Cape Town’s green gems are its parks and gardens which are open to you to explores and can be found on the Cape Town Green Map.
Cape Town has no shortage of breathtaking scenery. But beyond some of its more famous landmarks, the city is also home to a variety of parks and gardens that offer visitors a chance to escape the urban environment and enjoy the tranquility of nature.
Here are a small selection of some of the best parks and gardens in Cape Town: ENJOY
Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden
Kirstenbosch Walkway – the Boomslang
Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden is one of Cape Town’s most iconic parks and a must-visit for nature enthusiasts. Located at the foot of Table Mountain, Kirstenbosch boasts an incredible diversity of flora and visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the gardens.
The elevated walkway, the Boomslang, takes visitors through the treetops and offers spectacular views of the gardens and surrounding mountains.
Kirstenbosch is not just a recreational space, it also plays an important role in the conservation and protection of South Africa’s unique plant biodiversity. And right now is the home of the Kirstenbosch Summer Sunset Concerts.
WHERE: Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, Rhodes Drive, Newlands, Cape Town 7700
Green Point Park
Green Point Park
Green Point Park sits on a former golf course transformed into a public space for people to relax, exercise and socialise in. The park is a Green Goal Legacy Project of the 2010 Soccer World Cup.
The park features a wide range of amenities, including walking and cycling paths, an outdoor gym, a children’s playground, a biodiversity garden and a wetland.
Green Point Park is well known for its eco-friendly design and sustainable features, including the use of solar power, the harvesting of rainwater and the use of recycled materials. Recently opened is the Dome Education Centre. ‘The addition of the Khoi dome structure, exhibition and lesson elements will further enhance the EEG’s offering to all visitors,’ said Alderman Andrews.
WHERE: Green Point Park, 1 Fritz Sonnenberg Rd, Green Point, Cape Town, 8005
Company’s Garden
Company’s Garden
The Company’s Garden is a historic park located in the heart of the city. The park dates back to the 17th century when it was established by the Dutch East India Company as a vegetable garden to provide fresh produce to crews on passing ships.
Today, the Company’s Garden includes walking paths, benches, a fish pond and a playground. Its oak trees are over 150 years old.
The park is also home to several historical buildings, including the Iziko South African Museum, Iziko South African National Gallery National Gallery, South African Jewish Museum and the Old Town House. See the 2025 Art Craft + Museums Map.
WHERE: Company’s Garden, Wale St, Cape Town 8001
Arderne Gardens
Arderne Gardens
Claremont’s Arderne Gardens was established in the late 19th century by a British botanist and boasts a stunning collection of trees and plants from all over the world.
The garden is home to more than 300 different tree species, including some of the oldest and rarest specimens in the country.
The garden’s well-maintained pathways provide visitors with a peaceful place to enjoy a leisurely stroll. The garden also features a large pond that is home to several species of fish, ducks and geese.
A popular location for wedding photos!
WHERE: Arderne Gardens, Main Road, Claremont, Cape Town 7700
De Waal Park
De Waal Park
De Waal Park is situated between the neighbourhoods of Gardens and Oranjezicht, and it was established in the late 1800s. The park is known for its beautiful green lawns and large trees.
It is a popular destination for picnics, dog-walking and live music events. The park also has a small playground for children and a pond with ducks.
Throughout the year, the park hosts a variety of events, including the popular Jazz in the Park concert series during the summer months.
WHERE: De Waal Park, Molteno Road, Cape Town 8001
Rondebosch Park
Rondebosch Park Potter’s Market
Rondebosch Park is a tranquil green space popular for outdoor activities such as jogging, picnicking and dog walking.
The park features well-maintained lawns, children’s play areas, and a pond that attracts a variety of bird species. There are also several walking trails that lead through the park’s wooded areas.
On the second Saturday of the month, an art and craft market is held between 9am and 2pm, offering a relaxed atmosphere with fresh produce, prepared foods and hand-made goods. Rondebosch Park also hosts a bi-annual Potter’s Market that takes place in March and November featuring the works of both professional and amateur potters.
WHERE: Rondebosch Park, Campground Rd & Sandown Road, Rondebosch, Cape Town, 7700
Maynardville Park
Maynardville Park
Maynardville Park is known for its open-air amphitheatre, which hosts the annual Shakespeare in the Park festival during the summer months.
In addition to the amphitheatre, Maynardville Park features a large grassy area perfect for picnics and outdoor games, as well as walking paths and a playground for children.
The park is also home to a variety of trees and plants, including a collection of camellias that bloom during the winter months.
WHERE: Maynardville Park, 27 Piers Rd, Wynberg, Cape Town, 7800
Enjoy Cape Town’s Green Gems!
WHAT: Cape Town’s Green Gems: Parks and Gardens to explore
WHERE: See above
INFO: Cape Town Green Map | See also Cape{town}etc
