The Montecasino Bird Gardens are the only bird park of its kind in Africa and Jo’burg’s best kept secret. Often referred to as the Montecasino World of Birds, this is a wonderful paradise to get lost in for the entire day – fit for the whole family.
It is home to over 1 000 birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians and other small wonders. You can meander along charming walkways within stunning gardens and marvel at a variety of creatures from around the globe.
There is a spectacular walk-through Aviary, where you’ll find over 60 species of birds including Scarlet Ibises, Royal Starlings and Nicobar Pigeons. Reptiles and small mammals wander around freely.
A great hit with visitors to the Montecasino Bird Gardens is the Lorikeet Aviary, where visitors can feed the magnificent Rainbow Lorikeets – just don’t forget to purchase some Lorikeet nectar at the ticket office.
The Parrot Gallery has several beautiful Macaws and Cockatoos that roam freely. Visitors can also see some rare frogs, or if creepy-crawlies are more your thing, then you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the collection of scorpions and spiders.
For the more daring, there are some of Southern Africa’s most venomous snakes, including the Puff Adder and the Black Mamba, as well as a 6 metre Reticulated Python, which is the longest snake in the world!
The Montecasino Bird Gardens also has one of the largest and most diverse private collections of South African Cycads in the world, with over 750 plants from 37 different species.
The Flight of Fantasy bird show is always a huge hit, where colourful and talented show birds mesmerize audiences with amazing displays of free, unrestrained flight.
Shows last for approximately 40 minutes, and visitors have the opportunity to purchase a fun photograph with one of the star birds of prey.
Shows are held at 11h00 and 15h00 during weekdays, and 11h00, 13h00, and 15h00 during weekends and public holidays.
The delightful “Cafe Flamingo” will cater to your hunger pangs and quench your thirst. Cafe Flamingo also caters for children’s parties, and can be contacted at 011 510 7890.
There is so much to see in this magnificent Bird Garden; go early so you can take your time exploring this wonderland. Open 8h30 to 17h00 daily. Telephone: +27 11 511 1864
Corner of William Nicol Drive and Montecasino Boulevard, Fourways, Sandton, Johannesburg
More info on the Johannesburg area |