Discover the Karoo Desert National Botanical Gardens
South Africa is home to some of the most beautiful natural landscapes in the world. The Karoo Desert National Botanical Gardens in Worcester is one of the most impressive landmarks in the area. This unique garden incorporates elements of the arid desert with the lush, green foliage associated with traditional gardens.
Embracing nature and nurture
Spanning 154 hectares, this garden features an eclectic mix of plants. The variety of foliage is essential to sustain the wildlife you might see on your trip to the gardens. Among the creatures that call the Karoo Desert National Botanical Gardens home are dassies, mongoose, scrub hares, Cape grysboks, caracals, the nocturnal Cape porcupine, an array of tortoise species, chameleons and more. Over 95 species of birds have been identified in the garden and there is a 1 km-long Desert Birds Trail for all bird watchers and enthusiasts to enjoy.
The most important factor in maintaining this ecosystem is the little insects such as butterflies, bees, beetles and sunbirds. They are essential in keeping the garden alive and thriving. Every effort is made to keep the Karoo Desert National Botanical Garden as self-sustaining as possible while teaching visitors about conservation.
Shining a light on Indigenous plant species
The garden is home to a wide range of succulents. It is the only one of its kind in the country and houses the largest succulent collection you will see anywhere. These plants thrive in drier conditions and are found in abundance at Karoo Desert National Botanical Garden. If visitors want to truly immerse themselves in the garden experience, they are welcome to join the many nature trails that intertwine across the landscape and offer a unique perspective to the endangered species that grow here.
With over 400 different plant species including the Namaqualand flora with its famous springtime, colourful flowers and assortment of rare plants over 300 of these are protected in the Karoo Desert National Botanical Garden. Established in 1921 near Matjiesfontein, the garden moved to Worcester in 1945 so that a higher number of visitors could enjoy the beauty and serenity. Karoo Desert National Botanical Garden offers.
What you can do at the gardens
Enjoy a meal at Karoo Desert National Botanical Gardens by stopping at the Kokerboom Restaurant. Here you can enjoy wholesome, traditional meals such as gourmet burgers, salads, wraps, baskets filled with finger foods, signature prawn dishes and exciting cocktails. Kokerboom Restaurant proudly supports South African wines like Leipzig, Aan de Doorns, De Wet, Stettyn Cellar and more.
For those who would like to purchase a piece of Worcester, choose from a selection of jams, preserves and chutneys that are locally made that can be found in the deli attached to the restaurant. There are also paintings and succulent plants for sale that visitors can buy as mementos. If you would like to host birthday parties, social gatherings or corporate functions, the restaurant is also available to hire as a special venue. Catering can be organised by prior arrangement.
Enjoy your time at Worcester
The Karoo Desert National Botanical Gardens is the highlight of visiting Worcester. With its charming open areas and ideal quiet locations, you can own land here or search for a Worcester property for sale. Contact us today to learn more.
22 Jun 2024
Author Lew Geffen Sotheby's International Realty