The Panthera Africa Big Cat Sanctuary, located in Stanford in the Western Cape Overberg region, is a remarkable refuge dedicated to the care and conservation of big cats. Founded by conservationists Cathrine Strydom and Lizaene Cornwall, the sanctuary provides a safe and enriching environment for rescued and retired big cats, including lions, tigers, leopards, and caracals. The sanctuary’s mission is to create awareness about the plight of big cats in captivity and in the wild, promote ethical wildlife practices, and educate the public about the importance of conservation.
At Panthera Africa, the well-being of the animals is paramount. The sanctuary offers spacious enclosures designed to mimic natural habitats, allowing the big cats to express their natural behaviors. The enclosures are enriched with trees, platforms, and toys to stimulate the cats physically and mentally. Unlike some wildlife attractions, Panthera Africa does not allow any breeding, trading, or interaction with the animals, ensuring that the cats live a stress-free and dignified life. This ethical approach highlights the sanctuary's commitment to the highest standards of animal welfare.
Education plays a significant role in Panthera Africa's mission. The sanctuary offers guided tours that provide visitors with valuable insights into the lives and challenges of big cats. During these tours, knowledgeable guides share stories about the individual cats, their rescues, and their personalities, fostering a deeper connection between the visitors and the animals. The tours also emphasize the importance of conservation and the impact of human activities on big cat populations. Through these educational efforts, Panthera Africa aims to inspire visitors to become advocates for wildlife protection.
Panthera Africa is also involved in various conservation initiatives and collaborates with other organizations to protect big cats in the wild. The sanctuary participates in awareness campaigns, research projects, and rescue operations to address the threats faced by big cats, such as habitat loss, poaching, and illegal wildlife trade. By working together with local and international partners, Panthera Africa strives to create a future where big cats can thrive both in captivity and in their natural environments. The sanctuary stands as a beacon of hope and a testament to the positive impact of dedicated conservation efforts.
BOOKINGS ARE ESSENTIAL TO VISIT THE SANCTUARY.
Lagoon View offers self catering accommodation in Hermanus in the Western Cape's Overberg and Whale Coast region. Looking for a quiet self catering getaway with fantastic views. This large stylish home (sleeps 7) overlooks the Hermanus Lagoon and is ideal …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Sea Star Cliff is a luxury lodge providing guest house accommodation in De Kelders, Gansbaai in the Overberg and Whale Coast region of the Western Cape. The luxuriously appointed guesthouse was designed and decorated with luxury in mind to create a... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Whale Cove A104 offers self catering apartment accommodation on the beachfront at De Kelders, Gansbaai in the Overberg and Whale Coast region in the Western Cape. Whale Cove A104 (sleeps 6) is a four-star rated, 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom luxury apartment. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Crayfish Lodge Sea & Country Guest House offers bed and breakfast accommodation in De Kelders, Gansbaai in the Overberg and Whale Coast in the Western Cape. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Pearly Beach house is a spacious self catering home, sleeping up to 12 guests on the Pearly Beach seafront, near Gansbaai, with 180 degree sea views and easy access to rock pools in front of house and two nearby beaches. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Aire Del Mar Guest House provides bed and breakfast accommodation in Gansbaai in the Overberg / Whale Coast region in the Western Cape. Aire del Mar is ideally situated in Kleinbaai (sometimes referred to as Van Dyks Bay) for the viewing of the Great Whi …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Pacem offers visitors self catering accommodation in Hermanus on the Overberg / Whale Coast, Western Cape. Located in the Hermanus suburb of Voelklip it has a magnificent view on the mountain as well as sea views. Pacem is situated in a quiet area... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Bayview 303 offers luxury self catering apartment accommodation in Hermanus Central in the Overberg / Whale Coast region, Western Cape. Our seafront apartment is centrally situated between the swimming beaches and the Hermanus town centre. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Bayview 104 is a spacious self catering apartment situated near the water’s edge in Hermanus, on the Western Cape's Whale Coast and can accommodate 4 guests comfortably and is a stone’s throw away from the water. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Brown Jug provides visitors to Hermanus with self catering accommodation. Centrally situated in sought after Eastcliff, a quiet leafy suburb, is a mere two minute stroll to the shops, restaurants and seafront where you can enjoy the famous whale watching. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.