Surrounding Area | Plettenberg Bay
Situated in the heart of the Garden Route, Plettenberg Bay is a dream for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. From pristine beaches and dramatic cliffs to lush forests and world-class wildlife sanctuaries, there's so much to explore here. To help make the most of your visit, here are some of our top picks for nature and wildlife experiences in and around Plett.
If there’s one place you can’t miss, it’s the Robberg Nature Reserve. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers stunning hiking trails, fascinating history and wildlife encounters you’ll never forget. With rocks dating back 120 million years and archaeological sites like Nelson Bay Cave, Robberg offers a glimpse into the Stone Age alongside stunning natural scenery.
Expect to see rugged cliffs plunging into turquoise waters, sweeping views of the Indian Ocean and the distant barks of the reserve’s resident Cape fur seals. Depending on the season, you might even spot dolphins playing offshore or majestic whales breaching. For bird enthusiasts, it’s a dream come true—so don’t forget your binoculars!
Hiking trails for every fitness level:For thrill-seekers, try abseiling down the cliffs or bring your gear (and permits!) for peaceful rock and surf fishing.
Insider tips:
Tenikwa is the perfect place to build a deeper connection and learn more about South Africa’s wildlife and conservation efforts. This non-profit organisation focuses on rehabilitating injured and orphaned animals, giving you a chance to get up close with cheetahs, leopards, servals and so much more in an ethical and educational setting.
At Tenikwa, it's not just about seeing animals; it's about understanding their roles in our ecosystem and the conservation efforts to protect them. The centre offers a variety of conservation-based wildlife tours, including the popular Wild Cat Experience, where you can learn about our native predators like cheetahs, leopards, servals and caracals. Families with younger children will love the EcoKidz Family Challenge, an interactive tour designed for kids aged 6–12.
Insider tip: Book your tour in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability. Remember, Tenikwa enforces a strict no-touching policy to ensure the well-being of the animals.
Good to know:Monkeyland is all about giving primates a second chance at life in a free-roaming forest environment. This sanctuary is home to over 700 rescued monkeys, including lemurs, gibbons and capuchins, from all over the world. Join a guided safari walk that takes you right into the action, where you'll witness primates swinging freely above and around you. It's an immersive experience that provides insight into the lives of these fascinating creatures and the conservation efforts dedicated to their survival.
A visit to Monkeyland Primate Sanctuary offers a unique opportunity to connect with primates in a natural setting, making it a memorable addition to your Garden Route adventure.
Insider tip: Don't miss the 128-meter suspended canopy bridge, the longest of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere, which offers a unique vantage point to observe the primates in their treetop habitats.
Good to know:Step into the world’s largest free-flight aviary, where hundreds of bird species live and thrive in a natural forest setting. Birds of Eden is not just a sanctuary; it’s an immersive experience that allows you to experience birds flying freely in a spacious habitat. Stroll along elevated walkways and across suspension bridges as hundreds of colourful birds, from vibrant parrots and turacos to exotic species you’ve never even heard of, soar around you. It's a paradise for both bird enthusiasts and photographers, providing countless opportunities to observe and capture these creatures in their element.
Insider tip: Allocate enough time for your visit; with no set tour duration, you can explore at your own pace and fully immerse yourself in the experience.
Good to know:
Plettenberg Bay is where nature and wildlife come alive in the most spectacular ways. Whether you’re hiking along the cliffs of Robberg, walking among monkeys and hundreds of bird species, or learning about conservation at Tenikwa, there’s something here for everyone. So grab your binoculars, lace up your walking shoes and get ready to explore the wild side of Plett!
** Note: Always check opening hours and availability online before visiting. This guide is accurate at the time of publishing.
The Robberg Beach Lodge | reservations@lionroars.com | +27 (0)21 424 1530
Central Reservations
Tel:
+27 21 424 1530
Email:
reservations@lionroars.com
The Robberg Beach lodge
Tel:
+27 (0)44 011 0474
Email:
therobberg@lionroars.com
