The Johannesburg Botanical Gardens are a paradise of flora, trimmed lawns and enough roses to brighten anyone’s day. The combined area of the Emmarentia dam and the gardens is over 81 hectares, and is truly a spectacular place to spend one’s day.
Located just 6km from the city centre, it’s no surprise this beautiful park draws many visitors on a daily basis. With contrasting areas of activity and serenity, there’s sure to be something for everyone; from energetically canoeing, sailing or diving to cycling, running or walking the dog.
Emmarentia and the gardens date back to 1886, when the farm Braamfontein was established by Frans and Louw Geldenhuys. After the South African War, Louw contracted landless Boers to build the dam, which he named after his wife, Emmarentia. On the dam, geese, dabchicks, moorhens and other water birds can be spotted.
There are over 30 000 trees – including exotics such as oaks, redwoods and birches and at least 20 000 indigenous specimens – which are all well established as they were planted around the time the dam was built.
The garden boasts a spectacular rose garden with more than 10 000 roses that make for a breath-taking summer display
This popular weekend picnicking site also boasts an indigenous herb patch and an amazing collection of succulents to explore – over 2500 specimens! The gardens have terraced ponds and fountains and even a Shakespearean garden. It is a favourite spot for wedding photographers and there is also a chapel garden, catering for the many wedding groups that use the park as a formal venue.
Gardening demonstrations are held regularly and the garden is one of 300 worldwide that take part in a seed-exchange programme. Summer Sunset Concerts have proven hugely popular and there is a small café near the main entrance on Olifants Road that serves light meals and refreshments.
The garden is open from sunrise to sunset, and there is safe parking from different access points in Thomas Bowler, Orange and The Braids roads. The main entrance is in Olifants Road.
Tel: +27 (0)11 712 6600 (City Parks)
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