Cape Town: Company’s Garden Guided Walking Tour

Highlights

• Immerse yourself in the history of Cape Town on a guided walking tour
• Explore the Company’s Garden, the oldest garden in South Africa
• Discover the garden's origins and its role in Cape Town's development
• See the oldest cultivated pear tree in South Africa, planted in 1652
• Spot birds and small animals that have integrated into the garden

Description

Step into Cape Town’s green heart and living history book on this curated 1.5-hour walking tour through the iconic Company’s Garden. Tucked into the city’s central business district, this national heritage site is the oldest garden in South Africa, established in 1652 by the Dutch East India Company to grow fresh produce for settlers and passing ships. Begin your journey with the origins of the Garden. Learn how Jan van Riebeeck’s crew and the Dutch East India Company chose this site beside natural springs from Table Mountain to feed early settlers and resupply ships. Hear about the first plantings of vegetables and herbs — from spinach and cabbage to wheat and asparagus — and how these humble beginnings helped shape Cape Town’s early survival and growth. Move into the botanical wonders that dot the garden today. See the oldest cultivated pear tree in South Africa (planted around 1652) and discover how ornamental and medicinal plants were introduced over the centuries. Explore themed sections including the rose garden, herb and succulent zones, the fish pond and shaded tree avenues laid out for both beauty and scientific interest. Learn how the garden evolved from practical crop plots into a rich botanical tapestry with species from Europe, India and beyond. Company’s Garden is far from just plants — it’s alive. Spot and learn about the birds and small animals that have integrated into the garden ecosystem, from African turtle doves and Egyptian geese to cheeky squirrels. Understand how urban green spaces support biodiversity and offer respite for both wildlife and city visitors. Wander past memorials, sculptures and heritage landmarks. The Dellville Wood Memorial Garden commemorates South Africans lost in World War I. Discover statues, fountains, and architectural features that tell stories of colonial, cultural and civic history. Learn how surrounding structures — like the Iziko Museums, South African Museum and National Gallery — tie into the garden’s story as a cultural hub. Throughout the walk, hear how the Company’s Garden played a central role in Cape Town’s urban development, becoming a botanical showcase, a public park, and a green sanctuary amidst city life. Relate to nearby historical sites — from Parliament and Tuynhuys to the Slave Lodge and St George’s Cathedral — making it a perfect starting point for deeper exploration of Cape Town’s heritage.

Includes

Guided walking narration by expert local guide Stories of people, plants, animals, and culture Highlights of key trees, monuments & wildlife Tips for exploring adjacent museums and heritage sites

Important Information

• The tour is 1.5 hours long The tour takes place in the Company's Garden, a national heritage site in Cape Town The garden was established in 1652 by the Dutch East India Company The tour includes historical, botanical, and cultural insights

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund