Crocworld adds new adventures while keeping conservation at its heart - IOL

Crocworld Adventure & Conservation Centre is embracing its new identity as a family-focused outdoor destination on the KZN South Coast.

A familiar landmark on the KZN South Coast is entering a new chapter, with Crocworld Conservation Centre in Scottburgh relaunching as Crocworld Adventure & Conservation Centre.

The destination is placing a greater focus on family-friendly outdoor adventure while retaining wildlife conservation and education at the heart of its offering.

Crocworld has been part of the Scottburgh community since 1985, when the famous Henry the Nile crocodile joined the centre.

Now, more than 40 years later, the centre is expanding its offering with adventure trails, cycling, conservation talks, reptile experiences, dining and aerial adventures.

“We’re very excited to announce a host of new changes at Crocworld, some of which have already been implemented, with more to come!” said Susan Badat, manager of Crocworld Adventure & Conservation Centre.

“Crocworld has been part of Scottburgh for more than 40 years, and while our commitment to wildlife conservation and education remains at the heart of what we do, we continue to evolve with our community and our visitors.”

The growing Crocworld Adventure Trails are becoming an increasingly important part of the destination.

The network starts at Crocworld and connects with the broader Renishaw Coastal Precinct and surrounding areas.

More than 100km of trails have been developed and maintained through collaboration with local partners and sporting clubs.

Routes currently available from Crocworld include 5km, 10km, 20km and 40km options, featuring varied terrain, flowing sections, technical features and coastal and countryside scenery.

Badger’s Cycling and Sports Centre (CSC), which is involved in developing the trails, has brought its cycling expertise to the Crocworld entrance.

Visitors who want to explore the trails by bike can also make use of a new on-site bike shop.

Badger’s Cycling and Sports Centre (CSC), which is involved in developing the trails, has brought its cycling expertise to the Crocworld entrance.

The shop offers bicycle sales, professional servicing, accessories, apparel and expert advice.

The cycling and trail offering also creates opportunities for group rides, time trials, sporting events and community activities.

While adventure is becoming a bigger part of the Crocworld experience, conservation remains central to the destination.

The centre is reintroducing its “edutaining” conservation talks, bringing local experts into the park to share their knowledge through accessible and engaging sessions.

The talks aim to give visitors an opportunity to learn directly from people working in the field and gain a better understanding of South Africa’s wildlife and natural environments.

Crocworld has also brought back its snake talks and demonstrations.

The sessions give visitors an opportunity to learn more about South Africa’s reptiles, their role in the environment and some of the myths and misconceptions surrounding them.

Another attraction is juvenile crocodile handling, which allows visitors to have a close-up experience with the reptiles in a controlled setting.

For those looking for more adventure, Jikaleza Outdoor Adventures is located adjacent to the centre.

The attraction features a treetop obstacle course and zipline-style activities, allowing visitors to experience the coastal surroundings from a different perspective.

The experience is designed for a wide age range and adds an active element to Crocworld's wildlife and conservation offering.

Visitors can also enjoy the surroundings at the Fish Eagle Café, where weekend buffet options and special events are being introduced.

Crocworld has also reintroduced bookings for children's birthday parties at the café.

The parties include meals and treats, with the option of day access to the park.

For bookings, contact [email protected] or 039 815 0169.

The Sunday lunch buffet takes place on the last Sunday of each month.

The Saturday breakfast buffet takes place on selected Saturdays.

Contact 039 815 0169 for more information.