#travel#shuttles#tourism#bookings#togetherwecan
1 / 10

Hartbeespoort Snake and Animal Park

4.4
·6k reviews·Hartbeespoort, South Africa

Discover a world of reptiles and big cats at Hartbeespoort Snake and Animal Park, offering thrilling shows and scenic dam cruises.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdLow
Loading map...
#travel#shuttles#tourism#bookings#togetherwecan

Hartbeespoort Snake and Animal Park

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover a world of reptiles and big cats at Hartbeespoort Snake and Animal Park, offering thrilling shows and scenic dam cruises.

4.4
(6k reviews)

"Breathtaking views and a peaceful, natural charm with an excellent selection of animals."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Check Show Schedules

Don't miss the snake shows! They offer fascinating facts and even petting opportunities.

👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended

You'll be doing a lot of walking to see all the animals and attractions.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Reptile Kingdom

Reptile Kingdom

Reptile enclosures

Marvel at an impressive collection of snakes from around the globe, including the Inland Taipan.

Majestic Big Cats

Majestic Big Cats

Big cat enclosures

Witness the power of lions, tigers, jaguars, and leopards – a true highlight for many visitors.

Dam Cruises

Dam Cruises

Hartbeespoort Dam adjacent to the park

Enjoy scenic boat rides on the dam, offering a different perspective of the area.

Interactive Animal Shows

Interactive Animal Shows

Show arena

Engage with knowledgeable handlers and get up close with snakes and other fascinating creatures.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for the Best Experience

To avoid crowds and ensure you catch the most engaging animal shows, plan your visit for weekdays. Weekends can get busy, especially with school groups. Arriving early also gives you more time to explore before peak hours.

Beyond the Snakes: What to Expect

While known for its reptiles, the park also features big cats and offers boat rides. Check the schedule for animal shows and feeding times to maximize your visit. Consider combining your trip with other nearby attractions.

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Crowd
Low
When
Weekends, after lunch
Why
Catch afternoon shows
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Hartbeespoort plug #fyp #hartbeespoort #northwest #local #aaliyaadam
@aaliyaadam
100.4K likes • 2M views

🎯 Check Show Schedules

Don't miss the snake shows! They offer fascinating facts and even petting opportunities. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended

You'll be doing a lot of walking to see all the animals and attractions. TikTok

We recently visited the Hartbeespoort Snake and Animal Park — and what surprised me most was how fascinated the girls were by the snakes, far more than the other animals. And the bonus was they were very active! The park has an impressive collection of snakes from all over the world. We spotted the Inland Taipan, known as the most venomous snake on the planet — its venom is so potent it can kill ...
liebenberg_twins
93 likes • 760 views
Exploring the snake kingdom at the Hartbeespoort Dam Snake And Animal Park- Zoogang. Our Foundation Phase learners acquired a lot of knowledge and created exciting memories.🐍 CONTACT US: 📞+27 (0)11 886 0062 - +27 (0) 73 212 7905 💻 https://enkoeducation.com/agps/ 📧 info@amazingraceschool.co.za 🏫 359 Pretoria Avenue, Ferndale, Randburg
amazinggraceprivateschool
57 likes • 1.7K views

🚤 Boat Ride Value

The park's boat cruises are a more affordable option than independent bookings. Reddit

📸 Capture the Wildlife

Bring your camera for amazing wildlife photography opportunities. Instagram

Hartbeespoort Dam Snake and Animal Park, so underrated! #wildlifephotography #hartbeespoortdam
dat.ash.though
0 likes • 345 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Check Show Schedules

Don't miss the snake shows! They offer fascinating facts and even petting opportunities. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended

You'll be doing a lot of walking to see all the animals and attractions. TikTok

🚤 Boat Ride Value

The park's boat cruises are a more affordable option than independent bookings. Reddit

📸 Capture the Wildlife

Bring your camera for amazing wildlife photography opportunities. Instagram

🎒 Pack Snacks & Water

While there's a kiosk, bringing your own can save money and time. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.4
(6k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Hartbeespoort Snake and Animal Park for its impressive collection of reptiles and majestic big cats, noting the educational value of the animal shows. While the park is generally well-maintained and offers enjoyable boat cruises, some reviewers suggest improvements for the big cat enclosures and find the on-site dining options to be average.

"What a wonderful experience! Every enclosure was clean, beautifully decorated and had plenty of fresh food for every animal. We were thoroughly impressed with every aspect this Zoo had to offer."

Chantelle Kelly Barnard

"The place was truly breathtaking. It offered stunning views that felt like a painting come to life, and the presence of animals added a peaceful, natural charm. It was the kind of place that makes you slow down, breathe deeply, and appreciate the beauty of the world."

Xolile Nokwanda

"An excellent selection of animals with lots of fun facts about each animal on posters next to their habitats.

Interesting selection of reptiles.

The big cats, namely, Lion, Tiger, Jaguar, and Leopard were definitely the star of the shows.

They do offer +-25 minute cruises that are a lot cheaper (R140pp for adults) than booking independently.

The seal unfortunately passed away recently, but they do offer shows where they come around with snakes and provide interesting information about them - we even got to pet a baby Anaconda."

Phillip Dashkevich

What People Like

Impressive reptile collection
Majestic big cats
Educational animal shows

What People Dislike

Average food options
Desire for larger cat enclosures

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The park is located in Hartbeespoort, North West. It's accessible by car, and many visitors combine it with other attractions in the area like the Lion & Safari Park or the Aerial Cableway. TikTokInstagram

Yes, there is parking available for visitors. It's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a good spot. Instagram

Public transport options might be limited and time-consuming. Driving is the most convenient way to reach the Hartbeespoort Snake and Animal Park. TikTok

From Johannesburg, you'll typically take the N1 North towards Pretoria, then the N4 West towards Rustenburg, and finally follow signs for Hartbeespoort. Instagram

Absolutely! Many visitors pair their trip with the Lion & Safari Park, the Aerial Cableway, or a boat cruise on the dam. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The park is generally open daily, but it's always best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date opening hours, especially for specific show times. Instagram

Entrance fees vary, and it's recommended to check the park's official channels for current pricing. There might be different rates for adults and children. Reddit

While some attractions offer online booking, it's advisable to check if the Hartbeespoort Snake and Animal Park has an online ticketing system. Purchasing on arrival is also an option. Instagram

Yes, the park often caters to school trips and group visits, so inquire directly about group rates and packages. Instagram

The entrance fee typically covers access to the animal exhibits. Special activities like boat rides or certain shows might incur additional costs. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can see a wide variety of animals, including an impressive collection of snakes, big cats like lions and tigers, and other reptiles. Instagram+1

Yes, the park hosts animal shows, including snake demonstrations where you can learn interesting facts and even pet a baby Anaconda. Reddit

Absolutely! Children often find the snakes fascinating, and the park provides an educational and exciting experience for young learners. Instagram+1

Yes, photography is encouraged! It's a great spot for wildlife photography, so bring your camera to capture the animals. Instagram

A relaxed visit can last around 90 minutes to a few hours, depending on how much time you spend at each exhibit and if you opt for activities like boat rides. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is a restaurant and a kiosk on-site offering food and refreshments. However, reviews suggest they are average. Reddit

While not explicitly stated, it's generally a good idea to check the park's policy on outside food. Packing snacks and water is often a good strategy. Instagram

The restaurant and kiosk typically offer standard park fare, suitable for a casual meal during your visit. Reddit

Information on dedicated picnic areas isn't readily available, but you might be able to find suitable spots. It's best to inquire upon arrival. Instagram

Reviews suggest the food options are average, so pricing is likely comparable to other tourist attractions. Bringing your own snacks can be a budget-friendly alternative. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The reptile enclosures and big cat habitats offer fantastic opportunities for close-up shots. The dam area is also scenic. Instagram

Professional camera use is usually permitted, but drone usage is often restricted in animal parks for the safety and well-being of the animals. Check park regulations. Instagram

Dedicated photography tours are not commonly advertised, but the park's layout and exhibits are very photogenic. Instagram

Lighting can vary depending on the time of day and the enclosure. Mornings often provide softer light. Instagram

It's generally advisable to avoid using flash photography, especially with animals, as it can startle or disturb them. Always be mindful of the animals' comfort. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Hartbeespoort Snake and Animal Park is a fantastic outing for families. Kids are often captivated by the snakes and other reptiles, making it an educational and exciting experience. The interactive animal shows, where they can learn about and even touch some of the animals, are a huge hit. InstagramReddit+1

While the park offers a lot to see, remember that it can get busy, especially on weekends. Consider arriving early to avoid the biggest crowds and ensure your children have ample space to explore. Packing snacks and water is also a good idea, as the on-site food options are described as average. InstagramReddit

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, the Hartbeespoort Snake and Animal Park offers good value. The entrance fee is considered reasonable for the variety of animals and shows available. Reddit Opting for the park's own boat cruises is also a more affordable way to enjoy the dam compared to external operators. Reddit

To further save money, consider packing your own snacks and drinks. While there are food options on-site, they are described as average, and bringing your own can significantly reduce your expenses. Planning your visit for weekdays can also mean fewer crowds and a more relaxed experience without additional cost. InstagramReddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

The Hartbeespoort Snake and Animal Park is a dream destination for photographers. The diverse range of animals, from slithering snakes to powerful big cats, provides endless opportunities for stunning shots. The enclosures, while sometimes a point of discussion for animal welfare, are often set against scenic backdrops, adding to the photographic appeal. InstagramReddit

Focus on capturing the intricate details of the reptiles or the raw power of the big cats. The interactive shows can also yield dynamic photos of handlers and animals. Remember to be mindful of lighting conditions and avoid flash photography to ensure the well-being of the animals while getting the best possible shots. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Reptile Collection

The Hartbeespoort Snake and Animal Park is renowned for its extensive collection of reptiles, making it a must-visit for enthusiasts. Visitors can expect to see a diverse range of snakes from various regions, including some of the world's most venomous species like the Inland Taipan. The informative posters next to each enclosure provide fascinating facts about the animals, enhancing the educational aspect of the visit. InstagramReddit

Beyond snakes, the park also houses other reptiles, offering a comprehensive look at these often-misunderstood creatures. The interactive shows, where handlers bring out snakes for demonstrations, are a particular highlight. These sessions not only allow for closer viewing but also provide opportunities to learn about snake behavior and conservation, with some visitors even getting to pet a baby Anaconda. Reddit

While the reptile collection is a major draw, it's important to note that the park's offerings extend beyond just snakes. The overall experience is designed to be engaging and educational for all ages, encouraging a deeper appreciation for the natural world. Instagram

The Big Cats and Other Mammals

While the name emphasizes snakes, the Hartbeespoort Snake and Animal Park also boasts an impressive lineup of big cats. Visitors often rave about seeing lions, tigers, jaguars, and leopards, with the roar of the lion being a particularly memorable experience for many. These majestic animals are a significant attraction, drawing crowds who are eager to witness their power and beauty up close. InstagramReddit

Although the park's primary focus might be reptiles, the presence of these large mammals adds significant value to the visitor experience. The enclosures are designed to provide a glimpse into the lives of these magnificent creatures, though some visitors express a desire for larger habitats for the cats. Nevertheless, the opportunity to see such a variety of powerful predators in one location is a key reason for many to visit. Reddit

Beyond the big cats, the park may feature other animals, contributing to a diverse zoological experience. The overall condition of the animals and the maintenance of their enclosures are frequently praised, indicating a commitment to animal welfare. Reddit

Activities on the Dam

Complementing its animal exhibits, the Hartbeespoort Snake and Animal Park offers engaging activities on the adjacent Hartbeespoort Dam. Visitors can opt for scenic boat rides, which provide a refreshing perspective of the surrounding landscape and the dam itself. These cruises are often highlighted as a pleasant addition to the park visit, offering a chance to relax and enjoy the water. InstagramReddit

The park offers its own boat cruises, which are noted to be a more economical option compared to booking independently. These approximately 25-minute rides allow visitors to experience the beauty of the dam without a significant time commitment. It's a great way to break up the day and enjoy a different kind of adventure. Reddit

It's worth noting that the dam's condition can sometimes affect boat rides. At certain times, the presence of water hyacinths might make farm and boat rides impossible. However, when accessible, the dam activities are a popular feature for families and individuals alike. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2