Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden is inviting families, nature lovers and visitors of all ages to experience the magic of winter with the return of its much-anticipated Winter Wonders 2026 programme.
Taking place from 27 June to 20 July 2026, the programme brings a seasonal mix of fun and learning for visitors to enjoy in the garden. As always, children aged 17 and under enjoy free entry during the Winter Wonders period.
“Winter Wonders is about creating meaningful, memorable moments in nature, especially for families during the winter school holidays,” says Sarah Struys, Events and Tourism Manager at Kirstenbosch. “With free entry for children and activities that combine creativity, culture and environmental learning, we continue to make Kirstenbosch a space where families can spend time together while connecting with nature.”
Kirstenbosch is known for offering visitors a place to slow down, explore and enjoy nature year-round. During Winter Wonders, families can add to that experience with simple, hands-on activities such as planting indigenous plants to take home, taking part in guided garden walks, or enjoying interactive drumming and marimba lessons.
Children can get creative with rock painting and sand art or explore the nursery through a self-guided scavenger hunt with their parents. The programme is designed to encourage curiosity, creativity and outdoor play, while still allowing visitors to enjoy the garden at their own pace.
Adults can make the most of the winter setting with relaxed walks along the garden’s scenic paths, quiet picnic spots, and warm meals at Kirstenbosch’s popular restaurants. A visit to the Kirstenbosch Bookshop and Gift Shop also offers a chance to find unique gifts and nature-inspired books.
Experience Winter Wonders at Kirstenbosch
Nature, planting, and wonder for the whole family at HAPPY BY NATURE on a daily:
- Pot-a-plant sessions – Childrencan plant their own indigenous plants to take home
- Rock painting tables – Creativewinter fun for curious little artists
- A cozy children’s nature corner with chalkboard wall, art and building blocks
- A self-guided scavenger hunt through the nursery-with a parent
- Space to slow down, explore, create and play
Walking trails, art and music meet nature in winter: Enjoy the African rhythms and creativity at MOYO Restaurant from Tuesdays to Fridays:
- Marimba – Feel the rhythm of Africa in an interactive session
- Drumming – Join the high energy drumming experience
- Sand Art – Get creative with coloured sand artworks
- Guided Garden Walks – Discover the wonders of Kirstenbosch
Guided walks are suitable for children aged 6 – 12 years, only on Tuesdays 30 June and 7 and 14 July 2026 from 12:00 – 13:00.
Each adventure walk gets a complimentary hot chocolate at MOYO to warm up after the walk.
Book your spot on dineplan and for more information email: gianpaolo@botsoc-kirstenbosch.org.za
Important note: For guided walks, meet at Moyo restaurant
The Kirstenbosch Bookshop and Giftshop are offering discounts during the school holidays.
Enjoy Kirstenbosch guided bird walk on Tuesday, 14 July 2026, suitable for all ages and will be led by Felicity Ellmore from the Cape Bird Club.
Kirstenbosch’s finest restaurants
Visitors can warm up and relax with a meal or hot drink at:
- MOYO – A warm South African dining experience
- Fynkos – Perfect for a relaxed lunch
- Vida e Caffé – Enjoy a light meal with a hot beverage of your choice
Plan your visit
Winter Wonders offers families an easy and fun way to spend time outdoors during the school holidays, with a mix of free activities, creative experiences and space to simply enjoy nature.
Visitors are encouraged to plan their visit in advance.
Free entry into the Garden for children aged 17 years and under between 27 June and 20 July 2026. You can also secure your free ticket at the Kirstenbosch ticket office upon arrival.
