Company's Garden Cape Town
A historic urban oasis in Cape Town, offering lush gardens, friendly wildlife, and a peaceful escape.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Safer and less crowded
Company's Garden Cape Town
Best Time
Safer and less crowded

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic urban oasis in Cape Town, offering lush gardens, friendly wildlife, and a peaceful escape.
"The real stars are the squirrels. They’re super friendly and practically tame!"
🐿️ Feed the Squirrels
Bring nuts to feed the friendly squirrels! They're a highlight for many visitors.
🚶♀️ Explore with Caution
Visit during daylight hours. Some find the area less safe at night. Uber is recommended for transport.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Friendly Squirrel Encounters
Throughout the gardens
Tame squirrels are a delightful surprise, eager to take nuts from your hand. A truly unique and charming experience!

The Company's Garden Restaurant
Central garden area
Enjoy a meal or coffee amidst the greenery, with a tree-shaded terrace offering a relaxing ambiance.
Historical Monuments & Ponds
Various locations within the gardens
Discover charming monuments and serene ponds, adding a touch of history and tranquility to your stroll.
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Green Heart of the City
Navigating the Gardens & Beyond
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐿️ Feed the Squirrels
Bring nuts to feed the friendly squirrels! They're a highlight for many visitors.
🚶♀️ Explore with Caution
Visit during daylight hours. Some find the area less safe at night. Uber is recommended for transport.
☕ Enjoy the Cafe
The cafe offers a nice spot for a break, though some reviews suggest food can be pricey for the quality.
🎨 Art & Events
Check for local art classes or festivals held in the gardens.
Tips
from all over the internet
🐿️ Feed the Squirrels
Bring nuts to feed the friendly squirrels! They're a highlight for many visitors.
🚶♀️ Explore with Caution
Visit during daylight hours. Some find the area less safe at night. Uber is recommended for transport.
☕ Enjoy the Cafe
The cafe offers a nice spot for a break, though some reviews suggest food can be pricey for the quality.
🎨 Art & Events
Check for local art classes or festivals held in the gardens.
🌳 Picnic Spot
A lovely place for a picnic, especially on a sunny day.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Company's Garden is a beloved green oasis in Cape Town, praised for its tranquil atmosphere, beautiful flora, and the unique charm of its friendly, tame squirrels. Visitors enjoy the peaceful environment for strolls and picnics, and the on-site cafe offers a pleasant spot to relax. However, some find the restaurant's food to be mediocre and overpriced, and a few mention concerns about safety in the surrounding CBD area, advising daytime visits.
"Such a lovely spot! The Company’s Garden in Cape Town is a peaceful park surrounded by beautiful nature. The cafe is nice , there are ducks in the pond, and even a few charming monuments to wander past—but the real stars are the squirrels. They’re super friendly and practically tame! Definitely worth a visit if you love animals and a cozy outdoor vibe."
Anastasia Travkina
"Had the 'bacon, egg and cheddar sandwich' and a cortado. The sandwich was good but nothing special. The cortado wasn't good. They have a nice La Marzocco espresso machine, but it tasted like instant. My friend's cappuccino was similar. Service was friendly but we would be forgotten about sometimes. The location is nice in the Company's Gardens. The restaurant is pricey for what it is."
Ashlin S
"✍ 29/07/2025
The hidden gem of the Company Gardens ☕🥮🍰
Thank you Magnificent and Team for the great experience and I appreciate the warm welcome as always.
I loved the Chai Latte and chocolate cake ❤"
Nadia Samsodien
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Company's Garden is located in the heart of Cape Town's CBD. You can easily reach it by car, taxi, or ride-sharing services like Uber. Public transport options are also available, though some travelers recommend Uber for safety and convenience.
Parking can be found nearby, but it might be limited during peak hours.While the gardens themselves are a public space, some Reddit users have noted that the surrounding area might not always feel safe, especially after dark.
It's generally advised to visit during daylight hours and consider using Uber for transportation to and from the gardens for added security.From Company's Garden, you can easily access other parts of the city. Uber is a popular and relatively affordable option for getting around Cape Town.
For exploring the CBD on foot, consider a free walking tour, but remember to tip your guide.Yes, various MyCiTi bus routes serve the CBD area, making it accessible via public transport. Check the MyCiTi schedule for routes and stops closest to the gardens. However, for directness and ease, many visitors opt for ride-sharing services.
There are several parking garages and street parking options in the vicinity of Company's Garden. However, parking can be competitive, especially during business hours or when events are taking place. Arriving early or considering alternative transport is advisable.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to The Company's Garden itself is free! It's a public park meant for everyone to enjoy. However, specific events or workshops held within the gardens, like art classes, may have associated costs and require booking.
The Company's Garden is generally open to the public during daylight hours. While there aren't strict closing times posted like a museum, it's best to visit during the day to enjoy the park safely and fully.
There are no entrance fees to wander through The Company's Garden. It's a beautiful, free public space for relaxation and exploration.
Yes, various organizations host events, workshops, and art classes within The Company's Garden. Keep an eye on local event listings or the social media of organizations like IPAF SA
for booking information.Event times vary. For instance, art classes might be scheduled for specific afternoons,
and festivals like IPAF have designated dates and times. It's best to check event schedules in advance.🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy a leisurely stroll, feed the friendly squirrels,
visit the historical monuments, relax by the ponds, and dine at the on-site restaurant. It's also a popular spot for picnics and sometimes hosts art workshops.Yes, the gardens are famous for their abundance of friendly squirrels that are accustomed to visitors and often approach for food.
You might also spot various bird species.Absolutely! Company's Garden is a wonderful spot for a picnic. Many visitors enjoy bringing their own food and finding a nice spot under the trees.
The gardens feature several historical monuments and statues, including the Cecil Rhodes statue and the South African Jewish Museum. It's a place where history and nature intertwine.
Yes, Company's Garden offers beautiful scenery for photography, from lush greenery and flowers to charming monuments and playful squirrels.
The natural light filtering through the trees creates lovely photo opportunities.🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There is a restaurant located within The Company's Garden that offers meals, coffee, and drinks. It has a tree-shaded terrace, providing a pleasant dining atmosphere.
Reviews are mixed. While the location and ambiance are praised, some visitors find the food to be mediocre or overpriced for the quality, suggesting it's better for a quick break than a full culinary experience.
The restaurant typically serves cafe-style fare, including sandwiches, light meals, and beverages like coffee and juice blends. They also offer cakes and pastries.
Yes, the gardens are in the CBD, which has numerous cafes, restaurants, and eateries. You can find a wide variety of dining options within walking distance if you prefer to explore beyond the garden's restaurant.
Yes, bringing your own food for a picnic is a popular option and a great way to enjoy the gardens without the cost of the on-site restaurant.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for the charming monuments, the serene ponds, the lush greenery, and of course, the playful squirrels.
The natural light filtering through the trees creates a beautiful atmosphere for photos.Definitely! The squirrels are very approachable and make for fun subjects. Capturing them interacting with visitors or with nuts can lead to some great shots.
Morning light is often ideal for soft, natural lighting. Late afternoon can also offer beautiful golden hour hues. Avoid midday sun if possible, as it can create harsh shadows.
Drone usage in public parks is often restricted due to privacy and safety regulations. It's best to check with local authorities or park management before attempting to fly a drone.
The combination of historical statues, manicured gardens, and the lively squirrels offers unique photo opportunities. Keep an eye out for any temporary art installations or events that might add to the visual appeal.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing a picnic to make the most of your visit. It's a more relaxed and budget-friendly option than dining at the restaurant, and kids often enjoy eating outdoors. While the gardens are generally safe during the day, always keep a close eye on young children, especially near the ponds or busier pathways.
💰 Budget Travelers
For transportation, consider using public transport like the MyCiTi bus service to reach the gardens, which is typically cheaper than ride-sharing services. If you do opt for Uber, sharing the ride with fellow travelers can help reduce costs. Walking tours of the CBD are also a great way to see the city on a budget, just remember to tip your guide.
couples
Consider bringing a picnic basket and finding a secluded bench for a more intimate experience. The gardens are also a beautiful backdrop for photography, allowing you to capture cherished memories of your time in Cape Town. Visiting during a weekday morning can offer a more serene and less crowded atmosphere.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of Company's Garden
Today, the garden is a living museum, showcasing a diverse collection of indigenous and exotic plants. It's a vital green lung in the city center, offering a peaceful retreat from the urban hustle. The garden is also home to several important historical buildings and monuments, including the South African Jewish Museum, the National Gallery, and the Houses of Parliament, making it a hub of culture and history.
Many visitors are surprised by the garden's rich past and its role in shaping Cape Town's development. It's a place where you can literally walk through history, surrounded by the beauty of nature. The presence of tame squirrels, a beloved feature for many, adds a whimsical touch to this historically significant site.
Wildlife Encounters: The Famous Squirrels
While feeding the squirrels is a popular activity, it's always good practice to be mindful of wildlife. Bringing unsalted nuts is generally recommended. The squirrels' boldness is a testament to the garden's welcoming atmosphere and the positive interactions they've had with visitors over the years. It’s a simple yet memorable experience that adds a unique character to the garden.
Beyond the squirrels, the garden also attracts various bird species, contributing to its tranquil and natural ambiance. The ponds and diverse plant life create a habitat that supports a small ecosystem within the city center, offering a glimpse of nature's resilience.
Navigating Safety and Transportation
For getting to and from the gardens, Uber is frequently recommended by travelers as a safe and convenient option. It offers a reliable way to navigate Cape Town, especially if you're concerned about walking alone or finding parking. Public transport, such as the MyCiTi bus service, is also available and can be a more budget-friendly choice, but requires more planning regarding routes and schedules.
If you choose to explore the CBD on foot, consider joining a free walking tour. These tours are a great way to learn about the city's history and landmarks, but remember to tip your guide. For those staying nearby, walking can be an option, but always be aware of your surroundings and stick to well-lit, populated areas.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit