Company's Garden Cape Town
Cape Town's historic green heart, offering a tranquil escape with abundant wildlife and centuries of history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Company's Garden Cape Town
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Cape Town's historic green heart, offering a tranquil escape with abundant wildlife and centuries of history.
"A beautiful hidden gem in the middle of the city with an amazing atmosphere."
🐿️ Feed the Squirrels
Bring unsalted nuts to feed the friendly squirrels! They're quite accustomed to visitors.
🚶♀️ Stroll and Explore
Take your time to wander through the various paths and discover hidden nooks.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Squirrels
Throughout the garden
Cheeky and abundant, these squirrels are a major draw. Bring nuts for a memorable interaction!
Historical Significance
Throughout the garden
Explore the oldest garden in South Africa, a place of reflection and history.
Rose Garden
Specific section of the garden
A vibrant display of roses, especially stunning when in bloom.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Green Heart of the City
Squirrels and Serenity
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐿️ Feed the Squirrels
Bring unsalted nuts to feed the friendly squirrels! They're quite accustomed to visitors. 
🚶♀️ Stroll and Explore
Take your time to wander through the various paths and discover hidden nooks.
🏛️ Visit Nearby Attractions
Combine your visit with the National Art Gallery, Iziko Museum, or Parliament.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes for exploring.
Tips
from all over the internet
🐿️ Feed the Squirrels
Bring unsalted nuts to feed the friendly squirrels! They're quite accustomed to visitors.
🚶♀️ Stroll and Explore
Take your time to wander through the various paths and discover hidden nooks.
🏛️ Visit Nearby Attractions
Combine your visit with the National Art Gallery, Iziko Museum, or Parliament.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes for exploring.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Capture the beauty of the garden, its wildlife, and historical elements.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise The Company's Garden as a beautiful, historical, and peaceful oasis in the heart of Cape Town. Many highlight the joy of interacting with the abundant squirrels and birds, and appreciate the well-maintained grounds. Some note the presence of homeless individuals, though generally described as non-intrusive.
"What a lovely garden- with so much history safely preserved for generations to come. I love that the original design and integrity of the space has been preserved and is now a place for all to come and enjoy together. Sadly we were rushed during our visit as we were part of a tour group, but would happily come back and spend a few hours wandering and exploring these gorgeous grounds in the centre of Cape Town."
Marjorie
"A very good park for Cape Town. I would even say that the best definition is - a place to relax from the city bustle. Lots of squirrels. We walked there for only half an hour, and met, probably, eight of them"
Sergei Artemenko (We'll help)
"The Company's Garden is more than a pretty garden in the city centre of Cape Town, it is a place of historical reflection of about 400 years of South African history.
The park is well-maintained and there many places to sit and relax in the shade as well as plenty of security.
You will see local birds, fish and squirrels or you can enjoy a meal at the restaurant located in the Gardens.
The South African Parliament is located adjacent to the Gardens as well as the National Art Gallery, Iziko Museum and Planetarium - all must-venues.
Beyond that, there is a wonderful rose garden which is a sight to behold when it's in bloom and you will find that people are generally relaxed and chilled in the Gardens.
Public bathrooms are available and they are reasonable.
The pigeons are characters."
Duncan Alfreds
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Company's Garden is centrally located in Cape Town, making it easily accessible. You can walk from many downtown hotels, take a taxi or ride-sharing service, or use public transport. It's a short distance from major attractions like the V&A Waterfront and Table Mountain Cableway.
While there isn't dedicated parking directly within the garden, several public parking garages are located nearby in the city center. Street parking can also be found, but it may be limited and metered.
Yes, several MyCiTi bus routes stop near the Company's Garden. Check the MyCiTi schedule for routes that serve the city center and drop you off within walking distance.
Absolutely! The Company's Garden is a perfect addition to any Cape Town itinerary, easily combined with other city center attractions for a full day of exploration.
Walking is the best way to experience the Company's Garden. You can also rent bicycles in the city center and cycle through the designated paths.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, The Company's Garden is a public park and is free to enter. You can enjoy its beauty and amenities without any admission fee.
The garden is generally open from sunrise to sunset. Specific hours can vary slightly, but it's typically accessible throughout daylight hours.
While there aren't always official guided tours readily available, you can often find local guides offering tours of the garden and surrounding historical sites.
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own food and drinks for a picnic. There are also restaurants and cafes within or adjacent to the garden.
The main garden areas are free to access. Any specific exhibitions or attractions within the garden grounds would have their own separate entry fees.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can admire diverse plant collections, feed the famous squirrels and birds, visit the rose garden, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. It's also adjacent to museums and historical buildings. +3
Yes, public restrooms are available within the garden premises and are generally well-maintained.
The garden is generally considered safe, with security presence. However, like any urban park, it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings.
Absolutely! The Company's Garden is a popular spot for picnics. There are plenty of benches and grassy areas to relax and enjoy your meal.
Look for the vibrant rose garden, the ancient trees, the ducks on the ponds, and of course, the squirrels! The pathways and historical buildings also offer great photographic opportunities.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a restaurant located within the gardens, offering a place to dine amidst the greenery.
The restaurant typically offers a range of meals, from light snacks to more substantial dishes, often with a focus on local cuisine.
The city center surrounding the garden has numerous cafes and coffee shops, perfect for a pre or post-garden treat.
Yes, bringing your own picnic is a popular option. There are many scenic spots to enjoy your meal.
Packing a picnic is the most budget-friendly option. Alternatively, look for local eateries outside the immediate garden vicinity for more affordable meals.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a golden glow. Midday sun can be harsh.
Squirrels, birds, the rose garden, ancient trees, and the historical architecture surrounding the garden are popular subjects.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage might require permits. Always check local regulations.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for landscapes and general shots. A telephoto lens can be useful for capturing wildlife like birds and squirrels.
It's always polite to ask for permission before taking close-up photos of individuals. Candid shots of people enjoying the garden are generally acceptable.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+2 The garden also offers plenty of open space for kids to run around and explore, making it a great place for a picnic. Consider visiting the nearby museums like the Iziko South African Museum or the Planetarium, which are often a hit with younger visitors and are conveniently located within walking distance. The garden itself provides a safe and engaging environment for children to experience nature within the city.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Reflective Souls
The abundance of nature, from the rustling leaves to the chirping birds and playful squirrels, creates a calming backdrop. It's a place where you can feel connected to the city yet wonderfully removed from its chaos. The safety and accessibility of the garden also make it a comfortable choice for solo exploration.
❤️ Couples and Romantic Getaways
Consider visiting during the late afternoon when the golden hour light casts a magical glow over the garden, making it even more picturesque. It's a wonderful place to escape the city buzz and enjoy some quality time together amidst natural beauty.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Living Piece of History
+1Adjacent to the garden are significant historical and cultural institutions, including the South African Parliament, the National Art Gallery, the Iziko Museum, and the Planetarium. This proximity makes the garden a perfect starting point or a relaxing interlude for exploring the city's heritage. The garden itself houses historical statues and monuments, further enriching the visitor's understanding of the region's past.
Visitors often remark on the garden's ability to preserve its original design and integrity, making it a place for reflection and historical appreciation. It's a space where nature and history intertwine, offering a unique perspective on Cape Town's development.
Wildlife Encounters: Squirrels and Birds
+3Bringing unsalted nuts or seeds is a popular way to engage with the squirrels and birds. This interaction provides a fun and memorable experience, especially for families and children. However, it's important to be mindful and respectful of the animals and the garden's ecosystem. Overfeeding or offering inappropriate food can be harmful.
+1Beyond the squirrels, the garden is a haven for various local bird species. Birdwatchers can enjoy spotting different feathered inhabitants flitting through the trees and along the pathways. The presence of these animals adds a vibrant, dynamic element to the tranquil setting, making a visit to The Company's Garden a truly immersive nature experience within the city.
A Green Oasis for Relaxation and Recreation
The garden's design incorporates various elements that enhance its appeal as a recreational space. The well-maintained rose garden is a particular highlight, especially when in bloom, offering a riot of color and fragrance. Ponds with ducks add to the tranquil ambiance, and the mature trees provide ample shade on sunny days. Many visitors find the atmosphere incredibly calming and restorative.
It's a versatile space that caters to a wide range of activities. From solo contemplation and journaling to romantic strolls and casual meetups with friends, the garden accommodates it all. Its central location also makes it a convenient spot for a quick break during a busy day of sightseeing.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit