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Kirstenbosch South Africa Safaris

SOUTH AFRICAN SAFARIS AND KIRSTENBOSCH

One of the main highlights in the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens is the abundance of proteas that are found nestled amongst the bushes. Kirstenbosch is comprised of about 528 ha of fertile land encompassing long green lawns, colourful flowers, cool forests and refreshing streams, making it the ideal place for a family day trip. There are also picnic areas, hiking trails, walking paths, shops, restaurants, stone exhibitions and popular summer concerts in the warm evenings – something for everyone. There is a small entrance fee for Kirstenbosch but all the fees are used to maintain and expand these stunning botanical gardens.

Kirstenbosch is located in Cape Town and was founded in 1913; it was the first botanical garden in the world established to protect unique flora. Kirstenbosch is situated at the base of the eastern slopes of the majestic Table Mountain and is one of 8 national botanical gardens covering 5 of South Africa’s 6 biomes… The entire flora found in Kirstenbosch is indigenous besides a few exceptions, even the plants that are cultivated in the greenhouses are native (savanna, fynbos and karoo) to the area.

The region of Kirstenbosch was used to cultivate timber when Jan Van Riebeck governed the area. Many trees where planted in this region to protect the fledging colony and since that time it was bought by Cecil John Rhodes in 1895 and then bequeathed to the nation after his death in 1902. Cecil John Rhodes bought the Kirstenbosch area to build up and rehabilitate the region with indigenous plants… it is believed that Kirstenbosch was named after the surname of J.F.Kirsten (manager of the land in the 1700’s) and from the Dutch word ‘bosch’ that means forest/bush.

Kirstenbosch is open every day of the year and is not only home to indigenous flora but also to fascinating animals, such as; indigenous birds, small ground animals, small tree mammals, reptiles, frogs and invertebrates. Kirstenbosch is located in a Mediterranean climate (hot, dry summer months, November – March and short, cool winter months, July - August), the best time to visit would be during the spring months which include September and October.

There are also other South African attractions beneath that you might want to visit on your South African Safari.

Safaris that pass through Kirstenbosch

Garden Route for Family - Self-Drive

Experience the Garden Route on a Self-Drive Family tour with Jenman African Safaris, this self-drive family tour will take you from Port Elizabeth to Cape Town. Read more…

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