Discover the beauty of a Cape Town park, where nature meets urban charm. Each park has a unique landscape and many recreational opportunities. Dive into the historic Company’s Garden, a green oasis in the city’s heart, or explore another park’s pristine beauty. Uncover the top parks in Cape Town, ideal for hiking, picnicking, birdwatching, and unwinding in nature’s wonders. Let’s take a look at the parks Cape Town holds dear and enjoy the city’s enchanting green spaces.
Table of Contents
The list below is in no particular order. Each entry is equally celebrated for their achievements, and the sequence of names is arbitrary, not indicating any ranking or preference.
Don’t Forget To Rent A Car So You Can Get The Full Gardens And Parks Experience! 🌻
Rondebosch Park🌳
Rondebosch Park captivates nature enthusiasts with its rich biodiversity and serene environment. With oak, plane, and pine trees, the park offers a setting ideal for strolls and delightful picnics. This sanctuary serves as a hub, hosting events like carols by candlelight and captivating plays, infusing the park with lively energy.
Rondebosch Park also transforms into a bustling marketplace on the second Saturday of the month, showcasing local talent at an art and craft market with fresh produce and handcrafted treasures. Adding to its allure, the park is home to the bi-annual Potter’s Market, an eagerly anticipated event spotlighting skilled potters’ exquisite creations, seasoned artists, and emerging talents.
Opening Hours For Rondebosch Park: 8 am to 6 pm
Address: Cnr Campground and Sandown Roads, Rondebosch
Website: https://www.capetown.gov.za
Contact Number: 021 444 1697
Kirstenbosch Gardens 🌄
Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden is known globally as one of the premier botanic gardens, Kirstenbosch will take your breath away with its breathtaking landscape that blends flora with the majestic Table Mountain. The garden is best for art enthusiasts, offering a canvas where nature’s beauty meets human creativity. Throughout the year, Kirstenbosch hosts a plethora of art exhibitions, ranging from outdoor displays that grace the gardens for both short and extended durations to captivating indoor shows in various venues within the botanical haven.
Regardless of the season, Kirstenbosch promises a spectacular sight with its ever-changing array of flowers and captivating plant life. Each visit unveils a new charm, but to witness the fynbos and witness a kaleidoscope of blooms, the ideal time to explore is towards the end of winter, in spring, or during the early days of summer, spanning from August to November. Kirstenbosch Gardens is perfect for tourists and locals to immerse themselves in the peaceful blend of botanical wonders and artistic expressions, creating an unforgettable experience at the intersection of nature and creativity in the heart of Cape Town.
Kirstenbosch Gardens Opening Hours: Every day from 8 am to 7 pm during summer (September to March), 8 am to 6 pm during winter (April to August)
Address: Rhodes Dr, Newlands, Cape Town
Website: https://www.sanbi.org/gardens/kirstenbosch/
Contact Number: 012 843 5000
Ardene Gardens 🎋
Ardene Gardens stands as an enchanting five-hectare plot, drawing families and couples seeking serenity and natural beauty. Revered by Capetonians, this park/ garden in Cape Town exudes a romantic feeling, adorned with shady glades and secluded corners, and can act as a backdrop for wedding photoshoots. Its hallmark lies in the exceptional array of trees and shrubs, notably the majestic Moreton Bay Fig, fondly dubbed the “Wedding Tree,” an iconic treasure within South Africa’s diverse flora.
Ardene Gardens offers a range of amenities, ensuring a delightful visit for all. Visitors can revel in water features, explore specialized gardens, and traverse footpaths and trails winding through its lush landscape. The park’s provisions, including public toilets, ample parking, and pet-friendly policies, cater to the varied needs of its patrons, elevating Ardene Gardens into an idyllic retreat for nature lovers and a cherished gem within Cape Town’s urban landscape.
Opening Hours for The Ardene Gardens: Monday to Sunday from 8 am to 6 pm
Address:222 Main Road Claremont, Cape Town
Website: https://www.ardernegardens.org.za/
Contact Number: 021 444 8849
De Waal Park 🦗
In the cityscape of Cape Town, De Waal Park stands as a peaceful sanctuary beneath the majestic Table Mountain. Embraced by diverse communities, it serves as a cherished gathering spot for an eclectic mix of Capetonians. Here, the park’s allure beckons slack-rope walkers, picnickers, bird aficionados, runners, and families, creating a vibrant tapestry of activities.
Furry companions find joy in the pond surrounding the elegant Victorian fountain, offering a refreshing respite during warm summer days, while children revel in playful escapades on swings and roundabouts. Notably, the park hosts the beloved Summer Concerts series, a highlight on Sunday afternoons from March to April, captivating audiences with free musical performances ranging from classical harmonies to rock melodies. De Waal Park’s charm extends beyond leisure, offering amenities such as water features, winding footpaths, verdant gardens, public conveniences, and a dedicated play area—welcoming both two-legged and four-legged visitors to savour moments of tranquillity amidst urban life’s hustle and bustle.
Opening Hours for De Waal Park: Daily in September to March from 6:30 am to 8 pm and in April to August from 7 am to 6 pm
Address: Upper Orange Road, Gardens
Website: https://www.capetown.gov.za
Contact Number:021 444 3784
Durbanville Rose Garden🌹
Located within Durbanville’s scenic landscape, the renowned Durbanville Rose Garden stands as a cherished treasure, celebrated for its beauty and accolades. An integral part of the area’s charm, this garden is a sought-after destination, particularly during the summer, revered for its captivating allure ideal for timeless wedding photography. Meticulously tended to year-round by a dedicated team of six council gardeners, the garden boasts a mesmerizing collection of roses, yet prohibits public picking to preserve its splendor.
Visitors relish strolls along the garden’s footpaths, designed for ease of access while revelling in the hues and fragrant blossoms. Noteworthy amenities include disability access, ample parking, and public conveniences, ensuring a delightful experience for all who explore this enchanting sanctuary. Like all gardens in Cape Town, the Durbanville Rose Garden stands as a testament to nature’s beauty and serves as a safe space for locals and tourists, embracing the essence of floral magnificence within the heart of Durbanville.
Opening Hours for Durbanville Rose Garden: Monday to Sunday from 7 am to 6 pm
Address: Durban Road, Durbanville
Website: https://www.capetown.gov.za
Contact Number: 021 976 3414
Jack Muller Park🌲
Set next to Bellville’s bustling N1 highway, Jack Muller Park, also known as Danie Uys Park, emerges as a pivotal green space within the Durban Road activity corridor. It forms an integral part of the Elsieskraal River corridor, contributing to a vital green node in the area. This multifaceted park serves as a versatile venue, hosting a spectrum of outdoor events—ranging from corporate functions to lively concerts, kiddies parties, and charitable fundraisers—enlivening its expansive, lush lawns frequented by enthusiastic runners.
Visitors are greeted by an array of amenities, including a theatre for cultural gatherings, and an outdoor gym area promoting active lifestyles, It is also one of the best picnic spots in Cape Town with ample picnic facilities inviting leisurely moments amid nature’s embrace. From play areas for children to footpaths and trails for exploration, along with public toilets and convenient parking, Jack Muller Park caters to diverse interests, epitomizing a dynamic blend of recreation and community engagement in Bellville’s urban landscape.
Opening Hours for Jack Muller Park: Monday to Sunday from 6 am to 6 pm
Address: Frans Conradie Drive, Bellville
Website: https://www.capetown.gov.za
Contact Number: 021 400 5769
Keurboom Park ☁️
Keurboom Park, spanning 45 hectares, stands as a vital cornerstone for the local community, offering a spectrum of economic, social, and recreational advantages while fostering ecotourism and environmental education initiatives. Embracing a harmonious blend of nature and leisure, the park boasts winding trails catering to joggers and cyclists, welcoming furry companions as a pet-friendly haven.
This dynamic space thrives as a family-centric destination, adorned with African mosaic murals that infuse cultural richness, alongside a vibrant playground and a skate park, catering to the varied interests of families and the youth. With essential amenities such as footpaths and trails for exploration, ample parking, public toilets, and an inclusive policy for animals, Keurboom Park stands as a holistic retreat, inviting all to revel in its natural beauty and engaging recreational offerings.
Opening Hours for Keurboom Park: Monday to Sunday from 6 am to 6 pm
Address: Squirrels Way, Rondebosch, Cape Town
Website: http://keurboompark.org.za/index.htm
Contact Number: 083 284 3388
The Company’s Garden 🗿
All the gardens Cape Town holds dear are steeped in historical significance and stand as a testament to the city’s rich heritage. Originating in 1652 The Company’s Garden under the auspices of the Dutch East India Company was made to make provision for their ships, this iconic garden adjoins several revered landmarks. Alongside the lodge house for historical city builders, it neighbours the Houses of Parliament, the Iziko South African Museum, and St. George’s Cathedral, among others.
This verdant expanse serves as a cultural nucleus, housing the National Library, the South African National Gallery, and the Great Synagogue, culminating in Tuynhuys, a venue reserved for state events by the President. The Company’s Garden, adorned with water features and lush greenery, invites visitors to explore its paths and trails, offering an escape. With a restaurant, specialist gardens, and essential amenities like public toilets, it remains a cherished historical oasis amid Cape Town’s bustling landscape.
Opening Hours for The Company’s Garden: Daily in September to March from 06:30 am to 8 pm and in April to August from 7 am to 6 pm
Address: 19 Queen Victoria Street, Cape Town
Website: https://www.capetown.gov.za
Contact Number: 021 444 1901
Green Point Park ⚽
The Green Point Urban Park is a practical and versatile recreational space, showing the city’s commitment to accessible green areas. With a strategic sea-facing location, fitness amenities, and a well-contained playground, the park caters to a variety of activities, from relaxation to exercise, it has become a favourite among locals. Families, in particular, find the park accommodating, with large grassy areas, a secure cycling path along the water, and a gated playground equipped with swings, jungle gyms, slides, and tunnels.
The Green Point Park features a biodiversity garden showcasing a large variety of plant species and fostering local flora and fauna. The “wetland walk” provides an educational observation point for waterbirds in their natural habitat, while the “biodiversity trail” engages visitors with art installations, statues, and informative boards. This integration of nature and education shows the city’s commitment to environmental awareness. Whether it be a winter stroll amongst the park’s peaceful atmosphere or a summer picnic on its well-maintained lawns, the Green Point Urban Park serves as a practical and educational retreat for all.
Opening Hours: 7 am to 7 pm
Address: 1 Fritz Sonnenberg Rd, Green Point, Cape Town
Babylonstoren Garden 🧺
With 3.5 hectares of fruit and vegetables, the Babylonstoren Garden stands as the main core of the farm, drawing inspiration from the historical Company’s Garden in Cape Town. This garden showcases its history of supplying fresh produce to Dutch East India Company sailing ships during the Cape’s days as a pivotal halfway station between Europe and Asia. There is a daily Garden Tour, commencing at 10 am in front of the Farm Shop, which beckons visitors to find themselves in the beautiful surroundings, guided by experienced gardeners who encourage exploration through picking, tasting, smelling, and touching.
Babylonstoren restricts pet entry to ensure the birds and other small creatures are left in peace. However, guide dogs are welcome. The garden’s pathways, with peach pips in some areas, offer an earthy and textured charm. Visitors are advised to equip themselves with comfortable shoes, a summer hat, and, for the winter, winter boots and an umbrella. Access to the garden, whether for a delectable lunch or an enriching garden tour, includes an entrance fee, showing the value placed on the amazing experience that Babylonstoren Garden offers its visitors.
Babylonstoren Opening Hours: 8 am to 5 pm
Address: Babylonstoren, Klapmuts Simondium Road, Simondium
Website: https://babylonstoren.com/
Contact Number: 021 863 3852
Stellenbosch University Botanical Garden 🪷
The Stellenbosch University Botanical Garden proudly stands as the oldest university botanical garden in South Africa. With local habitats, conservation imperatives, South African biomes, and an extensive array of plants, including medicinal varieties, the Stellenbosch Botanical Garden blends educational exhibits with natural beauty. Beyond its public accessibility, the garden serves as research and taxon collections, contributing to the academic endeavours of Stellenbosch University.
The Katjiepiering Restaurant, located within this horticultural haven, provides a retreat for visitors to savour moments in these stunning surroundings. The Stellenbosch Garden Gift Shop completes the visitor experience with an extensive range of botanical products. Visitors are encouraged to engage with the garden responsibly, adhering to the principles outlined by this botanical institution, which not only fosters a deep appreciation for the flora on display but also underscores the importance of respectful interaction with both nature and the dedicated staff who curate and maintain this botanical gem.
Stellenbosch University Botanical Garden Opening Hours: Summer from 8 am to 5 pm during every day (Monday to Sunday), including public holidays except New Year’s Day and Easter Friday. Winter from 8 am to 5 pm (09 May – 31 August), every day (Monday to Sunday)
Address: Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, Matieland, Stellenbosch
Website: https://www.sun.ac.za/english/entities/botanical-garden
Contact Number: 021 808 9111
Kalk Bay Park 🛶
Kalk Bay’s Main Road, Lever Street Park, commonly known as Kalk Bay Park, stands as a meticulously maintained park, cared for by the local community. Offering a pristine and family-friendly atmosphere, the park features well-kept play structures for children, including a high slide, swings, mary-go-round, jungle gym, and a see-saw. The lush lawn serves as a space for various activities, from hillside rolls to children exploring the area on bikes. Pet owners will find the park accommodating, with free dog poo bags available at Bob’s Bagel Cafe. Beneath the shade of a towering tree, visitors can relax, enjoying views of the Atlantic Ocean, making Kalk Bay Park a retreat for both families and individuals.
Address: 10 Rouxville Rd, St James, Cape Town
The Gardens at The Vineyard Hotel 🐢
The Vineyard Hotel offers a 90-minute guided garden walk tour that includes botanical knowledge and engaging moments. Open from April to December, these tours show an ever-changing spectacle of plants, flowers, and trees, promising a pleasant display each month. Guests also will encounter the subtle melodies of well-camouflaged birds, lively squirrels, and the graceful presence of eight resident tortoises. Designed in the early 1980s by landscape architect Anne Sutton, the lush grounds also showcase water features that enhance the natural beauty, and large, naturally scattered rocks collected by the late owner, Francois Petousis, from across the peninsula, reflecting his passion for geology.
The Gardens at The Vineyard Hotel Times: The walk starts at 9:30 am
Address: Colinton Road, Newlands, Cape Town
Website: https://www.vineyard.co.za/garden-walks/
Contact Number: 021 657 4500
Trafalgar Park 🏞️
Trafalgar Park, a revered UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1968, is a living testament to history’s embrace within the urban landscape. Set within its bounds lies the French Redoubt, a cherished remnant of the city’s ancient fortifications, preserving the essence of a bygone era. This park embodies a rich cultural heritage while offering a tranquil sanctuary for children’s play and a peaceful escape for nearby workers seeking strolls.
Its offerings are as varied as they are enriching, featuring a swimming pool for recreation, well-equipped play areas, and verdant gardens welcoming relaxation and contemplation. Essential amenities, including public toilets, footpaths, and ample parking, cater to visitors’ needs. With its open grassy expanses and inclusive policy for animals, Trafalgar Park extends a warm invitation to all, honouring history while fostering a harmonious blend of recreation and heritage appreciation.
Opening Hours for Trafalgar Park: Monday to Sunday from 6 am to 6 pm
Address: Corner Victoria Road and Searle Street, Woodstock
Website: https://www.capetown.gov.za
Contact Number: 021 481 1900
Wynberg Park ⛰
Located at the inception of the Krakeelwater River, Wynberg Park stands as a perennial attraction, revered for its natural beauty and seasonal delights. From its captivating conifer garden to the vibrant showcase of hydrangeas during summer, this park offers a visual feast for visitors year-round. Ideal for picnics and braais, the park boasts amenities like a serene duck pond and a children’s playground, ensuring a delightful outing for families.
Wynberg Park bustles with life as the City’s Come and Play teams curate a spectrum of activities, from extreme sports demonstrations to stage performances and engaging games for all ages. An annual highlight is the park’s summer concerts so if you’re in the mood for a great Cape Town concert visit it. The park will envelop visitors in melodious tunes amid its stunning surroundings, adding to the park’s vibe as a cherished hub for recreation and community engagement throughout the seasons.
Opening Hours for Wynberg Park: Monday to Sunday from 7 am to 6 pm
Address: Corner Klaassens and Trovato Link Road, Wynberg
Website: https://www.capetown.gov.za
Contact Number: 021 444 8849
Two Rivers Urban Park 🏞
Two Rivers Urban Park (TRUP) stands as a testament to a comprehensive seven-year public engagement process, fostering collaboration among landowners and stakeholders within its boundaries. Located at the confluence of the Liesbeek and Black Rivers, this expansive 240-hectare park is a vital urban green lung within Cape Town. TRUP is a diverse mosaic of sensitive ecological systems, vast open spaces, historical edifices, and cultural landscapes.
The Two Rivers Urban Park Association spearheads efforts to preserve its ecological integrity, conserve its rich cultural heritage, facilitate environmental education, and foster sustainable development. Open to the public, the park’s riverine and wetland areas attract walkers, joggers, cyclists, and horse riders seeking recreation amid its natural splendour. Accessible from various points such as Liesbeek Parkway, Park Road, and Perseverance Road, TRUP serves as a dynamic sanctuary catering to diverse interests while promoting environmental stewardship and community engagement within Cape Town’s urban fabric.
Opening Hours for Two Rivers Urban Park: Monday to Sunday 24/7
Address:1 Observatory Rd, Observatory, Cape Town
Website: https://trup.org.za/about/
Rugley Road Park 💐
Rugley Road Park boasts a quaint fenced playground with an array of attractions catering to children. While the equipment might show signs of ageing, its charm remains intact, offering an array of delightful activities. Kids revel in the swings, carousel, jungle gym, climbing zones, see-saws, and a thrilling bike track perfect for little scooters and bicycles.
Parents can unwind at the shaded picnic table beneath a tree, ideal for snacking or hosting intimate birthday celebrations. Families with furry companions will delight in the adjacent fenced dog park, providing a space for pets to frolic and play. Adjacent, a basketball court awaits, although unofficially off-limits. Keen eyes may spot a hole in the fence, providing a secret gateway for enthusiasts to enjoy a few rounds of basketball, adding an extra element of excitement to this cherished neighbourhood spot.
Opening Hours for Rugley Road Park: Monday to Sunday 24/7
Address: Rugley Road, Gardens, Cape Town
Van Riebeeck Park 🚶🏻♂️
Van Riebeeck Park, on the slopes of Table Mountain in Oranjezicht, Cape Town, stands as a beloved sanctuary cherished by locals and visitors alike. This public park offers an escape, captivating visitors with its stunning natural beauty and panoramic views. Enveloped by the lush greenery of Table Mountain’s slopes, Van Riebeeck Park provides a perfect setting for strolls, peaceful picnics, and moments of quiet contemplation.
Its well-maintained pathways invite exploration, while strategically placed benches offer ideal spots to soak in the breathtaking vistas. Whether seeking a peaceful retreat in nature’s embrace or admiring the cityscape below, this much-loved park captivates with its scenic allure and serves as a cherished haven for relaxation and rejuvenation amidst the splendour of Table Mountain’s slopes in Oranjezicht, Cape Town.
Opening Hours for Van Riebeeck Park: Monday to Sunday 24/7
Address: 280 Upper Buitenkant St, Vredehoek, Cape Town
Kloof Street Park 🤸🏻♂️
Kloof Street Park spans 1.9 acres, offering a charming retreat for locals and tourists alike. This park in Cape Town is perfect for strolls and family bonding, it boasts a peaceful environment and ample space for various activities. Its defining feature includes a lovely row of trees that accentuate its natural beauty, creating a pleasant atmosphere for relaxation.
Apart from its scenic allure, Kloof Street Park features a well-maintained playground, providing an engaging space for children to play and explore. Essential amenities like restrooms ensure convenience for visitors enjoying the park’s offerings. Whether revelling in the quiet of nature or engaging in family-friendly activities, Kloof Street Park stands as a delightful urban oasis, inviting all to embrace its beauty and leisure opportunities in the heart of Cape Town.
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday 24/7
Address: Kloof Street, Gardens, Cape Town
Homestead Park 🌼
Homestead Park, in the heart of Oranjezicht, stands as a charming and secure playground, offering a delightful place for both children and furry friends. Open to dog owners, the park provides ample space for kids and dogs to frolic freely, highlighted by a colossal wooden jungle gym at its centre. This well-equipped playground boasts swings, a towering slide, a merry-go-round, and various climbing features, ensuring endless entertainment for little ones.
While kids immerse themselves in play, parents can relax on benches and indulge in refreshments from Ou Meul, conveniently located nearby. Although slightly older, the play area maintains a good condition, guaranteeing a safe environment for children’s enjoyment. However, on windy days, the mountain breeze might deter visits, making sunny and warm days ideal for maximizing the park’s offerings. Homestead Park remains a cherished destination for family fun and furry companions’ adventures in the heart of Oranjezicht.
Opening Hours for Homestead Park: Monday to Sunday 24/7
Address: Homestead, Orangezicht, Cape Town
Contact Number: 021 590 1900
Take On A Cape Peninsula And Kisternbosch Botanical Garden Tour Today! 🚶♀️
Enjoy lush landscapes at a cape town garden, take your children to playgrounds, and enjoy amenities for picnics, sports, and nature walks. Explore historic sites like The Company’s Garden or revel in community events at Rondebosch Park. Whether seeking tranquillity or active adventures, Cape Town’s parks offer something for everyone. Embrace the beauty, perfect for unwinding or creating lasting memories amidst nature’s splendour in this captivating South African city.
