Explore an island of rich wildlife in Century City

Intaka Island has 7 habitats with 120 bird species + 212 indigenous plants

Last updated: Tuesday, 25 January 2022

Intaka (which means bird in IsiXhosa) Island is a family-friendly nature reserve in Century City. It has 7 natural habitats and is rich with life: there are 120 bird species living in the park and 212 indigenous plants. Walk a 2-kilometre nature trail or take a  boat trip or guided tours – it’s a captivating nature experience.

Sit in the shade and enjoy the green at Intaka Island. Image: Katleho Mohale

WATCH BIRDS IN THIS SANCTUARY

When the development of Century City began in 1996, the area was covered by alien vegetation and degraded wetlands, according to Intaka Island. A large number of water birds used these wetlands and flooded vegetation as a breeding site. Intaka Island was created to conserve the rare type of wetland and fynbos habitat there and to also provide a natural sanctuary for birds. 

Small islands have been constructed to provide sanctuary for the birds. Image: @funmammasa

Now it is home to over 120 species of birds. Two designated bird hides have been constructed at key areas to facilitate chances of spotting the more elusive birds, as well as the notoriously camera shy water-mongoose.

Say hi to the African Darter a.k.a the Snakebird. Image: @nature.calling.me

LEARN WHILE EXPLORING THE AREA

It’s a great experiential learning space for children and adults. There are activity sheets to help children find and identify the wildlife they see – it’s like a treasure hunt with an educational twist. There are self-guided trails but you can also book a guided group tour or join a boat tour to see more of the beautiful wildlife.

This is a nature adventure you and your children can enjoy. Image: @funmammasa

HIRE THE ECO-CENTRE FOR EVENTS

The Intaka Island Eco-Centre can be hired for all sorts of events from workshops, training sessions, product launches and exhibitions to picnics, birthday parties and limited team-building events. Aside from meeting enviro-educational needs, the centre shows the best of sustainable living through how it uses energy and natural resources. 

The centre is a lovely venue for events. Image: Katleho Mohale

The Eco-Centre is powered by solar and wind energy, plus it harvests grey water from the basins, using it to flush toilets. It’s a great way to teach children why we look after our environment.

OPENING HOURS & CONTACT DETAILS

Intaka Island is open: Monday to Sundays, 8am to 7pm

Find it: Grand Central Precinct | 2 Park Ln | Century City | Cape Town

Price range: R26 for Adults, R16 for children (under 12) and R16 for pensioners

Book a boat trip: Call 021 552 6889 or email melissa@intaka.co.za. R80 for adults and R70 for children and pensioners

Contact Intaka on: 021 552 6889, info@intaka.co.za, @intakaisland, www.intaka.co.za  

Take a walk and discover all kinds of birds. Image: Katleho Mohale

HOW TO GET TO INTAKA ISLAND

Follow N1 towards Paarl

Take exit 10 for Sable Road/Merge onto Sable Road

Turn right onto Century Blvd

At the roundabout, take the second exit onto Century Way

Turn left onto Park Lane, you have arrived at Intaka Island

By Katleho Mohale

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FIND MORE THINGS TO DO OUTDOORS

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There are so many free and cheap things to do with your kids here

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