Tenikwa Wildlife Rehabilitation & Awareness Centre

Tenikwa Wildlife Awareness Centre is a registered non-profit organisation situated in The Crags, just outside Plettenberg Bay on South Africa's scenic Garden Route. Located on a magnificent 46-hectare property of pristine indigenous Tsitsikamma forest and Cape Floral Fynbos, Tenikwa is dedicated to the rehabilitation, rescue, and release of injured and abandoned wildlife, with visitor fees funding this essential conservation work.

Features & Accommodation

The centre provides unique, nature-infused accommodation options, including family suites and popular Lion Cabins, where guests can enjoy the distinct experience of hearing the lions rumble and roar at night. Facilities include a Wellness Day Spa offering various relaxing treatments, two swimming pools, and access to private protected forest.

Things to Do & Experiences

Tenikwa offers various conservation-based experiences designed to educate and inspire support for African wildlife:

• Wild Cat Experiences: Guided tours focus on South Africa's indigenous felines, including cheetahs, leopards, lions, servals, and caracals. These tours allow close-range viewing and photography opportunities while guides provide educational insight into each species.
  
• Wildlife Rehabilitation Tour: Guests can gain insight into the centre's functioning wildlife hospital, learning about the rescue, treatment, and eventual release of various animals, which can include penguins, storks, and small mammals.
• Guided Forest Walks: Explore the dense indigenous Tsitsikamma forest on guided walks along ancient paths, offering opportunities to spot local fauna and flora, such as the elusive Knysna Loerie.
  
• Special Encounters: The centre often runs specialized programs like "Cats in Conservation" days or early morning/late afternoon walks.

Nearby Attractions

Tenikwa's location in The Crags makes it an ideal base for exploring the area's rich eco-tourism offerings, many of which are just minutes away:

• Animal Sanctuaries: The area is home to several other acclaimed sanctuaries, including Monkeyland Primate Sanctuary, Birds of Eden (the world's largest free-flight aviary), and Jukani Wildlife Sanctuary. The Knysna Elephant Park is also nearby.
  
• Adventure: Thrill-seekers can visit the nearby Bloukrans Bridge, home to the world's highest commercial bungy jump, or try river adventures with AfriCanyon.
  
• Nature Reserves & Beaches: For coastal and wilderness exploration, the Robberg Nature Reserve offers incredible hiking, historical caves, and views of seal colonies. The beautiful beaches of Keurboomstrand and the vast wilderness of the Garden Route National Park are also easily accessible.