Cape Town has a rich abundance of wildlife, from baby elephants to monkeys, the plains of Africa are home to some of the most beautiful animals in the wild.
Besides the wide range of game reserves available along the Cape, there are various sanctuaries and parks that allow for an up-close and personal experience with these majestic animals.
Whether its feeding gentle giant giraffes or watching dangerous predators being fed, its a unique way to spend your weekends in the Cape.
Here are five animal encounters to experience
1. Giraffe House
An important member of the team, Gerry the hand reared giraffe will be the highlight of your experience at the Wildlife Awareness Centre – education is the main focus of the park as it intends to teach members of the public about the wide array of wildlife species they house. Visitors are treated to an up close experience with Gerry the giraffe as he bends his long neck to greet you and welcome you to Giraffe house.
There are ostriches and alligators among the various animals to see. Entrance to the park cost R50 per adult, R30 for kids aged 2-12 years and R35 for seniors.
Address: R304 & R101, Muldersvlei, Cape Town
Contact: 021 884 4506
Website: www.giraffehouse.co.za
2. Butterfly World Zoo
The Butterfly World Zoo is a haven for butterflies and exotic animals, birds and reptiles, offering an escape into a jungle like interior park. All animals are housed in the tropical environment where they live together in harmony. A stroll through the gardens allows a natural experience with the animals in their habitat with enclosed spaces to ensure the safety of all.
Entrance to the facility cost R88 per adult, R49 for children, R79 for students and pensioners.
Address: Route 44, Stellenbosch, Western Cape
Contact: 021 875 5628
Website: www.butterflyworld.co.za
3. Alpaca Farm
The Alpaca Farm located a short hour and 15 minute drive from Cape Town, allows you to capture the picture perfect moment as you feed and pet these furry and quirky creatures. There is a quaint coffee shop on the property giving guests the chance to grab a sweet delight after spending the day with the alpacas.
Address: Suid-Agter-Paarl Rd, Southern Paarl, 7624
Contact: 021 863 2495
Website: www.alpacas.co.za
4. World of Birds Wildlife Sanctuary and Monkey Park
The World of Birds sanctuary is home to more than an array of vibrant birds, home to species of reptiles and monkeys the organization allows guest to enter the monkey enclosure as feed the Squirrel monkeys, a breed of mixture monkeys that are as friendly as they are naughty.
Visitors are advised to be cautious of their personal belongings when entering the enclosure of monkeys.
Entrance to the sanctuary cost R120 per adult, R45 per child and. R75 special for students and pensions.
Address: 4914 Valley Rd, Hout Bay, Cape Town
Contact: 021 790 2730
Website: www.worldofbirds.org.za
5. Le Bonheur Crocodile Farm
A daring experience is available at Le Bonheur Crocodile farm, visitors are allowed to experience a cage dive into the waters with these reptilians. Visitors can take a tour of the crocodile pond along with the snake park for those who would like to make a slithery friend.
A wood fired pizzeria on the premises will satisfy your hunger after the adrenalin filled day.
Entrance to the crocodile pond tour cost R60 per adult and R35 for kinds under the age of 18 years.
Address: Babylonstoren Road, R45, Simondium,
Contact: 021 863 1142
Website: www.lebonheurcrocfarm.co.za
Picture: Unsplash
