Karoo Desert National Botanical Garden, Worcester
The Karoo Desert National Botanical Garden is Africa’s only true succulent or vygie garden: cycads, euphorbias, stemsucculents, desert grapes, spekboom and brilliantly colored mesembryanthemums thrive in its 144 hectares of natural semi-desert vegetation and 10 hectares of landscaped gardens.
The 144 hectare Garden lies at the foot of the Hexriver Mountain range, 120 km north of Cape Town. Only 11 hectares are cultivated and the remaining 134 hectares are comprised of natural vegetation. There are three hiking trails in the natural area.
The most popular time to visit the Garden is during spring, when the annuals and vygies (mesembs) are in flower. The best time to see the spring flowers is from late July till late September.
The Khoisan Kookskerm inside the garden will acquaint you with the various plants used by the Namakwaland people, whether for medicine, cooking or other uses. For a taste of the entire legendary Karoo, follow the Karoo Trail and experience each illustrated region.
Apart from the nearly 70 species of birds around, you will be able to spot the Cape Grey duiker, among other mammals.
At Worcester, pass the R60 (Rabie Ave) intersection with the N1, and the garden is clearly signposted on your left.
Tel: +27 23 347 0785: Hours: Mon – Sun: 07h00 to 19h00; 365 days a year; Roux Road, Panorama, Worcester; GPS Co-ordinates: 19°27’01.7″E 33°37’00.2″S, Long 19.44976 Lat -33.61217
| More info on the town of Worcester | More info on the Breede Valley area |
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