About Us
Deep in the heart of The Crags, near Plettenberg Bay, lies a hidden world where the sky is enclosed by a shimmering, two-hectare mesh dome—the largest of its kind in the world. Birds of Eden is a globally recognized, award-winning sanctuary dedicated to providing a permanent, free-flight home for birds that once lived in cages. Spanning a natural gorge of indigenous forest, it offers an immersive journey into a thriving ecosystem where thousands of birds have rediscovered the joy of flight.
A Marvel of Engineering and Nature
The sanctuary’s most striking feature is its two-hectare mesh dome, the largest single-span free-flight aviary in the world.
- The Structure: Constructed over four years at a cost of R9 million, the dome uses 3.2 hectares of wire mesh suspended from 28 masts reaching up to 55 metres high. This immense volume allows birds to fly at high altitudes, mimicking their natural environment.
The Landscape: Roughly 70% of the forest within the dome is restored Afromontane forest. The terrain includes a deep gorge, natural streams, seven dams, and a walk-behind waterfall that is part of the sanctuary’s “mysterious ruin”
A World Under One Dome
The sanctuary is home to over 3,500 birds from more than 220 species, including vibrant Blue-and-yellow Macaws, elegant Caribbean Flamingos, and the elusive Knysna Turaco.
- The Experience: Visitors explore via a 1.2 km wooden walkway, much of which is elevated to offer a bird’s-eye view of the canopy. Beyond Birds: Keep your eyes peeled for giant fruit bats, golden-handed tamarins, and the tiny blue duiker antelope that roam the forest floor.
- Award-Winning Ethical Tourism
As a core member of the South African Animal Sanctuary Alliance (SAASA), Birds of Eden is a pioneer in ethical wildlife encounters. The sanctuary operates under a strict no-touch, no-petting policy, ensuring residents are never harassed. This dedication has earned global recognition, including the World Responsible Tourism Award and the Skål International Sustainable Tourism Award.
Plan Your Visit
Birds of Eden remains an all-weather facility, open every day of the year, including public holidays.
- Opening Hours: 08:00 to 17:00 (last entry at 17:00, all visitors out by 18:00).
- Accessibility: The main walkways are fully wheelchair accessible. Wheelchairs are available on-site at no charge for those with walking disabilities (pre-booking recommended).
- Guided Tours: While most visits are self-guided, guided walks can be pre-arranged for groups at no additional cost.
- Entrance is a day rate, allowing you to spend as much time as you wish inside.
- Special Rates: Persons with disabilities enter for free. Seniors (60+) receive a 10% discount, or 50% on “Senior Day” Tuesdays.
Award-Winning Ethical Tourism
As a core member of the South African Animal Sanctuary Alliance (SAASA), Birds of Eden is a pioneer in ethical wildlife encounters. The sanctuary operates under a strict no-touch, no-petting policy, ensuring residents are never harassed. This dedication has earned global recognition, including the World Responsible Tourism Award and the Skål International Sustainable Tourism Award.
Self-Guided Tour (Guided on Request)
Unlike Monkeyland, Birds of Eden is primarily a self-guided experience.
This allows you to explore the world’s largest single-dome free-flight aviary at your own pace.
Ultimate Freedom:
Wander 1.2 km of elevated boardwalks through a 2.3-hectare indigenous forest without a fixed schedule.
- Unrivaled Diversity: Home to over 3,500 birds from more than 200 species, including exotic parrots, turacos, flamingos, and cranes.
- Immersive Environment: The massive 50-metre high mesh dome is often invisible, making it feel like a true wild forest.
- Unique Features: Walk behind a waterfall in the “mysterious ruin” and cross a 20-metre suspension bridge.
- Photography Paradise: Birds are rehabilitated and often unafraid of humans, allowing for incredible close-up shots.
- Bonus Wildlife: Keep an eye out for Golden-handed tamarins, giant fruit bats, and tiny Blue duikers living on the forest floor.