From glittering light tunnels and festive characters to interactive displays, this year’s Trail of Lights at the Durban Botanic Gardens is bigger and brighter than ever before!
Step into a dazzling wonderland with extended routes, new themed displays, and surprises at every corner.
Children can meet Santa in his grotto, make keepsakes at the Ms Claus Craft Café, and enjoy the Toy Kingdom X-Shot Tunnels.
Thrill-seekers can soar above the gardens on the zipline, while families can capture memories at light tunnels and the new Polar Express Zone featuring a life-sized polar bear.
What’s New?
- Santa’s Workshop (Build-A-Bear Pop-Up): Create your own cuddly friend to take home.
- Virtual Reality Activation: Holiday-themed VR experiences for all ages.
- Polar Express Zone: Magical photo ops with a life-sized polar bear.
Festive Fun for a Cause
- Adopt-a-River: Donate and leave a personal message on the Tree of Love and Life.
- Project Rhino & SAAMBR: Learn about rhino and marine conservation.
- Paws ‘n Claus (10 Dec): Bring pets to support the Feeding the Furballs charity.
What You Need to Know
- When: 5 to 7 December | 10 to 24 December | 26 to 30 December | 1 to 3 January 2026
- Time: 6pm to 10pm | Plan 2 to 3 hours to enjoy the full Trail.
- Venue: Durban Botanic Gardens, Berea
- Clothing: Dress warm and wear comfy shoes.
- Tickets: R85 to R95 online, R120 at the gate; children under 2 enter free; pet tickets R50. Available via Webtickets or at Pick n Pay and Boxer stores.
- Expect: Food gardens, live entertainment, zipline, and interactive zones included.
A Tropical Surprise
For daytime visitors, there’s also the new Tropical Display House at Durban Botanic Gardens.
Home to orchids, ferns, anthuriums, bromeliads, and more, it’s a collaboration between the Durban Botanic Gardens Trust and eThekwini Municipality.
Thanks to funding from the Trust’s events, like the Trail of Lights and Music at the Lake, this new display is just another reason to explore the gardens this Festive Season.
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