Located in Gansbaai, Western Cape, an area that is the centre of the many great aspects that make the southern coastline of South Africa one of the hottest eco-tourism and outdoor adventure destinations in the world, you'll find the African Penguin and Seabird Sanctuary.
The African Penguin and Seabird Sanctuary was established in February 2015 by the Dyer Island Conservation Trust for the protection and rehabilitation of the beautiful birds to which the Western Cape is home.
The African Penguin & Seabird Sanctuary was initially set up to assist the endangered African penguin, working primarily with the colony of Dyer Island, an important bird area, where the species has declined drastically by almost 90 per cent in the last 30 years. This unfortunately means that the African penguin could be extinct within a decade if no active intervention takes place. The rescue, rehabilitation and release of every single penguin in distress, makes a crucial contribution to the conservation of the species.
The African Penguin and Seabird Sanctuary is home to over 250 penguins and a variety of other seabirds. The sanctuary provides a safe haven for these animals to breed and raise their young without the threat of predators or human interference.
What to expect on your trip to the sanctuary
When visiting the African Penguin and Seabird Sanctuary, you can expect to find a spacious facility that is equipped with a big-screen television for live viewings of the activities performed in the rehabilitation area, which includes the bird hospital and the clinic that is attached to it.
Visitors are able to learn about the penguins and seabirds while participating in penguin feedings and walks. As the sanctuary is not a zoo or animal touch farm, there is no guarantee that you will see a penguin or seabird when you visit, so consider phoning in advance.
There is also a coffee shop where you can grab a cup of coffee and a freshly baked slice of cake after your visit as well as a curio shop where you can purchase memorabilia.
What you need to know about the sanctuary
The African Penguin & Seabird Sanctuary is open daily to the public from 9:00 to 16:00 each day with a feeding time that can be viewed at 15:00.
Entrance to the African Penguin and Seabird Sanctuary is free, but donations are welcome. In fact, these donations and sponsorships are the key to the success of this initiative and to the ongoing protection and rehabilitation of the animals.
For any further information or to stay updated on the progress of the African Penguin and Seabird Sanctuary, follow their Facebook page and check out their website.
Gansbaai, the area that surrounds the sanctuary
Gansbaai is a beautifully lush, family-orientated neighbourhood with so much on offer for its residents. With gorgeous surroundings, various amenities and a safe and clean reputation, more and more people are looking to move to this stunning area. Whether you are looking to relocate or invest, Seeff has a wide variety of homes available near African Penguin and Seabird Sanctuary and other amenities you love. If you would like to know more or simply wish to browse, check out our properties for sale today.