Birds of Eden, east of Plettenberg Bay in the Garden Route, is the biggest single free flight aviary in the World.

Yellow-billed Hornbills

This unique two hectare dome spans over a gorge of indigenous forest which comprises 70% of the aviary.  The volume allows the creation of habitat niches for the large variety of species that find sanctuary here.

Wooden walkways lead through the forest, over rivers and behind waterfalls. There are even storms emulated within the dome with claps of thunder and short cloudbursts from the irrigation system, providing an overwhelming experience of nature and wildlife.

Currently over 3500 birds live at the sanctuary comprising a mixture of exotic as well African birds (50/50). Birds include previously caged pets and hand reared and imprinted individuals. It is an amazing and safe environment for the birds.

The park also enables bird owners to apply to release their pet birds into the sanctuary. All new arrivals at Birds of Eden go through a process of rehabilitation before they enter the actual sanctuary of the main aviary. Be they ex pets, or birds confiscated from zoos or not-reputable breeders, most of the birds that arrive at Birds of Eden have a history of being caged in small environments.The main rehabilitation process involves socialization with other birds in large outdoor pre-release aviaries as well as the building up of flight muscles, and learning flight control.

The sanctuary has its own mysterious ruin, which incorporates a walk-behind waterfall. Another feature is its amphitheatre, which has the ability to seat over 200 visitors.

It is a stunning place to visit, and offers many opportunities to capture that perfect photo of some very colourful and often very friendly and inquisitive birds.

How to get there:
Birds of Eden is situated in The Crags, 16km east from Plettenberg Bay, 2km off the N2, and the tarred road is well signed (Monkeyland).

GPS Coordinates: 33 degrees 57′ 55″ South ; 23 degrees 28′ 57″ East

Phone: +27 (0) 44 534 8906