Thousands of visitors experienced the joy and wonder of spending time in South Africa’s 11 national botanical and two zoological gardens in the first ever National Gardens Week from 10 – 16 March 2025. Themed, “Grow your joy,’ this inaugural event offered visitors free access to all gardens.
The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) invited schools, families, friends, church and other social groups, individuals, and all nature lovers to delight in the variety of activities on offer across all its gardens. From exercise sessions to guided walks and plant sales, to picnics and braais, and wildlife encounters, everyone had the opportunity to find what brings them joy. Visitors also had the chance to learn more about conservation through interactive displays, expert talks, and up-close encounters with wildlife, showcasing SANBI’s role in protecting South Africa’s rich biodiversity.
The National Zoological Garden experienced the highest number of visitors with over 70 000 visitors making their way through the gates of the Pretoria Zoo throughout National Gardens Week.
“This is an affirmation that all our national botanical and zoological gardens are desirable destinations for families, school groups and communities in the areas that the gardens serve,” said SANBI Chief Executive Officer, Shonisani Munzhedzi.
“While there were queues to enter the zoo, staff managed numbers expertly and many people were able to enjoy the spectacular sight of variety of animals, reptiles, birds and fish, including the resident big cats showcasing their power and splendour, at their NZG home,” said Nontsikelelo Mpulo, Director of Marketing, Communications, and Commercialisation. “Reptile Alley was a big hit with a few brave visitors willing to touch the anaconda, let alone have it draped around their neck…a unique experience.”
Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, a firm favourite amongst all South African and international tourists, also welcomed throngs of visitors on the weekend of 15 – 16 March 2025. Visitors can still enjoy the magic of Kirstenbosch at the Summer Sunset Concert Series with performances from local favourites Jeremy Loops on 23 March and Ami Faku and Simmy on 30 March with international artists, Goo Goo Dolls, scheduled for 25 and 26 March 2025.
Visitors to Pretoria National Botanical Garden were treated to up-and-coming artists who showcased their music for the first time in the garden while Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden hosted world-renowned artist Anton Smit who gave an exclusive tour of his artworks featured at three SANBI gardens.
“March 2025 will most definitely stand out as the highest combined monthly visitor number in the history of SANBI, by far,” said Mpulo. “This is a testament to all the hard work done by all the teams across the country. This remarkable response from visitors shows the importance of public green spaces and their essential role in enhancing well-being, fostering environmental awareness, and strengthening community connections.”
“SANBI wishes to thank all those who responded to the clarion call to celebrate nature, learn more about the conservation efforts and the extensive variety of activities available in the gardens,” says Mpulo “This overwhelming support confirms the importance of National Gardens Week, and we look forward to growing this initiative into an annual tradition that continues to inspire, educate, and bring joy to all who visit our gardens.”
