The Butterfly WebSite

Butterfly World, the largest free flying park for butterflies in Southern Africa, opened its doors to the public in November 1996. The concept originated in the UK and such enclosed parks can be found in countries throughout the world. Each year these parks are visited by thousands of visitors and now thanks to the initiative taken by two Capetonian women, South Africans have the opportunity to experience nature at its best.

It was after a visit to butterfly parks in Canada, Singapore and Malaysia, that Matty Pretorius and her daughter Esther van der Westhuizen decided to bring the concept to Cape Town, South Africa. Esther, previously a lecturer in Zoology at the University of the Western Cape, and Matty, a successful business woman, combined their skill, knowledge and expertise to tackle this new eco-tourism venture.

Great care was taken with landscaping the stunning indoor garden, which gives as much pleasure, with all its water features and exotic plants., as the beautiful butterflies flying freely around you. Colourful butterfly-friendly birds complete the lovely tropical garden picture.

The location of Butterfly World on the Route 44 near Klapmuts, just off the N1, is perfect as it lies at the junction of the main Wine Routes of Stellenbosch and Paarl.

There is no time limits on a visit to Butterfly World, and visitors are welcome to take photographs or videos of these beauties. Refreshments and light meals are available from our restaurant, and our craft shop stocks butterfly related goods.

Inside the flight display house, displays depict the life cycle of the butterfly, and if visitors are lucky, they might see a butterfly emerging from its pupa.

The park is open every day of the year except 25 December, and trading hours are 9 to 5, except June, July and August, when the opening hours are 10 to 4.

Entrance fees:
Adults R15 Group fee: R12
Senior citizens R10 Group fee: R9
Children R7.50 Group fee: R6

Registered travel agents and their drivers enter for free, and their groups consist of one to many. They must please mention at ticket sales that they are travel agents and will receive a receipt.

There are no formal guides, but if a request for a guide is made at ticket sales, we will provide a personnel member who can show the group around. Bookings are not essential, but preferable when a large group is visiting, to ensure personal attention.