The Lion Park
The Lion Park is home to a variety of predators. There are 8 different African carnivore species at the Lion Park which include over 80 lions and rare while lions. You can also see Wild Dog, Striped Hyena, Brown Hyena, Cheetah, Side-striped Jackal, Black-striped Jackal and antelope.
Look forward to interacting with some of the animals in the Cub World area Here you can climb up the Giraffe feeding platform and get eye to eye with the tame resident Giraffe. The popular cub interaction allows you to touch the cubs and take photographs with them. Guides are able to provide you with interesting information.
The large herbivore species include Black Wildebeest and Giraffe. They are able to roam freely in a large antelope area. Other herbivore species you might spot include Zebra, Impala, Blesbok, Springbok and Gemsbok. Take a drive through the animal camps and spot Lion, Hyena and Cheetah from the comfort and safety of your own car.
Follow the easy route that will take you through the antelope area towards the Hyena and Cheetah enclosures. You will end your journey at the 4 Lion camps. You are also able to take a guided game drive through the camps.
This is an ideal opportunity to learn more about the African wildlife at Lion Park. A trained guide will take you and your family through the different camps and point out different animals while providing you with interesting facts.
The Johannesburg Zoo
The Johannesburg Zoo was originally a small public park with an odd mix of animals, including a male Lion, female Leopard and a male Baboon. The Zoo has now grown to become one of the most popular attractions in Johannesburg and is ideal for families to enjoy during their holiday in Johannesburg.
The Johannesburg Zoo makes up 54 hectares and is situated in central Parktown. Enjoy a stroll through the zoo under the shady trees while seeing a diverse range of animals. The Johannesburg Zoo's range of animals include Lion, Polar Bear, Tiger, Sable Antelope, Elephant and Bat-eared Fox.
The entire zoo is home to 2 070 animals and about 365 different species. Some of the latest additions to the zoo include an Ape house and Baboon area, a walk-in aviary, a reptile house and new Bear, Tiger and Puma enclosures.
Younger children will enjoy the farmyard and can relax in the entertainment area. Pack a picnic and sit back and relax after spending the morning discovering the zoo. You can also participate in several tours operated at the Johannesburg Zoo.
The informative Day Safari takes you on a 90 minute guided tour on a tractor-trailer, which is ideal for little ones who can't walk very far. The tour needs a group of 15 or more. Alternatively explore the zoo at night on one of their Night Safaris.
You are able to learn more about nocturnal animals such as owls, cats and bats. The tour is available for individuals and groups. The Behind-the-scenes Tour gives you an inside look into the daily life of the Johannesburg Zoo staff. The tour is open to groups of 10 people and more.
The Johannesburg Zoo is open 7 days a week from 3:30am to 5:30pm. Entrance to the zoo however, closes at 4pm.
Croc City Crocodile Farm
Alternatively, head for the Croc City Crocodile Farm. View one of the world's largest predator's up close. You are able to see crocodiles from hatchlings to adults up to 5 metres big. Croc City Crocodile Farm offers you the experience to hold a Crocodile hatchling.
Families can enjoy delicious meals at the tea garden or browse through the curio shop for some souvenirs. Alternatively pack your own picnic. Learn more about crocodiles on the informative guided tours offered at Croc City Crocodile Farm. The farm is situated only 50km (31.06 miles) from the Johannesburg city centre. The farm is home to over 800 crocodiles.
A lecture room features a video presentation about crocodiles while other Crocodile related objects are on display. The display includes Crocodile eggs and skeletons. Browse through crocodile skin and meat products as well as unique local African crafts in the curio shop.
The use of local artists' products is to assist and empower the local community. Croc City Crocodile Farm has facilities for disabled visitors and easy access to all the facilities for wheelchairs. Sight impaired visitors can make use of the brail boards. Croc City Crocodile Farm is open 7 days a week from 9am to 4:30pm.
While on a Johannesburg holiday, should you want to encounter the Big Five animals of Africa, there are nearby safari options. A short flight or a few hour's drive is all that stands between you and an exciting safari adventure.
Contact a Siyabona Africa Consultant for more information on family friendly Johannesburg hotel accommodation and safari options.
