Written by: Beverley Wilcock
Looking for somewhere other than the zoo to see some animals? Maybe you want to unwind by cuddling some kitties or take the kids to learn more about animal rescue. Fear not. Joburg has many places to see animals, and we’ve got the scoop (not the poop scoop!) just for you.
Woodrock Cat Café
Come enjoy the purrfect day and get your cappuccino (or is that cat-puccino?) with Woodrock’s feline friends at the Cat Café. Have your next meeting in a tranquil, fluffy space or bring the kids along to the reading corner and know that all your money will not only get you delicious coffee and snacks but will also go towards Woodrock’s mission of helping neglected animals. There are 20 kitties for you to meet at the Cat Café, and they have an adoption board. So, who knows you may even meet your new BFF who’s looking for a new home! You can also follow them on Facebook and Instagram for all the latest news and updates.
Details: Shop 109A Upper Level, Kyalami Corner, Kyalami | 010 335 0698 | www.woodrockanimalrescue.co.za
Bunny Hop Haven
Pop (or is that hop?) in for a visit at Bunny Hop Haven and not only will you get to cuddle bunnies, hamsters and other small farm animals, but you will also help raise funds to find these cuties new homes. Bunny Hop Haven is a rescue centre dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming, where possible, as many of the small furry friends in their care. Join them over Easter weekend for an art workshop on 05 April 2026 and a mini market on 06 April 2026. All funds raised from these events will also benefit the furry friends at Bunny Hop Haven.
Details: 59 Frederick Street, Observatory | 072 817 5968 | [email protected]
Montecasino Bird Gardens
Looking for friends of a feathered flock? Then Montecasino Bird Gardens is the place for you. Not only are they the only bird park of their type in Joburg but they are also the only bird park of their kind in Africa. Enjoy their aviary with a large selection of birds, including three of the six types of flamingos, as well as free roaming small mammals. There are also bird demonstrations, and the Flamingo Café that overlooks the flamingo pond if you get peckish (or hangry!). The Montecasino Bird Gardens is open from Wednesdays till Sundays, and special discounts are available for pensioners so bring gogo and grandpa along too.
Details: Cnr William Nicol Drive & Montecasino Boulevard, Fourways | 011 511 1864 | [email protected]
Snake City
Want to get up close and personal with some reptiles? Then Visit Snake City and their Deadly Dozen. Not only do they offer reptile shows, but you can also book parties with them and learn more about these fascinating cold-blooded creatures. All their efforts are also centred around conservation, as they put it: conservation through education and entertainment. Whether you’re just looking for a day visit or your next party venue, Snake City has you covered, and you can even have a bonfire night. They are open from Mondays to Saturdays from 9 am till 5 pm, or if you’re feeling really brave, join the nocturnal viewing on Fridays after 5 pm.
Details: 17 Voortrekker Avenue, Edenvale | 084 916 4737 | [email protected] | https://www.snakecity.co.za/
Asher’s Farm Sanctuary
If you’re up for a short road trip, a sho’t left if you will, then Asher’s Farm Sanctuary in Pretoria should definitely be your next stop. It is home to a variety of farm animals like chickens, cows, pigs and horses. Here you won’t just get a tour and hear the stories of each of the animals living their best lives, but you can also experience the pleasure of actually grooming a horse! You can book an individual, group or school tour.
Visit their website to book your tour or read up on their restaurant, Asher’s Corner Café’s, delicious menu filled with vegan delights. All proceeds also go towards caring for the animals at the sanctuary. So not only will you get a wonderful farm experience and delicious vegan meal – if you visit their restaurant – but you’ll also help care for the animals. What could be better?
Details: Plot 37 Tweedragt, Boschkop | [email protected] | 083 784 5554
Next time you’re looking for a family day out, or you want to horse around for a bit to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life, visit one of these animal venues and get up close and personal with some creatures great and small. You can even do your bit for charity while you’re at it. You won’t regret it. We promise.