Drakenstein Lion Park, Cape Town’s only true big cat sanctuary, is dedicated to providing rescued lions and other big cats with a lifetime of expert care in an ethical and abuse-free environment. Nestled within 60 acres of scenic natural landscape, this sanctuary offers visitors the rare opportunity to observe majestic big cats in spacious habitats designed to mimic their natural surroundings, making it a must-visit attraction for wildlife lovers.

Founded in 1998, Drakenstein Lion Park rescues big cats from abusive circumstances and provides them with a lifelong home where they are free from abuse and exploitation. Expert care is provided to all of the rescues in our ethical sanctuary. The Park is situated on 60 sprawling acres of fit-for-purpose lion habitat in the scenic Cape Winelands

Drakenstein Lion Park

Open all year. Outdoor attraction. Self-guided walking tour, with staff available to answer any questions and assist guests. 

Contact info: 021 863 3290 / info@lionrescue.org.za

Big cat feeding times: 16:00 on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays

ADVICE FOR VISITORS
Visit on non-feeding days for a more tranquil experience, and on feeding days to see all of the cats up and about around feeding time.

DID YOU KNOW

DLP is South Africa’s longest-operating South African-owned true sanctuary for lions. All of our big cats have been rescued from all over the world! True sanctuaries do not breed, trade, or allow public interaction with their animals, and provide lifetime care to their animals. Each rescue is treated as a sentient individual with care tailored to their unique psychological and physiological well-being.
Captive-born, hand-raised lions such as the ones we rescue cannot be rehabilitated to the wild successfully.