Escape the bustle of the city to discover native and tropical plant species, admire a sculpture collection and relax on the grass at the Buenos Aires Botanical Garden (Jardín Botánico). It is oasis of tranquility compared to the two major thoroughfares on either side of it.
The gardens are divided in geographical regions, with species present from America to Asia and Africa to Oceania. French-Argentine landscaper Carlos Thays designed this 17.3-acre (7-hectare) garden during the 1890s.
Stroll along shaded pathways to admire landscaped gardens, home to more than 5,000 tree and plant species. Botany enthusiasts will enjoy reading the labels that provide information on the plant’s local and Latin names. Check out the symmetrical French garden, which uses a style common in France during the 17th and 18th centuries.
As you meander through the garden, look for some of the 30 sculptures in the area. Among these are pieces by Italian sculptor Ernesto Biondi and Argentine Lola Mora. Look also for the bust of José de San Martín, the general who led Argentina and other South American countries to independence from Spain. Cat lovers might like to pet some of the felines that inhabit the park. Volunteers come here to groom and feed these free-roaming cats.
Visit the garden’s English-style mansion, which was built in 1881 by Polish-born architect Jordan Wysocky. Today it houses a small botanic museum and hosts regular free music events and rotating exhibitions featuring local artists.
Located in the Palermo neighbourhood, the Buenos Aires Botanical Garden is a 15-minute taxi ride from Buenos Aires’ city centre. Public transport takes a little longer to reach it but is a cheaper option. Combine a visit with a trip to the Buenos Aires Zoo, which is just a short walk away.
The park is open daily, except for selected public holidays. There is no admission fee. Free tours of the garden and its greenhouses are available in English. Check the official website for full opening times and tour details.
