Attraction
Apartheid Museum
The Apartheid Museum beside Gold Reef City tells the story of the rise and fall of apartheid through film, photographs, documents and a striking race-classified entrance.
Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden
Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden in Roodepoort covers 300 hectares of indigenous gardens and veld below a waterfall where Verreaux's eagles nest on the cliffs.
At a glance
- Type
- National botanical garden
- Area
- Roodepoort, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Official site
- sanbi.org
Good to know
- Waterfall
- Bird hide
- Restaurant
- Gift shop
- Walking paths
Why we recommend it
Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden lies on the western edge of the city in Roodepoort, about 30 to 40 minutes' drive from Rosebank. It is one of South Africa's national botanical gardens, run by the South African National Biodiversity Institute, and covers about 300 hectares, mixing landscaped gardens with natural grassland, bush and rocky ridges. It was established in 1982 and opened to the public in 1987 as the Witwatersrand National Botanical Garden, and it was later renamed after the anti-apartheid leader Walter Sisulu.
The main sight is the waterfall that tumbles down the cliffs of the Roodekrans ridge at the top of the garden. A pair of Verreaux's eagles, a large black eagle, has nested on the cliff face beside the falls for many years, and the current pair, named Makatsa and Mahlori, have raised chicks here since 2020. Bring binoculars and look up at the ledges near the waterfall, especially in the early morning.
Beyond the falls, more than 600 species of indigenous plants grow across three natural vegetation types. There are themed garden sections near the entrance, wide lawns for picnics and walking paths that climb towards the ridge. A bird hide overlooks the Sasol Dam, and about 240 bird species have been recorded in the garden, which makes it a favourite with birdwatchers. Guided walks have included wildflower, arboretum and waterfall routes, and the Eagle's Fare Restaurant and a gift shop are on site.
The garden suits families, walkers, photographers and birders, and it is one of the best places near the city for a few hours outdoors. Allow at least two to three hours, more if you want to walk the upper paths or have lunch. Weekends are busy with picnickers, so arrive early for parking and quieter paths. Paths near the waterfall involve some uneven ground and steps, so wear good shoes.
Check opening times and entry fees on the SANBI website before you visit, as they are set nationally and change from time to time. The garden is reached by car or ride-hailing app via Malcolm Road in Poortview; there is no convenient public transport. Combine it with a drive through the western suburbs or keep it as a relaxed half-day away from the city's museums.
Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden FAQs
What is the garden known for?
Its waterfall and the pair of Verreaux's eagles that nest on the cliffs beside it.
How big is the garden?
About 300 hectares, with more than 600 indigenous plant species.
How long should I allow?
Two to three hours, or longer with lunch or a walk up to the ridge.
Is there somewhere to eat?
Yes, there is a restaurant on site, and picnics are popular on the lawns.
Is it good for birdwatching?
Yes. About 240 bird species have been recorded, and there is a bird hide over the Sasol Dam.
How do I get there?
By car or ride-hailing app to Malcolm Road in Poortview, Roodepoort.
Where can I check prices and hours?
On the SANBI website, which manages South Africa's national botanical gardens.
When is it busiest?
Sunny weekends, so arrive early.