Help us protect our Wildlife
Raptor Rescue Plettenberg Bay is a rehabilitation and education centre dedicated to birds of prey. We provide expert care with the goal of giving injured and orphaned raptors a second chance to return to the wild. Those that cannot be released become ambassadors, educating visitors and promoting awareness, while your support funds vital care and conservation programmes.
Wildlife rescues
Visitor Information
OPENING HOURS
Tues – Sat 9:00am – 5:00pm
Sunday 9:00am – 3:00pm
Closed Mondays
GUIDED TOUR & FLYING DEMONSTRATIONS
Summer season (1 Dec – 30 April)
12:00pm • 2:00pm • 4:00pm
Winter season (1 May – 30 Nov)
12:00pm • 2:00pm
Sundays: Last tour at 2:00pm
Holidays & Annual Closures
During school holidays, we are open 7 days a week and offer an additional 10:00am tour. Booking is essential to avoid disappointment.
Hours and tours may change due to animal welfare, weather, or rescue activity. Planned annual closures apply, please check dates below and plan ahead.
WHAT DO WE DO
RESCUE, REHABILITATION & RELEASE
Raptor Rescue Plettenberg Bay is committed to providing the highest standard of care for injured, orphaned, and displaced birds. We work closely with professional veterinarians and conservation specialists to ensure ethical, best-practice rehabilitation. Our goal is to release as many indigenous birds as possible back into their natural habitats, where they can contribute to healthy wild populations. While we specialise in birds of prey, we are permitted to assist all bird species, with the exception of seabirds.
EDUCATION & COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
We believe education is essential to coexisting with wildlife. By teaching people, especially children and young adults, about nature and conservation, we help reduce harm to birds and their habitats. Our programmes include guided tours, school visits, holiday clubs, and volunteer opportunities, all designed to foster a deeper appreciation for wildlife and encourage sustainable practices. By working together, we can protect biodiversity and support a healthier planet.
PROMOTERS OF ETHICAL WILDLIFE TOURISM
We promote ethical wildlife tourism by placing animal welfare first and offering educational experiences rooted in conservation. We lead by example through transparent, responsible practices and actively discourage harmful interactions with wildlife. Our aim is to foster respect for nature, raise awareness of local conservation efforts, and empower visitors to make ethical choices when encountering wildlife beyond the centre.
SNAKE REMOVAL & RELOCATION
The Garden Route is home to many snake species, most of which are harmless. If you encounter a snake, it’s important to stay cautious and avoid handling it yourself. Our trained team offers safe, humane snake removals and relocations to suitable natural habitats, as well as education and awareness talks to promote coexistence. If you need assistance, give us a call — we’re here to help.
OUR VOLUNTEER PROGRAMMES
Our volunteer programmes offer hands-on opportunities to support the rescue, rehabilitation, and care of birds of prey. Whether you’re passionate about conservation, interested in wildlife, or keen to learn more about raptors, your time and support make a real difference. By volunteering with us, you become part of a community working together to protect wildlife, because many hands make light work — Get in touch if you’d like to be involved.
VENUE HIRE
The Heath is a versatile outdoor space available to hire for markets, workshops, creative sessions, and private events such as children’s and adults’ birthday parties. Surrounded by nature, it is ideal for art, pottery, planting, wellness, and educational activities. By hosting your event here, you help support our conservation and education work while enjoying a unique natural setting — Contact us to discuss your ideas or make a booking.
Mark’s passion for the birds he helps rescue is quite apparent. We had a great time with our kids learning about the birds and asking questions about their past and future. Thank you for a fun experience! We’ll be back the next time we’re in Plett – Darshan H
The staff were so friendly the minute my friend and I walked in and I learned a lot! The birds are well looked after. Would definitely recommend going there! – Dani Oelofse
Scheduled Annual Closure dates
To ensure the highest standard of care for our birds and the wellbeing of our team, Raptor Rescue Plettenberg Bay observes scheduled annual closure periods.
THE CENTRE WILL BE CLOSED TO VISITORS ON THE FOLLOWING DATES:
23 February – 2 March
(Reopens Tuesday, 3 March)
26 May – 1 June
(Reopens Tuesday, 2 June)
17 August – 31 August
(Reopens Tuesday, 1 September)
23 November – 30 November
(Reopens Tuesday, 1 December)
During these periods, essential animal care, rehabilitation and maintenance continue behind the scenes, ensuring the centre operates responsibly and sustainably all year round.





