The Animal Sanctuary is a sanctuary for a variety of exotic animals, such as spiders, snakes, monkeys, meerkats, scorpions, many species of birds and much more. All our animals have either been donated by owners, or have been confiscated by local authorities and given into our care. Visitors see over 700 amazing creatures who are now all ambassadors for their species and carry the message: Appreciate, Don’t Keep.

Zoologist, Esther van der Westhuizen and her mom, Matty Pretorius started Butterfly World in November 1996. After purchasing an acre of marsh land, they started planting and building. (in that order) With a tropical garden set up, they imported exotic butterfly pupae from all over the world and soon visitors were streaming in to enjoy the scores of free flying butterflies. Donations of exotic pets followed and Butterfly World became the sanctuary for unwanted and confiscated exotic animals it is today. This family owned business continues to employ local people from the Klapmuts community, and is a trusted centre of education, hosting thousands of school groups every year. Our vision is helping animals & working on environmental issues.