Lawnwood Snake Sanctuary

Founders Mike and Emily Caithness started Lawnwood Snake Sanctuary as a hobby due to their passion for snakes. People would call from all across the country when they find snakes on their property, and ask for it to be removed. Thats how it all started.

Today, Lawnwood boasts over 200 snakes and has been turned into a commercial venture, offering one hour guided tours to visitors.

The tour is designed to educate people about snakes, dispell irrational fears that people have about snakes. Visitors will also get the chance to touch a giant tame leguaan and see it feed on chicken pieces.

Mike and Emily have a wealth of knowledge about snakes, so that at the end of the tour you would be able to identify different species of snakes, understand the difference between the different types of venom (proteolytic, cytotoxic, neurotoxic and hemotoxic), and what to do if you get bitten by these snakes.

Visitors are encouraged to handle some of the non-venomous snakes, consisting of the constrictor species like the albino burmese python which will wind itself around your neck and arms, which leads to great photo opportunities.

There are different exhibits and a snake pit which houses all but one of the nine species found on the Garden Route, including the very venomous puffadder.

One of the rarities is a very special snake which is a cross between an african rock and burmese python, which has only happened three times in history.

Lawnwood is open Tuesdays to Sundays from 10 am to 4 pm, weather permitting. Entry is R80 for adults and R40 for children.

Directions

GPS Coordinates: S33.95810 E23.47285