Monkeyland, Birds of Eden, Jukani - Animal Sanctuaries

Greater Plettenberg Bay, Garden Route



Enjoy a day out in nature with wildlife - monkeys, birds, lions, tigers and more. Learn all about the amazing animals in our three sanctuaries and enjoy taking the best photos ever.

Overview

Explore three wildlife sanctuaries in the Garden Route: Monkeyland, Birds of Eden, and Jukani Wildlife Sanctuary, suitable for nature and animal enthusiasts.

Highlights

  • Visit the world’s first multispecies free-roaming primate sanctuary with over 550 primates
  • Cross a 128-meter suspension bridge high in the Monkeyland tree canopy
  • Discover over 210 bird species in the free-flight aviary at Birds of Eden
  • Observe large wild cats including lions, tigers, leopards, and jaguars at Jukani Wildlife Sanctuary

Description

Choose from three wildlife sanctuaries, each offering unique experiences with native and rescued animals.

Monkeyland: This is the world’s first free-roaming multi-species primate sanctuary, home to over 550 ex-captive apes, monkeys, and lemurs. Located in a 12-hectare indigenous forest, guided tours last about one hour and are led by experienced primate guides who share knowledge and stories about the animals.

Birds of Eden: The largest free-flight aviary in the world, covering 2.3 hectares of forested land under a 3.2-hectare mesh dome. The aviary features a 1.2km walkway and houses over 3,500 birds from more than 210 species and subspecies. Visitors can explore independently, observing species such as Knysna louries, parrots, waterfowl, flamingos, and cranes in a natural setting including a deep gorge and waterfall.

Jukani Wildlife Sanctuary: Home to rescued large cats such as lions, tigers, leopards, jaguars, cheetahs, and pumas, along with other animals like raccoons, honey badgers, caracals, zebras, springboks, and spotted hyenas. The 90-minute walking safari is led by knowledgeable guides and highlights the animals’ natural habitats and conservation stories.

Includes

  • English-guided tours at Monkeyland and Jukani Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Self-guided walking tour at Birds of Eden; guided tours available with 48 hours advance notice
  • Option to select one sanctuary or combine all three
  • No extra charge for French-speaking guides at Monkeyland or Birds of Eden if booked 48 hours in advance with arrival time provided

Excludes

  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Food and drinks
  • Gratuities

Important Information

  • Combination tickets offer better value per sanctuary
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes rather than sandals
  • Hats are recommended at Jukani, especially for children
  • Binoculars are useful at Birds of Eden and Jukani but not mandatory

Cancellation Policy

Full refunds available for cancellations made up to 24 hours in advance.

For the best experience, bring comfortable walking shoes, wear a hat at Jukani, and consider booking guided tours at least 48 hours ahead to secure language preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Monkeyland is the world’s first multispecies free-roaming primate sanctuary, home to over 550 primates in a natural forest environment.
Yes, visitors can cross a 128-meter suspension bridge high in the Monkeyland tree canopy for an immersive experience.
Birds of Eden features over 210 species of birds in a large free-flight aviary located in the Garden Route.
Jukani Wildlife Sanctuary is located on the Garden Route and offers close-up viewing of large wild cats like lions and leopards.
It is possible to visit Monkeyland, Birds of Eden, and Jukani Wildlife Sanctuary in one day, depending on timing; check their websites for scheduling details.
The sanctuaries are accessible by car from major Garden Route towns like Plettenberg Bay; public transport options are limited.
Yes, all three sanctuaries welcome children and offer educational experiences suitable for families on the Garden Route.
Advance booking is recommended, especially during peak seasons; check each sanctuary’s website for current availability and ticketing.
Jukani Wildlife Sanctuary houses large wild cats including lions, tigers, leopards, and jaguars on the Garden Route.
Guided tours are available at Monkeyland, Birds of Eden, and Jukani Wildlife Sanctuary to enhance visitor knowledge about wildlife and conservation.

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