 |
 Malcolm Road, Poortview, Roodepoort PO Box 2194, Wilropark, 1731 Email: SisuluGarden@sanbi.org Tel: +27 11 958 1750 Fax: +27 11 958 1752 GPS: S 26 deg. 05.210' and E 27 deg. 50.694' |
Against the backdrop of the magnificent Witpoortjie waterfall, this Garden
(previously called the Witwatersrand National Botanical Garden) covers
almost 300 hectares and consists of both landscaped and natural veld areas.
The history of the Garden shows that it was
founded in 1982, but has been a popular venue for outings since the 1800's.
The
natural vegetation of the area is known as the "Rocky Highveld Grassland" and consists of a mosaic of grassland and savanna, with dense bush in
kloofs and along streams. A list of naturally occuring
trees is available.The variety of habitats accommodates over 600 naturally
occurring plant species. View the seasonal highlights.
A breeding pair of majestic Verreaux's Eagles nest on the cliffs alongside the waterfall. The Garden is home to an abundance of wildlife. Together with the other 220 bird species, there are also a number of reptile and small mammals, including small antelope and jackal, which occur naturally in the Nature Reserve. For more information see - Havens of Biodiversity - a booklet describing biodiversity in the 9 National Botanical Gardens (.pdf file)
Several short walks run through the Garden and the surrounding natural areas. The JCI Geological Trail gives visitors the opportunity to not only walk along the Roodekrans Ridge and in the Nature Reserve portion of the Garden, but also to learn something about the fascinating geology of the area. Guided tours can be arranged for groups.
An outcomes-based schools' environmental education programme running in the Garden caters for school groups.
The Botanical Society, a non-profit support organisation, organises a wide range of lectures and outings. See the "What's On" page for details of Garden events.
The Eagle's Fare restaurant has a tuckshop where cooldrinks and snacks may be purchased. The Nursery at the Garden and Isitiya Gift and Book Shop are open daily.
The Garden is open daily from 08:00 to 18:00, no entry after 17:00. Entrance fees are R20 for adults, R10 for students and R7 for scholars. Children under 6 free. Free entrance for senior citizens on Tuesdays (R20 other days). Botanical Society members have free entrance to the Garden. A surcharge is levied for concerts and special events. If you are not sure of how to find us, print out our Directions and Map of how to get to the Garden. |
You may bring along a ready-made picnic, there are many shaded lawn areas. Please note that braais and gas fires are not permitted. We have adopted a 'Carry-in Carry-out' Litter Policy and request that you take anything you bring or buy back home for disposal. Find out "How to Enjoy a Botanical Garden" which will enable you to plan and make the most of your visit."
Take a virtual tour to see some of the Garden's special features:
- Witpoortjie Waterfall - the surrounding cliffs reveal the fascinating geology of the area.
- Black Eagles - the only pair of nesting Black Eagles in urban Johannesburg make their home on the rock face alongside the waterfall.
- Succulent Rockery - a variety of some of the unusual succulent plants of South Africa.
- SASOL Dam & Wetland - take a walk along the boardwalk through the wetland and visit the bird hide.
- Cycad Garden - a collection of these ancient plants from all over South Africa.
- Water Garden - a stream with a series of ponds and water-loving plants flows past the restaurant.
- Walks & Trails - take visitors through both the natural and landscaped areas.
