Tokai arboretum

The Tokai Arboretum is home to hundreds of different species of trees. Photo courtesy Ian Junor

The Tokai Arboretum is a park-like area on the slopes of Constantiaberg near the Silvermine Nature Reserve that’s ideally suited to walking, biking and learning about various tree species, including oaks and Californian redwoods.

The Tokai Arboretum was established in 1886 by Joseph Storr Lister, chief conservator of forests for the Cape Colony. The rationale was to test which trees from other parts of the world would grow well in this location. Hundreds of species are represented here, some of the individual trees being very old.

Take a long walk or bike ride in this peaceful setting, or use it as the starting point for a longer hike such as the 6km trail to Elephant’s Eye Cave and back. There is a tea room where you can buy refreshments.

To get there to the Tokai Arboretum, turn left off Tokai Road at the Tokai Manor House (built in 1795).

Don’t miss out on the Saturday organic market at the nearby Porter Estate.

Contact Cape Town Tourism’s Visitor Information Centre to find out more about accredited nature and adventure guides and operators, activities, restaurants and to book accommodation in the area.