harrison w. smith botanical garden

It used to be ok (very average actually), but is run down and unloved. It needs someone with energy and enthusiasm to takeover and make it a no 1 destination on the island. I recently viisted the botanical gardens in San Salvador and they were the best I've seen in a while. Maybe in a few year.......Gauguin Museum is closed for renovation,so just drive right past!

Amazing flowers and trees. Beautiful grounds and we took very beautiful photographs. Nice clean location.

Located about 50 km (30 miles) from Papeete, the garden is adjacent to the Gauguin Museum (still closed for “renovation” during our visit to the island). The garden is not large, but does have samples of most of the major plant varieties that you will see around the island. I doubt that even the most avid plant person would spend more than an hour to an hour and a half here. Frankly, if we had not been on a tour that included this as a stop, because the Gauguin Museum was closed, I doubt that we would have thought the drive time out worth the money and time as a sole destination. Our visit was enhanced because of our guide who enthusiastically pointed out each species and gave a short history, etc. as well as answering questions from our group. The garden has an interesting waterfall and watercourse that flows throughout the garden. It also has a large upscale gift shop. In sum, if you are in the area because of other attractions (well the Gauguin museum if it ever re-opens), you should take the time to visit.