Visit our centre
Looking for unforgettable things to do in the Garden Route? Visit our Bird of Prey Centre for ethical wildlife tourism and meaningful raptor encounters in a beautiful outdoor setting. Ideal for families, school groups, and eco-conscious travellers, we’re conveniently located along the N2, the perfect stop-over between destinations. Enjoy a refreshment, browse our gift shop, and let the kids explore the playground while you wait. A must-visit Garden Route attraction.
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
2025/2026 Rates
Adults R190.00pp
12+ and students R160.00pp
Seniors 60+ R160.00pp
Children (3-12) R120.00pp
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 OFFER
OUTDOOR PARK & RECREATION
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REFRESHMENTS & PICNIC
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UNIQUE SHOPPING EXPERIENCE
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Meet our pilots
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.
Our ambassadors at the centre
Our mission is always to return as many rescued raptors as possible to the wild. However, when injuries or circumstances make release impossible, we provide a safe, permanent sanctuary where each bird receives the highest standard of care. Only individuals that are truly settled and confident in a managed environment become part of our education programmes. We never place unnecessary stress on wildlife.
To ensure their ongoing wellbeing, we use adapted falconry-based techniques that keep them fit, mentally stimulated, and able to fly freely during demonstrations. Our birds are never tethered or restrained, allowing natural movement and offering visitors a rare opportunity to witness their power up close.
At the same time, we maintain a strict no-touch policy. Though trained, these birds remain wild, and for their wellbeing and your safety, we ask that all guests follow their guide’s instructions at all times.
F.A.Q.
Is this a zoo or wildlife park? Why are the birds here?
We are a rescue, rehabilitation and conservation centre, not a zoo. Many of the birds in our care were injured, orphaned, or affected by human-related threats and were brought to us for treatment.
Our priority is always rehabilitation and release back into the wild whenever possible. Birds that recover fully are released. However, some birds have permanent injuries—such as damaged wings or impaired eyesight—that mean they cannot survive in the wild. These birds remain in our care as education ambassadors, helping us raise awareness about birds of prey, conservation, and the challenges they face.
Can I touch or hold a bird?
We have a strict NO TOUCH policy. Birds of prey and owls are wild animals, even when used for education, and they do not enjoy being petted. Touching causes unnecessary stress and can be harmful to their wellbeing.
In addition, the natural oils on human skin can damage the structure and waterproofing of their feathers.
Occasionally, a controlled handling experience may be offered under strict professional supervision, but handling is always kept to an absolute minimum and only when it is in the bird’s best interest.
What do you feed the birds?
Why are birds of prey important, and why can’t we just leave nature to take its course?
Birds of prey are top predators and play a vital role in healthy ecosystems. They help control rodent populations, maintain natural balance, and act as indicators of environmental health. When raptor populations decline, it is often a warning sign that something is wrong in the environment.
Many of the threats raptors face today are human-caused, including vehicle collisions, power lines, poisoning, and habitat loss. Assisting injured birds is not interfering with nature, but rather taking responsibility for our impact and helping to restore the balance that healthy ecosystems depend on.
Can I bring my dog or other pets?
For the safety of both the birds and your pets, dogs and pets are not allowed, except registered service animals.
Is your centre suitable for children?
Yes! We offer age-appropriate education, talks, and activities. Children must be supervised at all times, and we ask that everyone remains calm around the birds.
Can I volunteer at the centre?
We love the enthusiasm! Volunteering usually requires:
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A minimum age
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A time commitment
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Training and adherence to strict protocols
Please contact us or check our website for current opportunities.
How can I support your work?
You can help by:
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Visiting the centre
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Making a donation
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Sponsoring a bird
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Attending fundraising events
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Spreading awareness about raptor conservation
Every bit of support helps injured birds get a second chance.
Are you registered and permitted to keep these birds?
Yes. We operate under the required permits and registrations and work closely with conservation authorities and veterinary professionals.
Why don’t you take rats from the public to feed your birds?
Because it isn’t safe for birds of prey. Most wild rats have been exposed to rodent poison, even if they appear healthy. When a raptor eats a poisoned rat, the toxin passes up the food chain and can cause serious illness or death. Wild rats can also carry diseases and parasites, and their history is unknown. For the welfare of our birds, we only feed approved, safely sourced food.