Intaka Island Cape Town
A 16-hectare man-made wetland sanctuary in Century City, Cape Town, offering diverse birdlife, walking trails, and educational experiences.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Wildlife is most active
Intaka Island Cape Town
Best Time
Wildlife is most active
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 16-hectare man-made wetland sanctuary in Century City, Cape Town, offering diverse birdlife, walking trails, and educational experiences.
"Intaka Island is an oasis hidden away in the centre of Century City, alive with the sound of nature."
Tram Ticket Info
Tram tickets are R70 per person, free for under 2s. Buy directly from the conductor. Boards every 30 mins.
Affordable Entry
Entry is R32 per adult, making it a budget-friendly nature escape.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Bird Hides
Various locations within the island
Get up close to diverse bird species in their natural habitat. Perfect for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
Canal Boat Ride
Century City Canals
A serene journey offering unique views of Century City and its surrounding nature from the water.
Walking Trails
Throughout Intaka Island
Explore lush greenery and diverse flora on well-maintained paths, ideal for a peaceful stroll.
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Wetlands
Tram & Boat Adventures
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Tram Ticket Info
Tram tickets are R70 per person, free for under 2s. Buy directly from the conductor. Boards every 30 mins.
Affordable Entry
Entry is R32 per adult, making it a budget-friendly nature escape.
Kid-Friendly Fun
Great for families! Offers educational walks and a chance to see nature up close.
Best for Birdwatching
Visit during warmer months for peak bird activity and nesting.
Tips
from all over the internet
Tram Ticket Info
Tram tickets are R70 per person, free for under 2s. Buy directly from the conductor. Boards every 30 mins.
Affordable Entry
Entry is R32 per adult, making it a budget-friendly nature escape.
Kid-Friendly Fun
Great for families! Offers educational walks and a chance to see nature up close.
Best for Birdwatching
Visit during warmer months for peak bird activity and nesting.
Pack for Comfort
Wear comfortable shoes for walking the natural paths. :athletic_shoe:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Intaka Island is praised as a lovely, man-made wetland reserve with good birdlife and pleasant canal tours. Visitors appreciate the serene atmosphere, informative walks, and the educational aspects, making it a worthwhile experience for all ages. Some note that wildlife activity can be weather-dependent.
"Its lovely for a man made wetland reserve, with some good birdie present. And a little boat tour through the canal is pleasant as you get to see some of Century City from the canal. The staff are friendly and have som quirky stories to share. And a walk around the island is decent for stretching your legs and getting outside."
Jody Daniels
"This is a wonderful experience and a lovely learning experience for any age. The paths are natural paths and the bird life and walking tours are amazing and very informative. So worth it to take a family card for the year."
Sharonette Olivier
"We took a boat and tram ride to see another side of century city. The ladies on the boat were very helpful, made learning about the area fun and they were very knowledgeable. We took a walk around intaka island and at ratanga park. Although the views were beautiful, there wasnt much life to see as it was a fairly cool day. Would def like to go back when it is warmer and the animals come out."
Marí Hamman
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Intaka Island is located in Century City. You can reach it by car, with ample parking available. Public transport options include MyCiTi buses that service Century City. The tram also departs from Ratanga Park, which is accessible via public transport. 
Yes, MyCiTi buses serve Century City, making it accessible via public transport. The tram also offers a route that can connect you to the island.
There is parking available in Century City, which is adjacent to Intaka Island. Specific parking details can be found on the Century City website.
Intaka Island is situated within Century City, so if you are visiting other attractions in Century City, like Ratanga Park, it is within walking distance.
Yes, Intaka Island is an excellent day trip from Cape Town city center, offering a peaceful escape into nature. It's about a 20-30 minute drive depending on traffic.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entry fee for Intaka Island is R32 per adult. Children's pricing may vary, and it's advisable to check for any family packages or discounts.
While entry to the island itself doesn't always require advance booking, it's highly recommended to book tram and boat rides in advance, especially on weekends or during peak season, to secure your spot.
Intaka Island is open to visitors and groups 364 days a year. Specific operating hours for attractions like the tram and boat rides can vary, so it's best to check their official schedule.
Yes, there are sometimes deals like WikiDeals available for the tram ride. It's worth checking for any special offers or family packages before your visit.
Tickets for the tram can be bought from the conductor via a card machine. For entry to the island itself, payment is typically made on-site.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
At Intaka Island, you can enjoy guided or self-guided walks, birdwatching from hides, a boat ride through the canals, and explore the educational eco-centre.
Absolutely! Intaka Island is very family-friendly, offering an educational and engaging experience with nature, wildlife, and interactive learning opportunities.
Intaka Island is a haven for birdlife, including ducks, ibises, and cormorants. You might also spot other indigenous flora and fauna.
Yes, guided walking tours are available, offering in-depth information about the island's ecosystem and wildlife. Self-guided options are also plentiful.
Yes, there are picnic spots available, making it a great place to enjoy a relaxed meal surrounded by nature.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While Intaka Island itself is primarily a nature reserve, there are cafes and restaurants within Century City, a short walk away, where you can find dining options.
Yes, bringing your own food for a picnic is a great option, as there are designated picnic spots available on the island.
Century City offers a variety of restaurants, from casual eateries to more upscale dining, catering to different tastes and budgets.
📸 📸 Photography
The bird hides offer fantastic opportunities for wildlife photography. The walking trails provide scenic views of the wetlands and diverse plant life.
Yes, the tranquil wetlands, diverse plant life, and reflections on the water create beautiful landscape photography opportunities, especially during the golden hours.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, creating softer shadows and warmer tones.
Drone usage is typically restricted in nature reserves and protected areas. It's advisable to check with the management of Intaka Island for their specific drone policy.
A telephoto lens is great for capturing birdlife from the hides. A wide-angle lens is useful for landscape shots of the wetlands.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The tram and boat rides are also a big hit with kids, offering a novel way to see the area. Consider packing a picnic to enjoy amidst the natural beauty, making it a full day of affordable family fun. The relatively low entry fee makes it an accessible option for budget-conscious families looking for an outdoor adventure.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples
+1It's an ideal spot to escape the city bustle and immerse yourself in nature. Bring a book to enjoy on one of the many benches, or simply soak in the sounds of the wetlands. The island provides a tranquil setting for unwinding and enjoying the natural beauty at your own pace.
🌿 Nature & Bird Enthusiasts
Beyond birdwatching, the diverse indigenous plant life and the unique wetland ecosystem provide a rich experience for anyone interested in natural environments. The guided tours offer in-depth insights into the flora and fauna, enhancing the appreciation for this urban oasis.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Intaka Island's Ecosystem
+1The island is particularly renowned for its avian population. Bird hides are strategically placed, allowing visitors to observe various species, including ducks, ibises, and cormorants, often at close range. The presence of endemic and endangered species highlights the success of conservation efforts here. Beyond the birds, the wetlands support a rich variety of indigenous plant life, contributing to the overall biodiversity and aesthetic beauty of the sanctuary.
For those interested in learning more, Intaka Island offers an educational eco-centre, the Energy Cube, which teaches visitors, especially children, about environmental conservation and the importance of protecting the planet. This blend of natural beauty, ecological significance, and educational opportunities makes Intaka Island a unique and valuable destination.
The Century City Tram and Boat Experience
+1The boat tours navigate the canals of Century City, providing a different perspective of the urban development intertwined with natural waterways. The guides on these tours are often praised for their knowledge and engaging storytelling, making the journey informative and fun. It's a pleasant way to see the area from the water, and the ladies conducting the tours are noted for being helpful and knowledgeable.
While the tram and boat rides are a highlight, it's important to note that they are not available every day and have specific operating hours. Booking in advance, especially for the boat tours, is recommended to avoid disappointment. The R70 ticket price for the tram is considered reasonable for the experience it offers, with potential deals like WikiDeals sometimes available.
+1
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit