Cherry Blossom in South Africa 2025

In South Africa, blooming cherry trees are a rare sight in urban areas, which are more commonly adorned with the vibrant purple hues of jacaranda trees. Nevertheless, the country’s orchards and gardens showcase a charming array of cherry trees, their blossoms transforming into delightful shades of pink during the spring months of September and October.

Cherry Tree Blossom Season

Throughout South Africa, cherry trees bloom from early September to early October, adorning the landscape with delicate pink and white flowers.

Johannesburg

The Johannesburg Botanical Gardens is a tranquil haven for nature lovers and a must-visit destination during spring. Spanning 81 hectares, it offers expansive grassy spaces, vibrant gardens, and picturesque views, making it a favorite for picnickers, dog walkers, and runners. One of its most enchanting features is the terraced Rose Garden, surrounded by Japanese flowering cherry trees that bloom beautifully from early September to early October. During this time, the dazzling combination of thousands of roses and delicate cherry blossoms creates a truly breathtaking sight. The gardens also feature unique attractions like the Shakespeare Garden, Herb Garden, and an arboretum showcasing both local and international plant species, all set against the serene backdrop of the historic Emmarentia Dam.

Schedule & Activities

The gardens provide a wide range of activities for visitors, including birdwatching, jogging, walking, and fishing by the dam. Water enthusiasts can enjoy canoeing, sailing, and kayaking through the Dabulamanzi Canoe Club. The area is also home to botanical societies, occasional concerts, and exhibitions at the floreum. Open daily from sunrise to sunset, the gardens are easily accessible, with safe parking at multiple entry points, including Thomas Bowler, Orange, and The Braids roads, with the main entrance on Olifants Road.

Ficksburg

Ficksburg, located in South Africa's Eastern Free State, is the country's premier cherry-producing region and is often referred to as the "Cherry Capital of the World." The first cherry trees were planted here in 1905, and today, the town boasts an abundance of cherry orchards that attract visitors from near and far. Early September is the best time to witness the stunning cherry blossoms as hundreds of trees bloom against the breathtaking backdrop of the Maluti Mountains. With different varieties of cherry trees flowering at staggered times, visitors can enjoy new blossoms throughout the month. In addition to the blossoms, the nearby mountains offer excellent hiking opportunities.

Ficksburg Cherry Festival

While the cherry blossoms are a springtime highlight, Ficksburg's annual Cherry Festival, held during the third week of November, focuses on the cherry harvest rather than the blossoms. As South Africa's oldest crop festival, it celebrates the bounty of the harvest with a wide range of activities, including cherry tours, product competitions, a golf classic, a half marathon, veteran vehicle displays, equestrian events, and lively beer fests.

Ceres Valley

The Ceres Valley, famous for its fruit tree blooms, is home to Klondyke Cherry Farm, just two hours from Cape Town. This scenic farm showcases stunning cherry blossoms in spring, along with apples and pears. Visitors can enjoy nature walks, bird-watching, or stay in cozy self-catering cottages and camping facilities. In November and December, the farm transforms into a hub for cherry picking during harvest season.

KwaZulu-Natal Midlands

The gardens of Brahman Hills, located in the scenic Midlands of KwaZulu-Natal, are a vibrant blend of wild grasses and seasonal colors. Visitors can wander along gently meandering, mown-grass paths that lead from the garden into the surrounding hillside. This transition zone is beautifully planted with 500 flowering cherry trees, offering a stunning display of blossoms amidst the natural landscape.