The Cactus Trip Diaries

Today was an aclimatisation day, after yesterday’s flying day.

After a good night’s sleep and a leisurely breakfast we made our way to the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens, a great opportunity to see South African flora with labels! Heavy overcast skies, Table Mountain hiding in the clouds and the occasional light drizzle made the Brits feel right at home. Eunice had been expecting Californian weather, but at least her UK all-weather gear could be put to good use.

We started off in the dry, under glass in the impressive glasshouse that I had become familiar with over the years from talks by other plant tourists. As if on queue, Ernst van Jaarsveld walked in, escorting a lady to the Welwitschia house where she was preparing some art work. Ernst promised to return and gave us somewhat of a guided tour including some of the glasshouses that are normally off-limits to visitors. Thanks Ernst, for taking the time to show us around.

Fortunately the weather had lightened up a bit so we ventured into the garden proper with its impressive setting at the foot of Table Mountain offering glimpses over Cape Town lower down the hill.

We finished off with a visit to the souvenir & bookshop to prove that my credit card worked in South Africa.

Tomorrow we head north and hopefully drier, warmer weather.