Exploring Wildlife in and around Cape Town

Exotic Animal World

• Website: Exotic Animal World
• Best Time to Visit: Year-round, though summer (December–February) is ideal for better weather and outdoor activities.
• Cost: Adults: R80, Children: R50.

Located just outside Cape Town, Exotic Animal World offers a rare opportunity to see exotic creatures from across the globe. Home to a variety of reptiles, including snakes and lizards, as well as mammals such as monkeys and lemurs, this attraction is perfect for families or anyone looking to explore animals not native to South Africa. The interactive exhibits allow visitors to touch or hold some of the animals, making for a hands-on experience that’s both fun and educational.

World of Birds

• Website: World of Birds
• Best Time to Visit: Year-round. However, spring (September–November) is a great time for birdwatching as many species are nesting.
• Cost: Adults: R130, Children: R70.

Tucked away in Hout Bay, World of Birds is one of the largest bird parks in Africa. With over 3,000 birds representing 400 species, this park is a bird lover’s dream. Visitors can wander through aviaries filled with vibrant parrots, flamingos, and rare birds from around the world. Aside from its impressive bird collection, the park is also home to small mammals, reptiles, and monkeys, making it a great spot for a comprehensive wildlife experience.

Drakenstein Lion Park

• Website: Drakenstein Lion Park
• Best Time to Visit: Best visited in the cooler months (May–September), but it’s open year-round.
• Cost: Adults: R100, Children: R50.

Located just outside Cape Town, the Drakenstein Lion Park offers a sanctuary for rescued lions and other big cats. This facility, dedicated to the protection and rehabilitation of lions, provides visitors the rare opportunity to observe these magnificent predators up close in a safe and ethical environment. Unlike traditional safari experiences, the Drakenstein Lion Park focuses on providing a safe, enriching environment for the animals, many of which have been rescued from circuses or private captivity. The park’s mission to educate the public about lion conservation and animal welfare makes it an important stop for those interested in the ethical treatment of wildlife.

Two Oceans Aquarium

• Website: Two Oceans Aquarium
• Best Time to Visit: Anytime of the year, but weekdays are quieter than weekends.
• Cost: Adults: R210, Children: R95.

Situated at the popular V&A Waterfront, the Two Oceans Aquarium showcases the diverse marine life of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. The aquarium is home to a variety of marine creatures, including sharks, stingrays, seals, and jellyfish. Visitors can learn about marine conservation efforts and get up close with some of the ocean’s most captivating species. For the adventurous, the aquarium offers a unique shark cage diving experience, where you can safely observe sharks in their natural environment.

Boulders Beach Penguin Colony

• Website: Boulders Beach
• Best Time to Visit: Year-round, though summer (December–February) offers better weather and the chance to see more penguin activity.
• Cost: Adults: R85, Children: R42.

Boulders Beach in Simon’s Town is home to one of the most charming and unique wildlife experiences in Cape Town – a colony of African Penguins. The beach offers boardwalks that lead visitors to observe the penguins in their natural habitat, providing excellent opportunities for wildlife photography. The playful penguins waddle around the beach and swim in the clear waters, offering a delightful experience for all ages. Boulders Beach is a must-see destination for anyone who loves penguins or wants to witness a piece of Cape Town’s coastal wildlife.

Monkey Town

• Website: Monkey Town
• Best Time to Visit: Year-round, though spring and summer (September–February) offer the best outdoor experiences.
• Cost: Adults: R100, Children: R60.

For those interested in primates, Monkey Town in Somerset West offers an opportunity to observe over 200 monkeys and apes in a sanctuary setting. The park is home to species from around the world, including capuchins, lemurs, and baboons, housed in spacious enclosures that mimic their natural habitats. Monkey Town’s educational tours provide insights into the lives of these fascinating creatures, making it a great place for visitors to learn more about primate conservation and behavior.

Sanbona Wildlife Reserve

• Website: Sanbona Wildlife Reserve
• Best Time to Visit: The best time for wildlife viewing is during the dry months (May–September) when animals gather around waterholes.
• Cost: Rates vary depending on the accommodation, but expect to pay from R5,000 per person per night for luxury lodges.

If you’re craving a more traditional safari experience, the Sanbona Wildlife Reserve, located about three hours from Cape Town, offers an exceptional wildlife experience. This private reserve is home to the Big 5 and a variety of other animals, including cheetahs, hippos, and various antelope species. Sanbona’s luxurious lodges and expert guides offer intimate safari experiences, where you can enjoy game drives and spot wildlife in the stunning semi-desert landscape. It’s an ideal destination for those seeking an authentic safari adventure without venturing too far from Cape Town.

Cape Point Nature Reserve

• Website: Cape Point Nature Reserve
• Best Time to Visit: Summer (November–March) offers the best weather and visibility.
• Cost: Adults: R360, Children: R180.

Cape Point Nature Reserve, located at the tip of the Cape Peninsula, is famous for its dramatic landscapes and biodiversity. The reserve is home to a variety of wildlife, including baboons, ostriches, and antelope, as well as numerous bird species. Visitors can explore the reserve on foot, by bike, or by car, while enjoying panoramic views and wildlife encounters along the way. It’s a perfect spot for nature lovers and wildlife photographers, with the added bonus of incredible scenery.

Cheetah Outreach

• Website: Cheetah Outreach
• Best Time to Visit: Year-round, but avoid visiting during peak summer holidays (December–January) if you prefer a quieter experience.
• Cost: General admission: R100, Cheetah Interaction: R200.

For a unique wildlife experience focused on conservation, Cheetah Outreach in Somerset West offers an opportunity to interact with cheetahs while learning about the conservation challenges these incredible animals face. The outreach program provides visitors with the chance to get up close to cheetahs, observe their graceful movements, and learn about efforts to protect them in the wild. The center’s educational programs and community outreach work play a vital role in raising awareness of the importance of wildlife preservation.

Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden

• Website: Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden
• Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer (September–March) when the gardens are in full bloom.
• Cost: Adults: R75, Children: R40.

While not specifically an animal-focused destination, Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden offers a fantastic opportunity to encounter local wildlife in a beautiful setting. Located on the slopes of Table Mountain, the garden is home to various bird species and small mammals. The serene atmosphere, combined with the chance to observe animals in a naturalistic environment, makes Kirstenbosch a delightful spot for wildlife enthusiasts.

Cape Town offers a wealth of opportunities for wildlife experiences beyond the Big 5. From animal sanctuaries and bird parks to marine experiences and safari-style reserves, there’s no shortage of ways to explore the incredible wildlife that calls this part of South Africa home. So, pack your binoculars and camera, and get ready to discover the diverse creatures that make Cape Town a must-visit destination for animal lovers.