Struben Dam Bird Sanctuary
A serene, free-access urban sanctuary in Menlyn, perfect for birdwatching, peaceful walks, and picnics with your dog.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Quietest for birdwatching
Struben Dam Bird Sanctuary
Best Time
Quietest for birdwatching
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene, free-access urban sanctuary in Menlyn, perfect for birdwatching, peaceful walks, and picnics with your dog.
"An easily accessible, peaceful and safe venue for escaping the urban concrete and tar environment."
Bring Your Own Seat
Limited seating available, so pack a camping chair for a comfy picnic! :camping:
Dog-Friendly Walks
Leash your furry friends and enjoy a lovely stroll around the dam. Remember to pick up after them! :dog:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Birdwatching Paradise
Throughout the sanctuary
Spot a variety of local bird species in their natural habitat. Listen to the symphony of bird calls filling the air.
Peaceful Dam Stroll
Around the dam perimeter
Enjoy a leisurely walk with your dog around the tranquil dam, taking in the natural beauty and fresh air.
Picnic by the Water
Designated picnic spots
Relax with a picnic amidst nature. Bring your own seating for a comfortable and enjoyable outdoor meal.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Tranquility
Free Entry, Essential Gear
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Your Own Seat
Limited seating available, so pack a camping chair for a comfy picnic! :camping:
Dog-Friendly Walks
Leash your furry friends and enjoy a lovely stroll around the dam. Remember to pick up after them! :dog:
Cool date spot near Brooklyn/Rietfontein?
Free Entry Gem
Enjoy this peaceful sanctuary without any entrance fee. A great budget-friendly escape! :moneywithwings:
Birdsong Serenade
Listen to the abundant birdlife and enjoy the tranquil sounds of nature. :bird:
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Your Own Seat
Limited seating available, so pack a camping chair for a comfy picnic! :camping:
Dog-Friendly Walks
Leash your furry friends and enjoy a lovely stroll around the dam. Remember to pick up after them! :dog:
Free Entry Gem
Enjoy this peaceful sanctuary without any entrance fee. A great budget-friendly escape! :moneywithwings:
Birdsong Serenade
Listen to the abundant birdlife and enjoy the tranquil sounds of nature. :bird:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Struben Dam Bird Sanctuary is a well-maintained, free-access urban oasis praised for its tranquility and birdlife. Visitors appreciate it as a peaceful escape for walks and picnics, with dogs being welcome. However, some note limited seating for picnics and occasional litter on the western side.
"Nice little place. More seating in general would be great. So take a camping chair if you wanna do a picnic. Took our doggo with and it's a lovely stroll around the dam. Bathrooms are well kept!"
Aniska Berry
"Lovely outing, great setting, quiet and tranquil, nice to take the doggies for a walk, a bit of litter at the western side of the damp but otherwise nicely maintained and a great place to see some birds."
Jonathan Diederiks
"An easily accessible, peaceful and safe venue for escaping the urban concrete and tar environment, located in the heart of Menlyn. Access is through both Lynnwood and Atterbury Roads into the serene Glenwood suburb via an access-controlled gate, manned by a polite pair of security personnel. Parking space for a limited number of vehicles is available outside the dam gate, with another Tshwane-managed security checkpoint just inside the gate, where you are required to sign in. Entrance is free. The relatively small venue appears to be well-maintained. There are a limited number (seven?) of designated fishing spots, and once all are taken, you may not be allowed to fish. Apparently, huge carp and barbel and kurper have been caught here, while catch-and-release is advocated. Birdlife is plentiful with birdcalls, filling the tranquill air. If you walking your dog, please pick up the deposits! A boon for a quick breakaway if you don't live far out, and a pleasant outting for city-slickers and their kids. Shall definitely visit again!"
Victor Rajkumar
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The sanctuary is accessible via Lynnwood and Atterbury Roads, leading into the Glenwood suburb. It's located in the heart of Menlyn. Access is through an access-controlled gate manned by security personnel.
Limited parking is available outside the dam gate. You'll need to sign in at a Tshwane-managed security checkpoint just inside the gate.
Yes, it's an easily accessible venue located in the heart of Menlyn, making it a convenient escape from the urban environment.
Information on public transport routes is limited, but its central location in Menlyn suggests potential bus routes nearby. It's best to check local transport schedules.
The sanctuary is accessible via Lynnwood Road and Atterbury Road, making it relatively easy to navigate to.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entrance to Struben Dam Bird Sanctuary is free, making it an accessible and budget-friendly destination.
Specific opening hours are not widely published, but it's generally considered a daytime venue. It's best to visit during daylight hours.
No booking is required as the entrance is free. You simply sign in at the security checkpoint upon arrival.
Yes, dogs are welcome at the sanctuary, but they must be kept on a leash, and owners are reminded to pick up after their pets.
Yes, fishing is permitted with a limited number of designated spots. Catch-and-release is advocated, and large fish like carp and barbel have been caught here.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy birdwatching, leisurely walks, picnicking, and fishing. It's a peaceful place for a quiet escape.
Absolutely! Birdlife is plentiful, and the air is filled with birdcalls, making it a delightful spot for bird enthusiasts.
Yes, the bathrooms are reported to be well-kept, contributing to a pleasant visitor experience.
It's described as quiet, tranquil, peaceful, and safe, offering a serene escape from the urban environment.
Crowd levels can vary, but it's generally a peaceful spot. Weekday mornings tend to be quieter than weekend afternoons.
📸 📸 Photography
The dam itself, the surrounding natural foliage, and any birdlife you can spot offer great photographic opportunities. The tranquil setting provides a lovely backdrop.
Yes, the sanctuary is home to plentiful birdlife, making it an excellent location for bird photography. Remember to be respectful and not disturb the birds.
No specific restrictions on photography have been mentioned, but it's always good practice to be mindful of other visitors and the natural environment.
A camera with a good zoom lens would be beneficial for capturing birdlife from a distance. A wide-angle lens can capture the serene landscape.
Definitely. The combination of water, greenery, and diverse bird species makes it a picturesque location for nature photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While it's not an amusement park, the sanctuary provides a gentle introduction to nature for urban kids. The main draw for families is the tranquil environment and the opportunity for a relaxed outdoor activity without any cost. It's a good option for a low-key family day out, especially if you live nearby and want a quick dose of nature.
🚶♀️ Solo Strollers & Nature Lovers
The sanctuary's accessibility and free entry make it a convenient spot for a spontaneous escape. Whether you're looking for a quiet place to reflect, meditate, or simply enjoy a moment of peace away from the city's hustle, Struben Dam offers a welcoming environment. The well-maintained paths are pleasant for a leisurely stroll, and the abundance of birdlife provides constant natural entertainment.
🐶 Dog Owners
The sanctuary provides a much-needed green space for dogs in the urban setting. It's a great place to combine your love for nature with your pet's need for exercise and exploration. The peaceful atmosphere ensures a relaxing experience for both you and your dog, making it a go-to spot for many local pet owners.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Haven for Bird Enthusiasts
Community Tip: Some visitors suggest visiting during quieter times, like weekday mornings, to maximize your chances of undisturbed birdwatching and a more serene experience. The natural setting, away from the city's noise, is a key draw for many who seek a moment of peace and connection with nature.
Picnic Perfect, With a Caveat
Despite the seating limitation, the overall sentiment is positive, with many appreciating the free access and the opportunity to spend quality time outdoors. It's a great spot for a casual outing with friends or family, provided you come prepared with your picnic essentials. The well-maintained grounds add to the pleasant atmosphere for an al fresco dining experience.
Dog-Friendly Urban Escape
It's crucial, however, to adhere to the sanctuary's guidelines: dogs must be kept on a leash at all times, and visitors are strongly reminded to pick up after their pets. This ensures the sanctuary remains clean and enjoyable for everyone, including the wildlife. The presence of other visitors and the natural habitat means responsible pet ownership is key to maintaining this urban oasis.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit