenbosch Revealed – Africa’s Greatest Garden

The winding paths, aged stone walls and ancient trees are just about as old as the city itself and are steeped in history. Numerous owners with varying shades of green fingers have had their influence on these fertile foothills. From the early days of alien plant eradication to the commercial-growing that was unsuccessfully tried, to the thriving garden which we enjoy today, there is something on offer for every interest.

The exploration of this emerald patchwork is brought to life by your African Lynx guide who feels it is more their backyard than a botanical garden only visited upon guest request. The solace of the protea beds high up in the garden is an escape that allows the mind to reboot like few places on the peninsula. The only distraction from this unique view of the city is from the busy sugarbirds competing for nectar.

Roll down the hill and into the dell, the heart of Kirstenbosch, where the tranquillity of the oldest harnessed spring on Table Mountain still produces more than 70 litres of crystal clear water per minute. One of the main lifelines of the garden, this calming water trickles through the shade of yellowwoods more than 100 years old.

A beautiful male African Paradise Flycatcher feeding his day-old chicks. Captured by Head Guide Rodger Bowren whilst leisurely exploring the gardens

Intimate local knowledge, gathered only by time spent in the garden, reveals secret nooks and hidden gems. Splashes of colour from the resident birds and their concealed nests, bright blooms that vary from day to day, prehistoric cycads and giant trees all coupled with freshly brewed coffee or a gourmet picnic culminate in the most immersive botanical garden experience one can find.