The Jacaranda (an African name meaning “fragrant”) is a tree belonging to the Bignoniaceae family, which includes approximately 50 species native to the tropical and subtropical regions of South America, Central America, South Africa, and the Caribbean. Today, even in Italy and some Mediterranean regions, you can see these trees filled with light purple petals during their bloom. A spectacle that rivals the famous cherry blossoms in Asia, because when the wind strips the branches large carpets of purple cover the streets, squares, and parks. So, a spring trip for nature and photography enthusiasts might also include a tour to admire the Jacarandas in bloom. We shall tell you where!
Purple spring with the Jacarandas
In order to admire the Jacaranda bloom, you must book your trip in spring. But spring is not the same everywhere. In Europe, it is between March and May, while in the Southern Hemisphere, spring time is September-November. So, depending on where you decide to admire the “purple trees”, know which month is best. We suggest five places around the world where the Jacaranda blooms are an unforgettable experience! Thanks to our personalized transfers, you can also organize a tour that includes more than just the natural spectacle.
Jacaranda blooms in Italy
In Italy, the islands are the favorite “cradle” of the Jacaranda trees. In Sicily and Sardinia, between April and June, you can witness the blooming of these trees, especially in the cities of Catania and Cagliari.
In Catania (Fontanarossa Airport CTA), the historic central quarter, and in particular Sant’Euplio street – behind the ruins of the Roman theater in Stesicoro square – becomes a veritable purple gallery during the months of April and May! Nearby, in addition to the excavations, you can also visit the ancient church dedicated to Catania’s second patron saint, Euplio, the modern fountain in Largo Paisiello and Bellini Park. Following the road shaded by the purple foliage of Jacarandas, you reach the intersection with Regina Margherita avenue, where you can rest in the elegant Roma square.
From Cagliari Airport (CAG), with our perfect transfer for you, you can admire the purple blooms in many different locations around the Sardinian capital. There’s no specific location because Jacarandas are everywhere. A great excuse to also admire the beauties of Cagliari: the Cathedral, the Basilica of St Saturnino, the Town Hall, the Royal Palace, the Castle of St Michael, the Bastione Saint Remy, the Necropolis, and the beautiful city parks.
The shower of purple petals in Greece
In Greece, the jacaranda blossoms last a long time and can be enjoyed even in the summer. The most romantic place to visit on this occasion is the historic core of Athens.
Especially in the National Gardens, also known as Zappeion Park (named after the majestic neoclassical building that dominates the entrance), and in the surrounding avenues, a shower of purple petals decorates the paths and streets, creating a fabulous spectacle. Athens, as we know, is renowned for all the glory of the Greek civilization’s past which is expressed in the Acropolis, the archaeological museums, the Areopagus, and dozens of other itineraries, all of which should be planned according to your available time.
The reference airport is, of course, Athens Venizelos (ATH).
Buenos Aires and the Jacaranda Avenue
Cagliari’s Jacaranda trees were donated in the 19th century by the city of Buenos Aires, where these plants had already been providing captivating scenery for many years.
If you decide to experience the Jacaranda blossoms in the Argentine capital, you’ll have to book your trip in November. During this month, the purple foliage is especially striking on Avenida 9 de Julio, the most important avenue in all of South America! You shall also find Jacarandas in Plaza San Martín a Retiro, Plaza de Mayo, Plaza Francia, and in the Palermo and La Boca neighbourhoods. Arriving at Pistarini International Airport (EZE) and traveling with our transfers, you will immediately get a glimpse of the beauty of the local blooms, among monuments such as the Casa Rosada, the Obelisk, the Cathedral, the Cabildo Palace, and more. Don’t miss a visit to Tres de Febrero Park, where the paths are a spectacle dotted with purple stains!
Jacarandas in South Africa
Few people know about the official capital of South Africa: Pretoria. Easily accessible from nearby Johannesburg Airport (JNB), this small city has very few interesting monuments to offer, and much of its visibility is overshadowed by its more famous “sister” city, Johannesburg.
But what Pretoria offers best, a spectacle unlike any other in the world, are the jacaranda blossoms that decorate almost every avenue and square. Imagine, between late October and December, an entire city adorned with a network of purple streets! This is the magic you’ll experience, especially in areas such as Bosman Street, Cilliers Street, Eastwood Street (at the corner with Stanza Bopape), and, just outside the city center, the Klapperkop Nature Reserve.
Since the jacaranda blossoms during final exam season, legend has it that all the students in the region come to Pretoria for a walk during these months. Receiving this “purple rain” on your head is said to bring good luck with your grades!
