Something that truly stuck out for me on our visit to Kirstenbosch National Botanical gardens yesterday, was the Forest Braille Trail.
Our guide led us to the trail, which starts and ends at the Fragrance garden. Here, the kids ( and us adults) were encouraged to close their eyes and experience the trail as a blind person would.
For me this was a great way to highlight to our children that not everyone is able to see as well as explain the use of Braille and the importance of inclusion.
About the Kirstenbosch gardens Braille Trail
The Braille Trail is a 0.45 km walk, which takes between 15 and 30 minutes to complete,and that allows unsighted people the opportunity to explore the Indigenous Forest unassisted and allows everyone the opportunity to explore the Forest just using your other senses.
The circular trail is outlined by a thick guiding rope and winds through natural Forest and Wetlands, which is home to many birds and frogs.
Blocks on the guiding rope mark stopping points, where you will find sign boards describing the plants, animals and forest. These signs also indicate where to find benches and water fountains.
All the signs are in large print, as well as in Braille.
The path is mulched with no steps and a boardwalks leading over the wetland and over any exposed roots.
The path has wheelchair access, but they may need assistance due to it being steep with a tough, uneven path.
This was an experience we certainly enjoyed, and one that made us more kind full of just how quickly we take our sight for granted.
Visiting the gardens
Acclaimed as one of the world’s great botanical gardens, Kirstenbosch, boasts beautiful mountain views, stunning flowers, lush green lawns and a diversity of plants and bird life.
There is always something new to see and discover at Kirtenbosch.
Some information if you are planning a visit.
*The gardens are open daily from 8am – 7pm in summer & 8am – 6pm in winter
* The conservatory is open daily from 9am – 5pm
* Tickets can be bought at the gate or online from webtickets
* Kirstenbosch is wheelchair friendly in all visitor facilities, but due to its steep gradient ,not all parts of the park are wheelchair friendly.
* No dogs are allowed in the developing gardens. However, there is a specific dog map available with dog friendly areas. All dogs are to be on a leash.
*You can take your own picnic or purchase from the restaurant. Kirstenbosch is a no bin park, so you need to take all your rubbish with you.
*Guided Tours are available as well as a virtual tour on their website. Maps are avaliable at the ticket desk
Pricing
Adults R220
SA Resident with proof of SA Identity documents R100
Children under 6 Free
Children 6-17 R40
Students with proof of student card R60
Pensioners Free on Tuesdays
