South Africa Attractions

Venue: Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden    When: Daily

Using the natural terrain as well as some landscaped areas, the Walter Sisulu Botanical Garden (formerly the Witwatersrand Botanical Garden) features indigenous plants, rare species and themed displays for visitors to enjoy.

Set in the picturesque foothills of the Witwatersrand range, this botanical garden unites native species with rare and beautiful ones. A semi-wild area replicates the rocky Highveld grassland terrain of the Witwatersrand, complete with a small pond. This is especially beautiful in late spring and early summer when the wild flowers are in full bloom.

Other areas include a herb garden, a succulent garden and a "waterwise garden", which shows visitors how to make the most of their gardens without using excess water (a bonus in an area where it can be rare).

Although only designated a National Botanical Garden in July 1982 - the youngest of the South Africa National Botanical Garden's eight gardens throughout the country - and first opened to the public five years' later, it took its current name from Walter Sisulu (1912-2003), one of the leaders of South Africa's democratic struggle.

The gardens also attract a variety of wildlife and feature the only known nesting place in Gauteng of the endangered Black Eagle (aka Verreaux's Eagle), by the dramatic Witpoortjie waterfall.