Love is in the air this Valentine’s Day, and what better way to celebrate than with a romantic twist in nature’s most enchanting settings? The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) is pulling out all the stops to create unforgettable experiences for couples, friends, and nature enthusiasts at its botanical gardens and the National Zoological Garden. From moonlit picnics to treetop adventures, get ready for a wild and whimsical celebration under the stars!
Johannesburg sets the stage for a starry-eyed picnic at the Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden. Nestled amidst the stunning Witpoortjie Waterfall and majestic Black Eagles, this botanical paradise offers a dreamy escape filled with soft ballads and hidden gems like the People’s Plants Garden. Pack a picnic basket, book your tickets for 14 February from 5pm to 10pm, and get ready to be swept off your feet.
Head to Pretoria for a love-filled evening at the Pretoria National Botanical Garden. With over 220 bird species, including hawks and falcons, this lush green oasis is a haven for both feathered and human lovebirds. Enjoy live music, a complimentary glass of bubbly at Milkplum Café, and immerse yourself in the avian-inspired romance on 14 February from 6pm to 10pm.
For a wild and adventurous date, the National Zoological Garden in Pretoria offers a unique setting with 4,800 animals waiting to charm you. Explore scenic enclosures, admire rare species, and enjoy 50% off the entry price for couples on 14 February. Book your tickets for a wild Valentine’s experience surrounded by nature’s wonders.
In the Free State, the National Botanical Garden sets the stage for movie magic under the stars. With rolling hills, peaceful ponds, and a variety of indigenous plants, this floral wonderland is perfect for a laid-back Valentine’s picnic. Gates open at 5pm, and the outdoor movie night starts at 7:30pm on 14 February. Book your tickets for a romantic evening under the star-studded sky.
Take your love to new heights in KwaZulu-Natal at the National Botanical Garden’s Acrobranch course. Climb, swing, and tackle high ropes with your special someone for a heart-pumping adventure that doubles as nature’s couple’s therapy. Enjoy 40% off with promo code ACROLOVE40 from 14 to 16 February and create unforgettable memories among the treetops.
For a Valentine’s celebration with a twist, escape to the Karoo Desert National Botanical Garden for a night of desert love and live music. Set against the mystical Karoo night sky, enjoy an intimate open-air performance by In Die Tuine with Coffee Snobs. Bring your picnic basket, sip on local wines, and let the music set the mood on 14 February from 6pm onwards. Tickets are available on Quicket for a one-of-a-kind Valentine’s experience.
This Valentine’s Day, ditch the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary with SANBI’s gardens and zoo. Whether you prefer a romantic picnic under the stars or a thrilling treetop adventure, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Make this Valentine’s Day a wild and unforgettable celebration in nature’s embrace!
