The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) brings the return of National Gardens Week, offering free access to South Africans and residents to its national botanical and zoological gardens to showcase some of the lesser-known gardens.
National Gardens Week 2026 builds on the momentum of its 2025 debut, which saw more than 126 000 South Africans step into SANBI’s 11 national botanical and two zoological gardens to reconnect with nature, families, and local communities. This year, the celebration returns with a renewed invitation to explore South Africa’s extraordinary biodiversity under the theme: “Your free passport to nature: celebrate, restore, and protect all life.”
As the third most biodiverse country in the world, South Africa is home to over 95,000 known species, many of which are found nowhere else. National Gardens Week offers an opportunity for South Africans of all ages and backgrounds to experience this natural wealth first-hand, while learning why biodiversity conservation matters for our wellbeing, livelihoods, and future generations.
Across SANBI’s gardens, visitors can look forward to a rich programme of activities that blend learning, relaxation, and discovery. These include guided walks, bird and insect observation, plant sales, wellness activities, and hands-on conservation education. From flowering displays to opportunities to learn about medicinal plants and water-wise gardening, every garden offers a unique window into South Africa’s living landscapes.
Following Garden Week, the Pretoria Zoo offers a special discounted entrance fee of R26 applies for South African citizens and residents over the weekend of 14 and 15 March 2026. The discounted fee continues the celebration of the zoo’s 126-year legacy, marking more than a century of conservation, research, and public education in the heart of Pretoria.
To claim the free or discounted entry fee, South African citizens and residents must show proof of South African residency, e.g. their ID, a certified paper copy of their ID, an electronic copy of their ID or their driver’s licence.