One of the best things about The Botanical Gardens in Buenos Aires, situated in between Santa Fe and General Las Heras, is the smell.
Two very peaceful hours can easily be spent strolling around the Botanical Gardens in Buenos Aires either with friends or alone. Despite the fact that the gardens are not very large, the variety of plant life and the presentation given to the gardens themselves is pleasantly surprising.
Types of Flora Found Inside the Botanical Gardens in Buenos Aires
There are various different sections inside the gardens, including cacti, roses (although at present they are not exactly flourishing) and an area of conifers. This list is by no means exhausted, however, and each visit can offer something more for the plant-lover or wandering traveller to enjoy.
If a fan of herbs or plants that are used to make different kinds of beverages, it is well worth visiting the gardens just to rub the cedron plant leaves and enjoy the plant's wonderful aroma. The lavender in comparison is a little disappointing, but still pleasant enough.
Things Other Than Flora Found Inside the Botancial Gardens in Buenos Aires
The pathways are also beautiful to walk down - some a burning orange in colour - and even though two major roads run either side of the gardens, it's very easy to forget that they're there. Inside the gardens, the noise of the traffic is dampened and there are many people enjoying a little quiet time on some of the benches placed throughout. Indeed, many visitors can be seen enjoying a deep sleep with wide open mouths....clearly dreaming of all things wonderful in the world of flora!
In the middle of the gardens is a huge red bricked house where a very old map of Buenos Aires can be found inside. Browsing over the differences between the Buenos Aires of yore and that of today is an interesting little interjection. However, even more memorable is the notice placed on the entrance. All visitors are kindly asked to be careful with the door as it is 128 years old!
Over and above the various trees, cacti, herbs, teas and bushes, the gardens are dotted with various different statues and water features, which add to their beauty and aggrandise the entire feel of the place.
The Botanical Gardens in Buenos Aires is Full of Cats
Spookily, the gardens are also swarming with cats; they are simply everywhere. Some can be seen in the trees, others are lazing on the grass, more spend time grooming each other or walking around with an air of ownership. Their presence is very eerie and adds to the whole experience.
Other Green Spaces of Interest in Buenos Aires Aside From The Botancial Gardens
Other green areas of note in Buenos Aires are The Japonese Gardens and the huge parks of Palermo, in particular El Tres de Febrero. In addition to that there is the Biological Reserve that was formed naturally recently on the other side of the river and where many people riding bikes can be spotted amongst the dense growth of this wild and magical place.
Tracey Chandler - Tracey Chandler currently writes a weekly column for non-profit organisation South American Explorers in Buenos Aires, Argentina. She also ...
Join the Conversation