Umgeni River Bird Park Durban
Discover exotic birds in a lush tropical setting, featuring captivating shows and interactive encounters. A family-friendly Durban attraction.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, active birds
Umgeni River Bird Park Durban
Best Time
Fewer crowds, active birds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover exotic birds in a lush tropical setting, featuring captivating shows and interactive encounters. A family-friendly Durban attraction.
"The best value for money family day out - Umgeni River Bird Park!"
🎯 Arrive Early for Peace
Beat the crowds by visiting on a weekday morning. Enjoy a more tranquil experience with active birds.
✈️ Don't Miss the Show!
Plan your visit around the 11 AM or 2 PM fly-by show for an unforgettable bird spectacle.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Fly-By Show
Main Arena
Witness a spectacular display of birds in flight, a truly captivating experience for all ages.
Interactive Bird Encounters
Various Enclosures
Get up close with friendly and unique bird species, some of whom are known for their vocal talents!
Lush Tropical Setting
Throughout the Park
Explore 3.5 hectares of vibrant tropical plants, waterfalls, and lush greenery, a serene escape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for a Great Visit
Support This Unique Durban Gem
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Peace
Beat the crowds by visiting on a weekday morning. Enjoy a more tranquil experience with active birds.
✈️ Don't Miss the Show!
Plan your visit around the 11 AM or 2 PM fly-by show for an unforgettable bird spectacle.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be doing a lot of walking through the lush grounds, so wear comfy shoes.
📸 Capture the Moments
Bring your camera to snap photos of the diverse and unique bird species.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Peace
Beat the crowds by visiting on a weekday morning. Enjoy a more tranquil experience with active birds.
✈️ Don't Miss the Show!
Plan your visit around the 11 AM or 2 PM fly-by show for an unforgettable bird spectacle.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be doing a lot of walking through the lush grounds, so wear comfy shoes.
📸 Capture the Moments
Bring your camera to snap photos of the diverse and unique bird species.
💰 Support the Park
Your admission helps maintain this unique Durban attraction. Consider it an investment in conservation.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Umgeni River Bird Park for its engaging bird encounters and the spectacular fly-by show, making it a hit with families. While some areas show signs of wear, the health and care of the birds are commendable, and the lush tropical setting offers a peaceful escape. The friendly staff and unique bird personalities add to the charm of this Durban gem.
"It was a great experience, especially for kids! They seemed to enjoy it even more than the adults. Although the variety of birds wasn't extensive, the kids had a blast. I didn't feel like it was crowded, but I can imagine it would be busier during school holidays. Overall, we really enjoyed our visit!"
J J Travel Short
"My kids loved this place. The lady at the entrance spent time explaining to us about different types of birds. The tuck shop man and the gogo there were very friendly. unfortunately we didn't get on time for the show. I deeply love this place"
Nokhuthula Ndlovu (Nono)
"Please support the bird park so they can keep the interesting park going. There’s a coffee and tea place to relax and enjoy the sounds of the park. Some birds are really unique. Plan to stay for the 11am or 2pm fly by show. The kids will love it.
Plenty of parking available. A unique place to visit."
Luc Harmsen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The park is located at 490 North Coast Road, Durban. Many visitors arrive by car, and there is plenty of parking available. If you're staying in the North Beach area, it's a short drive or taxi ride away. +2
While specific bus routes can vary, it's generally recommended to check local Durban transport schedules. Taxis or ride-sharing services are a reliable option from most areas in Durban.
For convenience, especially if you're exploring multiple sites, renting a car or using ride-sharing apps like Uber or Bolt is highly recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The park is typically open daily, but it's always best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date opening hours before your visit.
Admission fees are generally affordable, making it a great value for a family day out. Check their official channels for current pricing.
While not always explicitly stated, it's advisable to check their website for online booking options, especially during peak seasons to secure your entry.
Keep an eye out for potential group discounts or special offers, particularly if you're visiting with a larger party or during specific promotional periods.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll find a diverse range of exotic species, from colorful parrots and majestic eagles to unique waterfowl. The park focuses on a variety of avian life.
Yes, the park hosts a popular fly-by show twice daily, usually around 11 AM and 2 PM. This is a highlight for many visitors.
Absolutely! It's a fantastic place for kids, offering an engaging and educational experience. They often enjoy it even more than the adults.
Mornings are generally best when birds are most active. Arriving early also helps you avoid larger crowds.
Some birds are very social and interactive, offering unique opportunities for close encounters. Always follow staff guidance for safe interactions.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there's a tuck shop and a coffee and tea place where you can grab snacks and refreshments. Peacocks are known to enjoy leftovers! +1
While outside food policies can vary, it's generally a good idea to check with the park directly. However, the onsite options are convenient.
Expect typical park fare like snacks, drinks, and light meals. The food is considered good by visitors.
📸 📸 Photography
The lush tropical gardens, diverse bird enclosures, and the fly-by show offer numerous photo opportunities. Look for unique plant species and bird behaviors.
Yes, photography is generally allowed for personal use. Be mindful of other visitors and avoid using flash if it might disturb the birds.
A telephoto lens can be useful for capturing birds in their enclosures, but a standard zoom lens is versatile for general shots of the park and its inhabitants.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To ensure a smooth visit, aim for weekday mornings to avoid peak crowds, especially during school holidays. Comfortable shoes are a must for little explorers. The park's friendly staff are often happy to share insights about the birds, adding an educational element to the fun. Don't forget to check the show times to catch the spectacular fly-by!
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider visiting during off-peak hours on weekdays to potentially enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere without the higher holiday crowds. The park provides a unique opportunity to connect with nature and wildlife without a hefty price tag, making it a worthwhile addition to your itinerary.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
While a telephoto lens can be beneficial for close-ups of birds in their enclosures, a versatile zoom lens will serve well for capturing the overall ambiance of the park. Remember to be mindful of lighting conditions and avoid disturbing the birds with flash photography.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into the Park's History and Conservation
The park plays a crucial role in bird conservation and education. While some visitors have noted signs of wear and tear, the commitment to the well-being of the birds is evident. Educational boards at each exhibit provide valuable information, making it an ideal destination for school excursions and anyone interested in learning more about avian species.
Community support is vital for the park's continued success. Visitors are encouraged to patronize the park to help maintain its operations and ensure the ongoing care of its unique inhabitants. The park's history is intertwined with its present mission: to provide a safe haven and an educational platform for birds and people alike.
Experiencing the Bird Shows and Interactions
Beyond the scheduled shows, the park offers opportunities for interactive bird encounters. Some of the birds are remarkably social and friendly, allowing for close-up views and even gentle interactions under the supervision of park staff. Stories of a particularly friendly yellow-crested cockatoo and a parrot that loves to say 'hello' highlight these unique moments.
To make the most of these experiences, it's recommended to plan your visit around the show times. Arriving early not only helps you secure a good viewing spot but also allows for a more relaxed exploration of the park's exhibits before the main events.
Navigating the Park and Its Amenities
For your convenience, the park provides amenities such as a tuck shop and a coffee/tea spot, perfect for a break during your visit. While specific policies on outside food can vary, these onsite options are readily available. Some visitors have noted that peacocks are quite fond of any leftover snacks!
Parking is ample at the bird park, making it easily accessible for those arriving by car. This ensures a hassle-free start to your visit, allowing you to focus on enjoying the diverse avian life and the beautiful surroundings.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit