Against the backdrop of the magnificent Witpoortjie waterfall, this 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. Also see our featured Plant of the Week.

A breeding pair of majestic Black Eagles nest on the cliffs alongside the waterfall. The Garden is home to an abundance of wildlife. Together with the other 230 bird species, there are also a number of reptile and small mammals, including small antelope and jackal, which occur naturally in the Nature Reserve.

Several short walks run through the Garden and the surrounding natural areas. The JCI Geological Trail has recently been developed and 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 winter lunchtime picnic concerts, lectures and outings, as well as Carols by Candelight which are held in the Garden each Christmas. See the "What's On" page for details of Garden events.

Various capital development projects are planned for the Garden for the next two years. Café Clivia, the restaurant in the Garden, will be closed from 2 June 2003 while the renovations and extensions are being done. However light refreshments will be available from a kiosk during this period.

The Garden is open daily from 08:00 to 18:00, no entry after 17:00. The entrance fee is R12 for adults and R5 for students / scholars. Free entrance for senior citizens on Tuesdays. Botanical Society members have free entrance to the Garden. A surcharge is levied on special events days. If you are not sure of how to find us, print out our map of how to get to the Garden.

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
• 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