Enjoy the splendour of Walter Sisulu National Botanical Gardens

Roodepoort is home to a number of attractions, but no other has the appeal and peaceful comforts of Walter Sisulu National Botanical Gardens. The garden holds historical significance since it was founded in 1982, but it enjoyed being the outing of choice for everyone from the early 1800s onwards. Known for its lush greenery, abundant birdlife and tame wildlife species, young and old get a kick out of visiting here. 

Feel as free as a bird 

With over 240 bird species recorded on site, the Walter Sisulu National Botanical Gardens is a bird watchers' heaven on earth. Pack your binoculars for a truly immersive experience of the biodiversity and conservation efforts made by the park's keepers. 

You can expect to see birds from the smallest variety to the largest. The dainty Fairy Flycatcher weighs around the same as a tablespoon of salt and is a rare, but exciting sight if you can catch it. You will find it hard to miss the Verreaux Eagles, weighing in at 4,5 kg with wings that span 2,8 m! The speedy Peregrine Falcon gives the eagles a hunt for their money as they are able to fly up to 100 km per hour and have sharp senses. At ground level, expect to enjoy the company of Helmeted Guineafowl who move in flocks and prefer gliding slowly around the park, chirping and calling out in their distinct voices as they go. 

The sights are beautiful to behold. It is not often you have the wonders of nature right on your doorstep. Roodepoort's locals and visitors are fortunate enough to be able to visit the Walter Sisulu National Botanical Gardens on a short, enjoyable trip and have all the luxuries of a world-class park at their disposal. A complete list of the park's birds can be found by emailing sisulugarden@sanbi.org.za. 

Curious kids turn into knowledgeable adults and if your little one is interested in nature and wildlife, an outing here would be their ideal fun day out. The sheer amount of biodiversity on display and information to gather will be enough to capture their hearts and minds, along with encouraging them to gain a further understanding when it comes to conservation and the importance of a thriving ecosystem. 

Get in touch with your animal instinct 

The mammals that roam Walter Sisulu National Botanical Gardens are shy, cautious creatures who inquisitively wander at night throughout the park. Your daytime hiking trips will not be interrupted by the park's inhabitants. Still, night vision cameras have caught animals such as the Honey Badger, Aardvark, Mountain Reedbuck, Rock Elephant Shrews and more. Depending on the season, you and your loved ones will be able to see lizards, snakes, tortoises, frogs and chameleons. These creatures love making a home of the park and it's in everyone's best interests to conserve them, as they each play vital roles in the environment. 

Have a botanical bite! 

The on-site Eagle's Fare Restaurant is open from Monday to Sunday from 9 am-5 pm and serves fresh, wholesome meals to your table. It's a memorable way to end one of your walking trails or garden tours, offering refreshment and relaxation in the midst of the gardens. A buffet spread is available every Sunday from 12 pm-2 pm and the space can also be used as a venue for special functions. 

Speaking of special functions, book your wedding, conference or fancy banquet for up to 185 people at the grand Strelitzia Hall. For birthday parties, intimate celebrations or family gatherings, consider hiring out the popular Milkwood Terrace. This will provide you with a private area of the gardens to enjoy a braai or picnic with up to 50 guests. For a smaller gathering, reserve a Lapeng-Lapa for up to 20 people. There is enough space for kids' entertainment such as jumping castles or party set-ups for baby showers etc. 

With so much to see and do at Walter Sisulu National Botanical Gardens, it's no wonder it remains as popular as ever. Lew Geffen Sotheby's International Realty has a number of incredible listings right around the corner from this national treasure. Simply contact us today to find out more about our properties to let and properties for sale in Roodepoort. 

Image credit: Northeastward view over the Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden in western Roodepoort, Gauteng by JMK | Wikipedia | CC BY-SA 3.0 | https://bit.ly/3AfRKU8