Giraffe House Wildlife Awareness Centre
An educational wildlife sanctuary offering close encounters with African animals, including giraffes, zebras, and more.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Animals are most active
Giraffe House Wildlife Awareness Centre
Best Time
Animals are most active
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An educational wildlife sanctuary offering close encounters with African animals, including giraffes, zebras, and more.
"Truly special to see the animals up close, especially the giraffes!"
🎯 Book Giraffe Feeding Early
Special experiences like feeding the giraffes are popular and can book up quickly. Plan ahead!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the center's grounds. Comfortable footwear is a must.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Giraffe Encounters
Main enclosure
Get up close with graceful giraffes and even feed them. A truly memorable experience for all ages.
Farmyard Feeding
Farmyard area
Feed goats, llamas, and ostriches! A hands-on, fun activity that kids and adults alike will adore.
Diverse African Wildlife
Various enclosures
Discover zebras, antelopes, meerkats, and more. Learn about native African species in naturalistic settings.
Educational Shows
Designated show area
Engaging presentations by knowledgeable staff, often featuring close-up animal interactions.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Best Time to Visit for Animal Activity
Plan for Interactive Experiences
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Giraffe Feeding Early
Special experiences like feeding the giraffes are popular and can book up quickly. Plan ahead!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the center's grounds. Comfortable footwear is a must.
☀️ Pack for the Weather
Cape Town weather can be unpredictable. Bring layers, sunscreen, and a hat, especially for outdoor activities.
📸 Capture the Moments
Bring your camera or phone to snap photos of the amazing animals and your family's fun day out.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Giraffe Feeding Early
Special experiences like feeding the giraffes are popular and can book up quickly. Plan ahead!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the center's grounds. Comfortable footwear is a must.
☀️ Pack for the Weather
Cape Town weather can be unpredictable. Bring layers, sunscreen, and a hat, especially for outdoor activities.
📸 Capture the Moments
Bring your camera or phone to snap photos of the amazing animals and your family's fun day out.
☕ Cafe & Curio Shop
Grab a coffee or snack at the cafe, and find unique souvenirs in the gift shop.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Giraffe House for its engaging animal encounters, particularly the giraffe feeding, and its educational focus. The well-maintained enclosures and friendly staff contribute to a positive experience for all ages. Some suggest adding guided tours for an even richer educational component.
"I recently visited Giraffe House and was really impressed. They have a wide variety of animals, ranging from mammals, reptiles, and bird species, and of course, their beautiful giraffes, and I loved seeing all of them close up. All the animals are housed in different, well-kept, and maintained encampments, and looked very healthy. I especially loved the information sections in each area, giving some additional details on the different animals. During our visit, we were lucky enough to attend an animal feeding event, where we got to feed some goats, llamas, and ostriches – always a fun experience! To top it all off, they also have a curio shop and cafe on premises if you want to grab something to eat and drink, or want to buy some souvenirs. Visiting Giraffe House is fun for all ages, and I definitely recommend a visit."
Dewald Reinke
"We had such an amazing time at The Giraffe House! It was truly special to see the animals up close, especially the giraffes! There’s a wide variety of other animals too, all of which seem well cared for.
One of the highlights of our visit was feeding some of the animals at the farmyard, which is great fun for both kids and adults. The entire experience was also really educational, with informative boards throughout the park sharing interesting facts about the animals.
What really stood out was the educational show hosted by one of the wildlife officers. She was incredibly knowledgeable and engaging and we even got to see some of the animals up close in her hands! It was a wonderful learning experience.
The gift shop is super cute and filled with giraffe-themed items and other unique gifts. We also grabbed some coffee on the go, which was great quality and affordable.
We absolutely love this place and will definitely be back again! Highly recommended for families, animal lovers and anyone looking for a fun, educational day out."
Marquerite van der Walt
"We had such a wonderful time visiting Giraffe House! The whole experience was truly enjoyable from the friendly staff to the beautiful setting and of course the amazing animals. It’s such a pleasure to see how well everything is maintained
Highly recommended for anyone looking for a fun and enriching day out!"
John-William Cloete
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Giraffe House is located just outside Cape Town, often cited as being near Stellenbosch or Paarl. Driving is the most convenient option, with ample parking available. Public transport can be challenging, so consider ride-sharing services or a rental car for ease of access. 
Yes, driving is the recommended way to reach Giraffe House. The center is situated in a scenic area, and the drive itself is often described as beautiful.
The travel time can vary depending on traffic, but it typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour to reach Giraffe House from the Cape Town CBD.
Using GPS navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze is highly recommended. Search for 'Giraffe House Wildlife Awareness Centre' for accurate directions.
Absolutely! Giraffe House is conveniently located near Stellenbosch, making it an excellent addition to a day trip in the Winelands region.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours can vary seasonally, so it's best to check their official website or social media pages for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
Admission fees are generally affordable and offer great value for the experience. Specific pricing details are usually available on their website.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance, especially for special experiences like giraffe feeding, is highly recommended to avoid disappointment.
Information on discounts for children, seniors, or group bookings may be available. It's advisable to inquire directly with the center or check their website for any current offers.
Policies on re-entry can vary. It's best to confirm with the staff at the entrance if you plan to leave and return on the same day.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Giraffe House is home to a variety of African wildlife, including giraffes, zebras, antelopes, ostriches, meerkats, and various bird species. They also have reptiles and farm animals.
Yes, Giraffe House offers interactive feeding experiences with animals like goats, llamas, and ostriches. Special giraffe feeding sessions are also available.
Absolutely! It's a very family-friendly destination with interactive elements, a play area, and educational opportunities that children love.
The center focuses on wildlife education and conservation. Informative boards throughout the park share facts about the animals, and educational shows are often hosted.
Yes, there are supervised opportunities for close interaction and feeding with certain animals, providing a unique and memorable experience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a refreshment kiosk or cafe on-site where you can purchase food and drinks.
Giraffe House is a great place to enjoy a picnic, especially on a nice day. There are grounds where you can set up and enjoy your own food.
The cafe typically offers snacks, light meals, and beverages. Coffee is often mentioned as being good quality and affordable.
Specific dietary options may vary. It's best to check with the cafe staff upon arrival for current offerings.
There are designated areas, including picnic spots, where visitors can enjoy their meals.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally encouraged. Capture the amazing animals and your family's memorable moments!
The enclosures with the giraffes and other prominent animals offer fantastic photo opportunities. Look for well-lit areas and engaging animal behaviors.
While generally allowed, be mindful of other visitors and avoid using flash photography directly at animals if it seems to disturb them.
Photography is usually permitted during shows, but always be respectful of the presenters and the animals.
A camera with a good zoom lens can be beneficial for capturing clear shots of animals from a distance. However, a smartphone camera is also perfectly adequate for most visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 The opportunity to get up close with giraffes, and even feed them, is a dream come true for many kids.The center is designed to be family-friendly, with a welcoming atmosphere and a play area for younger visitors. The educational shows are engaging and informative, making learning about wildlife fun and accessible. It’s a place where kids can connect with animals in a safe and stimulating environment, creating cherished memories.
+1❤️ Animal Lovers & Enthusiasts
The interactive encounters, such as feeding the animals, provide a unique connection that goes beyond typical zoo visits. The knowledgeable staff further enhance the experience by sharing insights into the animals' lives and conservation efforts. It's a place that truly celebrates and educates about the animal kingdom.
📸 Photography Buffs
+1 Beyond the giraffes, the diverse array of animals provides subjects for various photographic styles, from wildlife action shots to detailed close-ups.Look for well-lit areas and engaging animal behaviors to get the best shots. While a good zoom lens can be beneficial, even smartphone cameras can capture memorable images. Remember to be respectful of the animals and other visitors when taking photos.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heart of Giraffe House: Conservation and Education
The center focuses on raising public awareness about native African species and the importance of protecting their habitats. Through interactive experiences and informative displays, visitors gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for these magnificent creatures. This educational mission is a core part of their identity, aiming to foster a sense of responsibility towards wildlife preservation among all age groups.The center's commitment extends to animal welfare, ensuring that all residents are housed in well-maintained and naturalistic enclosures. This approach not only benefits the animals but also provides visitors with a more authentic and enriching viewing experience. The staff are passionate about their work, often sharing fascinating insights and stories about the animals they care for, making the visit both enjoyable and educational.
Whether it's learning about the unique adaptations of a giraffe or the social structures of meerkats, Giraffe House provides a platform for meaningful engagement with the natural world. It's a place where fun and learning go hand-in-hand, leaving visitors with lasting memories and a renewed respect for wildlife.
Interactive Animal Encounters: Feeding and Beyond
+1Beyond the giraffes, the farmyard area offers further hands-on fun. Here, guests can feed animals like goats, llamas, and ostriches, adding an element of playful engagement to the visit. These feeding sessions are not only enjoyable but also serve as a practical way to learn about the dietary needs and behaviors of different species.
These interactive experiences are carefully managed to ensure the safety and well-being of both the animals and visitors. Knowledgeable staff are on hand to guide the interactions, making sure everyone has a positive and educational experience. It’s this direct engagement that sets Giraffe House apart, transforming a typical zoo visit into a truly memorable adventure.
Planning Your Visit: Tips from Fellow Travelers
Comfort is key, so wearing comfortable shoes is a frequently mentioned piece of advice, as you'll be exploring the grounds on foot.
Finally, don't forget to check the schedule for animal feeding times and educational shows, as these are often highlights of the visit and can be booked in advance. The on-site cafe and curio shop also offer convenient options for refreshments and souvenirs.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit