Grow your joy: Celebrate, embrace, protect and enjoy biodiversity wealth
Introducing National Gardens Week 2025, a celebration of the beauty and significance of South Africa’s botanical and zoological gardens. South Africa ranks as the third most biodiverse country in the world, recognised for its high levels of endemism and home to over 95,000 known species. From 10–16 March 2025, we invite everyone to enjoy free access to all botanical and zoological gardens, offering a chance to connect with nature and experience its wonders.
This year’s theme, ‘Grow Your Joy’, encourages people to connect with the natural world in uplifting ways. It’s about embracing mindfulness and wellbeing and enjoying the benefits of gentle physical activity and community engagement. Whether it’s a peaceful walk among indigenous plants, joining a yoga session, taking a guided tour, learning about conservation efforts, or enjoying a fun day out with family, National Garden Week gives emphasis to the essential role gardens play in biodiversity conservation, education, and well-being.
Explore, learn and discover:
Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden
Experience the Witpoortjie Waterfall and the majestic Verreaux’s Eagles soaring overhead at Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden.
This National Gardens Week, Join us for Daily Guided Walks to uncover the beauty and biodiversity of the garden, featuring the People’s Plants Garden, a rich display of South Africa’s botanical heritage, and a captivating geological rock display.
Explore a stunning array of plants and discover how you can bring nature home. Grow Your Joy by connecting with the beauty of Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden and gaining new inspiration for your own garden.
Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden
Set against the stunning backdrop of Table Mountain, Kirstenbosch is a sanctuary of natural beauty. After exploring the iconic Boomslang treetop walkway and wandering through ancient cycads, proteas, and vibrant fynbos, treat yourself to a 2-course meal at Moyo Restaurant for just R195 throughout March.
Visit the Kirstenbosch Bookshop Courtyard Sale for daily book highlights, a specially curated collection, and a kids’ section with fun activities for young bookworms.
Enjoy free entry during National Gardens Week and take a stroll through the breathtaking Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden. While you soak in the beauty of the Boomslang treetop walkway, proteas, and ancient cycads, pop into the Courtyard Sale to discover unique botanical-inspired gifts, keepsakes, and treasures that let you take a piece of nature home with you.
KwaZulu-Natal National Botanical Garden
Step into history and nature’s hidden wonders! KwaZulu-Natal National Botanical Garden is one of our oldest gardens, home to majestic centenarian trees, some planted as far back as 1884.
Adventure seekers, this one is for you! During National Gardens Week, enjoy a 30% discount at our Adventure Park with promo code: AcroWild25.
Experience thrills among the trees while embracing the beauty of nature. Don’t miss out!
Join Virgin Active for Aerobics and Health is the New Wealth trial campaign, where fitness meets fresh air. Recharge your body and mind while celebrating National Gardens Week.
Join Palm Tree Events for the launch of Hike and Wine, a unique experience that combines adventure, relaxation, and the beauty of nature. After your hike, take time to discover the exciting activities happening throughout the garden.
Join our daily guided tours and uncover the biodiversity wonders of KwaZulu-Natal National Botanical Garden! Each tour lasts one hour and reveals the beauty beyond what you see.
Interested visitors are required to RSVP by emailing K.rallele@sanbi.org.za or calling 033 344 3585.
Karoo Desert National Botanical Garden
Celebrate National Gardens Week by exploring a beautiful selection of succulents at our Succulent Plant Market. Take home unique, water-wise plants and let nature bring joy to your space!
Explore a world of handcrafted beauty at our Arts and Crafts Market! From unique artworks to locally made treasures, find something special while soaking in the natural splendour of Karoo National Botanical Garden.
Celebrate creativity. Support local artists.
Fifteen (15%) of the species at the National Zoological Garden are threatened due to habitat loss, poaching, and human-wildlife conflict.
This National Gardens Week, join our interactive stations for exciting educational activities that connect you to nature and inspire conservation action.
Visitors can explore a diverse array of animals and plants across the zoological garden, reptile park and aquarium, offering invaluable educational opportunities.
Pretoria National Botanical Garden
Visit our succulent plant market and discover a variety of unique, water-wise plants to brighten your home and garden. Let nature inspire you while you celebrate, embrace, protect, and enjoy biodiversity wealth.
Join us for Somewhere in the Garden, a boutique music event filled with incredible performances and family-friendly fun.
Harold Porter National Botanical Garden
Shop, explore, and celebrate local creativity! Our Market Day is the perfect place to find handmade treasures, fresh produce, and unique crafts while enjoying the stunning natural setting of Harold Porter National Botanical Garden.
Join us for the Silly Socks Twilight Run and embrace the joy of nature and movement. Celebrate, Embrace, Protect, and Enjoy Biodiversity Wealth while having fun in your silliest socks.
Join us for a refreshing Park Run that invites you to Celebrate, Embrace, Protect, and Enjoy Biodiversity Wealth as you run through the peaceful beauty of Harold Porter National Botanical Garden.
Art in the Park invites you to celebrate the beauty of nature while embracing your creativity in the breathtaking setting of Harold Porter National Botanical Garden.
Protect and enjoy biodiversity Wealth through art, nature, and community.
Lowveld National Botanical Garden
Visit our Plant Sale during National Gardens Week and take home beautiful plants for your garden. Plus, exclusive giveaways await selected customers. Celebrate biodiversity and plant a new future today.
Join our gardening techniques and demonstrations to learn new skills, get expert tips, and Grow Your Joy through the art of gardening.
Mokopane Biodiversity Conservation Centre
Join us for a special activity celebrating Water Conservation Month and discover how you can make a difference in protecting our precious water resources. Together, we can celebrate, embrace, protect, and enjoy biodiversity wealth through responsible water use.
Join us for an exciting Waste Management Activity as we prepare for Global Recycling Day. Learn how to reduce, reuse, and recycle, and discover how small actions can make a big impact in protecting our environment.
Join us to learn about the endangered animals housed at the Centre and the steps we taking to protect these species.
Thohoyandou National Botanical Garden
Step into the beauty of Thohoyandou National Botanical Garden with our guided walks! Explore scenic trails, learn about unique plants and animals, and connect with nature during National Gardens Week all for free.
Free State National Botanical Garden
Get an early riser free entry and enjoy the garden at dawn. Whether you’re hiking, running, or simply enjoying the peaceful morning atmosphere, this is your chance to experience nature at its finest.
Enjoy free entry and free guided tours daily from 08:30 – 15:30 during National Gardens Week. Book your spot today call 051 436 3530 to reserve your guided tour.
Take a journey through 43 remarkable indigenous trees on our self-guided Tree Route! Learn about the beauty and significance of these natural wonders, including a 200-year-old Olea Africana tree.
Medicinal plants create jobs, generate income, and support well-being. Join us during National Gardens Week to learn how to cultivate your own healing plants at home. Discover the power of nature and embrace biodiversity wealth.
What you can do:
- Visit a garden: take advantage of free entry to experience the calming, invigorating effects of nature.
- Engage and connect: join group activities, guided tours, and community events to nurture both body and mind.
- Support conservation: embrace sustainable practices and help preserve our natural heritage for future generations. Support our plant sale at various gardens.
Let’s connect on social media! Share your moments of joy in the garden using #GrowYourJoy and #NationalGardensWeek