Company's Garden, Cape Town

The Company's Garden was created in the 1650s and is the oldest garden in South Africa. European settlers established the garden to grow fresh produce for themselves and resupply ships. By 1653 the garden enabled the settlers to be self-sustaining.

Today, the Company's Garden is a beautiful spot to relax and enjoy this fantastic green space in the heart of the city.

The Garden hosts the South African Museum, the Cape Town Holocaust Centre, and the South African National Gallery.

There are many interesting features in the Company Garden. A pear tree planted in 1652 is still growing in the garden and is the oldest cultivated tree in South Africa. The Rutherford fountain was placed here in 1864. Visitors will be fascinated by the well pump embedded in an oak tree; it was placed here in 1842.

The bamboo plantation is over 150 years old, and there are distinctive trees like a Ginko tree and a rubber tree. Additionally, you'll see a stocked fish pond, numerous fountains, and several important memorials.

There's also a host of animals that call The Company's Garden home. The squirrels are popular, especially with children, and you can buy bags of nuts to feed them. An aviary has dozens of bird species. Visitors will also spot geese and herons around the garden.

A popular restaurant is located on-site. Visitors can also find local arts and crafts being sold along the avenue. The Company's Garden is shaded and a great way to spend a hot day.