Tenikwa Wildlife Awareness Centre

About Tenikwa Wildlife Awareness Centre

As one of the Garden Route's wildest attractions, Tenikwa celebrates the variety and impressive beauty of some of Africa's best wildlife species. But, more than just providing a safe home for these animals, Tenikwa is also focussed on rehabilitating rescued animals and allowing visitors the incredible opportunity of interacting with some very special species when booking a tour.

This wildlife centre is situated in the scenic area of The Crags, just outside Plettenberg Bay and a little over 30 minutes from Knysna. It began in 2002 as a garden shed for bird rehabilitation and has grown into a massive facility that is the home and rehab centre for birds, land animals, and even marine animals. The hospital alone treats between 200 and 400 animals every year; making Tenikwa a real gem for the animals and the humans that love them

Popular features of Tenikwa include

The Wildlife Centre
The conservation-based wildlife tours are fantastic and visitors can look forward to seeing the cheetah, African wild cat, caracal, serval, leopard and lion. When entering the cheetah enclosure, guests get the opportunity to meet these cats up close. As a Fair Trade Certified establishment, Tenikwa adheres to strict safety protocols. Whilst practicing responsible tourism, they ensure that all tours are educational and enriching for both guests and cats..

The Marine Conservation Awareness area
See and learn more about the marine species of South Africa and the challenges that they face. The endangered African penguin is a favourite star of this tour.

The Meerkat Meander
Abandoned pet meerkats or those confiscated from unworthy owners find their happy home at Tenikwa, and are absolutely gorgeous to meet. Their playfulness is irresistible and fabulous for young and old alike.

There is a variety of programmes for visitors to enjoy – each focussing on a different aspect of African wildlife conservation, and each suitable for a different budget. All of the funds received to enter Tenikwa are put back into rehabilitation and conservation projects.

There is also a coffee shop here that offers fresh baked goodies and delicious light meals that smack of South African flavours. The souvenir shop boasts keepsakes and gifts that are all responsibly sourced and wildlife-friendly.

Tenikwa is a Garden Route treasure and well worth a visit for those wanting to celebrate the magnificent biodiversity of South Africa.