New Gardens membership pricing for national botanical and zoological gardens

The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) introduced a national SANBI Gardens Membership in April 2024. In 2025, the organisation, which manages 11 national botanical and two zoological gardens across eight of South Africa’s nine provinces, is announcing additional membership packages making it even easier for South Africans to connect with nature.

As of March 2025, anyone who wishes to enjoy green open spaces and contribute to the conservation of biodiversity inside and outside national botanical and zoological gardens can choose from a variety of membership options to suit their needs.

Membership options include a national individual, couples, pensioner and family packages as well as regional memberships. The National membership, which grants entry to all SANBI gardens, including Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden and the Pretoria Zoo, is available at R800 per year for individual adults, R600 for students and pensioners, and R400 for scholars. Couples can join for R1200 per year, while families (2 adults and 3 children, or 1 adult and 4 children) can enjoy full access for R1600 per year.

SANBI remains committed to preserving South Africa’s rich biodiversity and ensuring these green spaces remain accessible, well-maintained, and thriving for future generations.

“A SANBI Gardens membership offers more than unlimited access to these breathtaking spaces; it is an investment in conservation, education, and community well-being,” says Director of Marketing, Communication and Commercialisation, Nontsikelelo Mpulo at SANBI.

Regional membership one provides access to the Pretoria National Botanical Garden, the National Zoological Garden, and Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden. This membership is available at R650 per year for individual adults, R480 for students and pensioners, and R325 for scholars. Couples can join for R1000 per year, while families (2 adults and 3 children, or 1 adult and 4 children) can enjoy full access for R1300 per year.

Regional membership two grants access to Free State National Botanical Garden, Hantam National Botanical Garden, Harold Porter National Botanical Garden, Karoo Desert National Botanical Garden, KwaZulu-Natal National Botanical Garden, Kwelera National Botanical Garden, Lowveld National Botanical Garden, Thohoyandou National Botanical Garden, and Mokopane Biodiversity Conservation Centre. This membership is available at R500 per year for individual adults, R375 for students and pensioners, and R250 for scholars. Couples can join for R800 per year, while families (2 adults and 3 children, or 1 adult and 4 children) can enjoy full access for R1000 per year.

Children under six can enter national botanical gardens without a membership, while those under two enjoy free entry to the national zoological gardens. Additionally, pensioners benefit from free entry on Tuesdays at most gardens. Beyond unlimited access to these beautiful spaces, SANBI members also receive added value, including a 10% discount on purchases at the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden Gift Shop and a 10% discount on purchases at Happy by Nature.

Every SANBI membership contributes directly to the protection and maintenance of these treasured spaces and supports over 600 dedicated staff members who work tirelessly to care for the gardens. These natural spaces are not just places of beauty; they play a crucial role in biodiversity conservation, environmental education, and the mental and physical well-being of visitors.

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