Frequently Asked Questions
...About the animals
1.
Can I bring an injured wild bird or animal to African Dawn?
We try our best to accept all animals that require care, whether they are injured or found abandoned by their parents. There are some animals we cannot accept if they pose a risk to the existing animals here. If you find an injured or abandoned wild animal please call us before attempting to move the animal or bringing it to African Dawn and we will be able to advise the best action.
Tel: +27 (0)42 2860 710
2.
Can I bring my pet bird or animal to African Dawn if am no longer able to care for it?
Many of the animals at African Dawn are donated ex-pets that could no longer be cared for. Please call us to discuss donating your pet to African Dawn. Please do not bring your pet to African Dawn without calling in advance as we may not have the space to accommodate some animals.
Tel: +27 (0)42 2860 710
3.
If I donate my pet to African Dawn would I be able to take it back after a period of time?
When we accept pets that are donated to us it is a lifelong commitment we make. Animals donated to us will not be released back to their previous owners.
4.
Do you sell any of the birds or animals at African Dawn?
None of the birds or animals at African Dawn are for sale.
5.
Can I touch any of the animals?
We have a no-touch policy with all of our animals, this is for both their safety and yours. Some of our animals may seem friendly, especially the birds, but they will bite! We do not take responsibility if they bite you.
6.
Can I feed any of the animals?
All of our animals are fed diets specifically designed for their needs. We therefore don't allow visitors to feed the animals. We do however sell cups of corn for just R5 to feed the chickens, peacocks and guinea fowl which roam free around the park.
...About the sanctuary
1.
Can I enter any of the bird aviaries or enclosures?
Only staff members and trained volunteers are allowed to enter enclosures. Some of the animals may be dangerous or require extra care. Visitors are not allowed to enter any enclosures for the safety of the animals and you.
2.
Are school group visits allowed?
Absolutely! We welcome school groups to visit so they can learn about the animals at African Dawn. Please give us a call to let us know when you might be visiting and how many children are coming.
Tel: +27 (0)42 2860 710
3.
Do you provide guided tours?
Visitors are welcome to walk themselves around the sanctuary. We're unable to provide guided tours as our staff are very busy tending to the animals. There are signs with information on each enclosure and we are happy to answer any questions you may have.
4.
Do you have a restaurant/cafe?
We have a small kitchen that provides light lunches such as toasted sandwiches. We also sell cold drinks, tea and coffee, alcoholic beverages and ice-creams. Food is served between 10am - 2pm.
5.
Can we have a braai or picnic at the sanctuary?
Yes! Feel free to bring your own food for a braai or picnic. We have braai pits in the park but you will need to bring your own coals and grill. Please take care to clean up after yourselves when you leave.
6.
Is the Sanctuary wheelchair accessible?
African Dawn is set on the hillside of a valley and so may prove difficult to access for wheelchair users. We do not charge an entrance fee for wheelchair users.
7.
What are your opening times?
We are open 9am - 5pm, Monday - Sunday.
8.
How much does it cost to enter?
Adults: R80
Ages 6-16: R40
Ages 3-5: R15
Younger than 3: Free