Lawnwood Snake Sanctuary

Description

Lawnwood Snake Sanctuary is a fascinating snake park situated in The Crags, just 18km from Plettenberg Bay, in the Western Cape province of South Africa. The sanctuary was founded by Mike and Emily Caithness as a hobby which began when they started removing snakes from people’s properties around the country. Today, the park boasts over 200 snakes and reptiles, and has become a commercial venue and popular tourist attraction along the Garden Route.

The snake park consists of several different outdoor exhibits, a large dome housing South African and exotic snakes, and an indigenous snake pit which houses all but one of the nine species found along the Garden Route, including the very poisonous puff adder. In addition to the snakes, there are also enclosures housing monitor lizards and Nile crocodiles. One of the rarities visitors can spot is a cross between an African Rock and Burmese python which has only happened 3 times in history.

Visitors can enjoy hourly guided tours where they will learn about the snakes, get a rare opportunity to touch a giant leguaan and watch it being fed, as well learn about what to do when encountering dangerous snakes in the wild. Facilities include a curio shop, tea room, kiddies play area, and forest trails.