Harold Porter National Botanical Garden

Harold Porter National Botanical Garden Review

Harold Porter National Botanical Garden is a 440-acre nature reserve in the heart of the coastal fynbos, where the Cape floral kingdom is at its richest. The profusion of plants supports 78 species of birds and a wide range of small mammals, including large troops of chacma baboons. You couldn't ask for a more fantastic setting, cradled between the Atlantic and the towering peaks of the 3,000-foot Kogelberg Range. Walking trails wind through the reserve and into the mountains via Disa and Leopard's kloofs, which echo with the sound of waterfalls. Back at the main buildings, a pleasant restaurant serves light meals and teas. Book ahead for a volunteer guide to take you around the gardens, for which a donation is welcome. To get to the garden from the penguin colony, return to Porter Drive and turn right to rejoin the R44. Drive another 2 km (1 mi) to get here.