Butterfly World, the largest free flying park for butterflies in Southern Africa, opened its doors to the public in November 1996. The concept originated in the UK and such enclosed parks can be found in countries throughout the world. Each year these parks are visited by thousands of visitors and now thanks to the initiative taken by two Capetonian women, South Africans have the opportunity to experience nature at its best

STELLENBOSCH WINE ROUTE

The Stellenbosch Wine Route now comprises of more than 110 cellars, of whom most are open to the public, and where some of the finest, award-winning wines can be sampled. Wines of the region are of a very high standard and regularly win International awards. Although the farms have been handed down through generations, recently some foreign investment has seen the area infiltrated by some oversees buyers. As a result a healthy cross pollination has taking place.

Wine tours are a regular for any visitor and here you have a choice of the old world charm or modern large estates where focus is on drawing large numbers. Stellenbosch is wine country, and this must truly be a Mecca for any wine-lover as well as those interested in learning more about the art. Farms are surrounded by the natural beauty of the nature with some of the most spectacular mountains. This again leads to endless possibilities of scenic and site-seeing trips.

EAGLE ENCOUNTER AT SPIER

A visit to the Eagle Encounter at the Spier Wine Estate is a fascinating and never-to-be-forgotten experience. Hank and Tracy Chalmers have been running the Eagle Encounter since it started 4 years ago. Having been brought up by a father who himself was a falconer, Hank has over 30 years experience in working with birds of prey. His wife, Tracy, has been devoted to eagles and other raptors for over 13 years. The Eagle Encounter seeks to rehabilitate birds of prey, including eagles, owls, kestrels, kites and goshawks that have been injured, poisoned, shot or hit by cars. Wherever possible the rehabilitated birds are reintroduced back into the wild. While these big birds are being healed, they are using the Eagle Encounter to educate the public concerning these amazing creatures.

TYGERBERG ZOO

Tygerberg Zoo is Cape Town's only zoo. With 24 hectares of land it is situated roughly 40 minutes from Cape Town central. The Tygerberg Zoo is home to lions, tigers, zebra, cheetah, chimpanzees and marmosets. The types of animals include: 61 mammal species, 160 bird species and 63 reptile species. A visit to the zoo is definitely worth it; with a wide range of animals to view the zoo offers a great day of entertainment. The zoo also specializes in the breeding of rare and endangered species so you will have the opportunity to see animals you would seldom see in the wild. For younger children there is the children's farmyard and there is a shop where you can purchase refreshments.