Here’s a thing… there are very few places that can claim that you’re able to see the world’s large terrestrial mammal and the world’s largest marine mammal in the same day. Plettenberg Bay falls into that elite group. Our wildlife encounter range from Big Five sightings to marine safaris and include some of the most respected animal sanctuaries in South Africa. Below is our list of unforgettable animal encounters in Plettenberg Bay:
PLETT GAME RESERVE
This little gem is located just 20km outside town, along the Wittedrift road. The enormous reception building includes a roaring fire, friendly staff and a coffee shop and guests have the opportunity to either take a 4×4 game drive or a horseback safari around the 2000ha game reserve. Predators are kept in a separate section of the reserve, however, guests are able to view elephant, lion, buffalo, rhino, leopard, giraffe, hippo and much, much more. Distance from Amakaya Backpackers: 22km
MONKEYLAND
Monkeyland is the world’s first free-roaming, multi-species primate sanctuary and their strict no-touch policy is proof of their respect and love for their charges. The forest is alive with the roaring of howler monkeys as guests scan the trees for sightings. On the guided safaris, you can expect to see a variety of primates, ranging from the Gibbons of Asia to the Lemurs of Madagascar. More than 700 primates live at the sanctuary. During the guided tours, knowledgeable rangers will tell you all about the fascinating primates as you encounter them. A marvellous outing for families. Distance from Amakaya Backpackers: 24km
OFFSHORE ADVENTURES
Be prepared to be amazed! The Cape fur seals of Robberg are graceful and inquisitive, and you have the opportunity to hop into the clear waters off Robberg Peninsula and swim with them as they glide and jump through the water! The boat leaves from Plett’s Central Beach and crosses the bay to the peninsula with the opportunity of encountering dolphins and whales along the way. This adventure is half about the adrenaline of being amongst these lightening-fast mammals and half about the sheer beauty of the location. Distance from Amakaya Backpackers to Central Beach: 1.5km
BIRDS OF EDEN
Fans of the film, Jurassic Park and nature-lovers, in general, can expect to be blown away by Birds of Eden! The world’s largest free-flight aviary is a
unique two-hectare dome that spans over a gorge of indigenous forest. Currently, it is home to over 3,500 birds from over 220 species, with the main focus African birds. Stroll along boardwalks and bridges across the waterways as parrots sweep across the dome, catch glimpses of the colourful Knysna touraco and golden pheasant or stroll past the flamingos. Birds of Eden is right next door to Monkeyland, so it makes a lovely day trip. Distance from Amakaya Backpackers: 24km
OCEAN BLUE ADVENTURES
A marine safari is an absolute must when visiting Plettenberg Bay. The official whale season is from June – November when the Southern right and humpback whales visit the bay to mate and birth. However, year-round we encounter three species of dolphin, Bryde’s whale, seals, sharks, coastal birds and, on occasion, orcas. A morning spent in the big blue with the tang of salty sea air and sunshine is the perfect way to really experience the essence of Plettenberg Bay. Marine safaris launch from Plett’s Central Beach. Distance from Amakaya Backpackers: 1.5km
BOOK YOUR STAY AT AMAKAYA BACKPACKERS
