Mitchell Park Zoo
A charming, affordable zoo in Durban featuring diverse small animals, a playground, and a unique cat care initiative.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Mitchell Park Zoo
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming, affordable zoo in Durban featuring diverse small animals, a playground, and a unique cat care initiative.
"It's so well-maintained and absolutely lovely. I enjoyed seeing all the animals!"
🐾 Visit the Cat Feeding
Witness the heartwarming cat feeding initiative. Follow @parkkitties on Instagram for details!
🚶♀️ Stroll with Peacocks
Enjoy the sight of peacocks freely roaming the grounds. A beautiful, natural addition to the zoo.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Playful Kitties
Cat Feeding Area
See adorable cats being fed and cared for by dedicated volunteers. A heartwarming initiative for animal lovers.
Free-Roaming Peacocks
Zoo Grounds
Majestic peacocks wander freely, adding a touch of wild beauty to the park's serene atmosphere.
Aviary Wonders
Aviary
Explore a variety of bird species in well-maintained enclosures, a delight for bird enthusiasts.
African Crested Porcupine
Animal Enclosure
Meet Poe, the fascinating African Crested Porcupine, a unique resident of the zoo.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds
Low Entry Fee
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐾 Visit the Cat Feeding
Witness the heartwarming cat feeding initiative. Follow @parkkitties on Instagram for details!
🚶♀️ Stroll with Peacocks
Enjoy the sight of peacocks freely roaming the grounds. A beautiful, natural addition to the zoo.
💰 Affordable Entry
Expect very low entrance fees, often under R20 per person. Great value for a family outing.
Porcupine Encounter
Say hello to Poe, the African Crested Porcupine! Check zoo hours for her viewing times.
Tips
from all over the internet
🐾 Visit the Cat Feeding
Witness the heartwarming cat feeding initiative. Follow @parkkitties on Instagram for details!
🚶♀️ Stroll with Peacocks
Enjoy the sight of peacocks freely roaming the grounds. A beautiful, natural addition to the zoo.
💰 Affordable Entry
Expect very low entrance fees, often under R20 per person. Great value for a family outing.
Porcupine Encounter
Say hello to Poe, the African Crested Porcupine! Check zoo hours for her viewing times.
Team Building Fun
Great spot for team building activities, as seen by @dalaucrew.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Mitchell Park Zoo is a well-maintained, affordable destination with a heartwarming cat feeding initiative and free-roaming peacocks. While some enclosures could use improvement, visitors praise the healthy animals and pleasant atmosphere, making it a lovely family outing.
"I visited this place for the first time and was honestly astonished! It’s so well-maintained and absolutely lovely. I enjoyed seeing all the animals, but I was really on a mission —to make sure the kitties were well-fed! I absolutely love the initiative of the cat feedings. The cats are so well taken care of, and it truly warms my heart to see them getting the love and care they deserve."
Shauneez Bheekoo
"It was Okay . I've been going there from the time I was small , the park has changed alot . I wish there was a restaurant in the Zoo so you can eat in there cause there's no restaurants anywhere else . The park was kind of unkept , flower gardens were good , it was a Quiet day for a Saturday. The entrance fees were really low under R20 per person . Some of the enclosures were empty and there's only bushes. The reptile house was dirty and I think it was closed but there's still spiders in it , hope they are taken care of . Some of the enclosures seem small for the animals. Like so many birds in a small cage . I feel like they need more space . Overall I love the park and will be back"
Shweta Birbal
"Small zoos, not many big attractions it's basically like a bird park. There are beautiful peacocks that walk freely around the area and nice small well maintained enclosures. Would recommend for kids who love animals"
Kaelin Kesavjee
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mitchell Park Zoo is located in Durban. While specific public transport details aren't widely shared, many visitors opt for private vehicles or ride-sharing services. The zoo is a popular spot for a day out, so planning your travel in advance is recommended.
Parking availability can vary, especially on busy days. It's advisable to arrive early or consider alternative transport if you're visiting during peak times.
For families, driving directly to the zoo or using a taxi service is often the most convenient. This allows for easy transport of children and any necessary gear.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fees are very affordable, typically under R20 per person, making it an economical choice for a family outing.
Information on discounts isn't readily available, but the standard entry fee is already very low. It's always a good idea to check their official channels for any updates.
The zoo is generally open until 6 PM, with last admission at 5 PM, especially on Fridays. It's best to confirm exact hours before your visit, as they can vary.
Online booking information is not widely advertised. Given the low entry fee, tickets are typically purchased at the entrance upon arrival.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The zoo features a variety of small animals, including birds in an aviary, peacocks that roam freely, and a special enclosure for Poe, the African Crested Porcupine.
Yes, Mitchell Park Zoo has a playground, making it a fun destination for families with children.
While there's a tea garden, some visitors have noted a desire for a more extensive restaurant. It's recommended to bring your own snacks or plan accordingly.
The park is a lovely place for a picnic, with some areas being well-maintained for visitors to relax and enjoy their meals.
Reviews are mixed. While some enclosures are well-maintained, others have been noted as empty or small for the animals. The reptile house has also been mentioned as needing attention.
📸 📸 Photography
The free-roaming peacocks offer fantastic photo opportunities. The well-maintained gardens at the entrance and the various animal enclosures also provide great shots.
Yes, photography of the animals is generally permitted. Be mindful of any specific signage or guidelines within the zoo.
No specific restrictions are widely mentioned, but always be respectful of the animals and other visitors. Avoid using flash photography directly at animals if it might disturb them.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
With low entrance fees (often under R20), it's an accessible outing for everyone. While the zoo is smaller, the variety of birds and the free-roaming peacocks provide engaging sights. The cat feeding initiative is also a heartwarming experience that kids might enjoy observing.
Pro-tip: Pack some snacks and drinks, as food options are limited to a tea garden. Weekday visits are recommended to avoid larger crowds and ensure a more relaxed experience for the little ones.
💰 Budget Travelers
This low cost allows for a full day of exploration without breaking the bank. You can enjoy the animals, the gardens, and the playground without worrying about expensive tickets. It’s a perfect option for those looking to experience a local attraction affordably.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Cat Initiative: Mitchell Park Paws
Instagram accounts like @parkkitties showcase the dedication of these volunteers and the well-being of the cats. Visitors can learn about how to get involved or simply appreciate the effort put into ensuring these neighborhood cats are fed and cared for. It adds a unique and compassionate dimension to the zoo experience.
This initiative highlights the community's commitment to animal welfare, making a visit to Mitchell Park Zoo not just about observing wildlife, but also about supporting a cause that makes a tangible difference in the lives of local animals.
Navigating the Zoo: Tips from Visitors
Some visitors note that certain enclosures can appear empty or small for the animals housed within them, and the reptile house has been mentioned as needing improvement. However, many reviews highlight the healthy and well-kept birds and animals, clean cages, and neat grounds, especially in the flower gardens at the entrance.
For families, the playground is a significant draw, and the overall low entrance fee makes it an accessible outing. Despite some areas needing upkeep, the zoo remains a popular spot for a lovely family outing and a chance to enjoy nature and animals in a peaceful setting.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit