Wander among the giant trees at Tokai Arboretum

Walk beneath some of the tallest and most extraordinary trees in Cape Town. Tokai Arboretum began as an experimental forest in 1885, when trees from around the world were planted here to discover which species would thrive at the Cape. Today, its winding paths take you beneath enormous Californian redwoods, oaks, pines, eucalyptus and other towering specimens that have been growing for well over a century. Some feel almost impossibly large. It's cool, shady and wonderfully peaceful — a lovely place for a gentle walk, a picnic or simply an hour spent looking up into the canopy.

BEFORE YOU GO
The arboretum forms part of Table Mountain National Park and has a network of easy paths as well as routes that continue further up the mountain. Wear comfortable shoes and bring water, particularly if you're planning a longer walk. There is an entrance fee, and opening hours and tariffs can change, so check the latest SANParks information before visiting. Dogs are allowed in designated areas, but you'll need to follow SANParks' current dog-walking and permit rules.