It’s time to break up the daily school routine and get children engaged in nature with a day trip to Crocworld Conservation Centre on the KZN South Coast! With more than 30 years of experience in conservation education, and set in the stunning coastal setting of Scottburgh, Crocworld offers schools and enriching and affordable school excursions tailored to the students.
Crocworld has earned a reputation as an outdoor classroom that brings nature to life through hands-on experiences and guided tours. Susan Badat, Crocworld Conservation Centre Manager, explains that their tours aim to inspire young minds while fostering a deeper understanding of the natural world.
“At Crocworld, we believe the best lessons are learned outdoors!” she explains. “Our school tours provide a unique opportunity for students to connect with wildlife in a safe, educational, and exciting environment. We are passionate about conservation and education, and there is no better way to share that message than by engaging students directly with the wonders of nature.”
The Benefits of School Outings for Children
She adds that educational school tours are more than just seeing animals up close: “Our tours give children the chance to build confidence and better understand the need for conservation through real-world experiences. Connecting with our charismatic wildlife and hearing our passionate team talk about animal care inspires a generation of future conservation warriors!”
She says some of the benefits of such ‘outdoor classrooms’ include:
· Reinforcing classroom concepts through real-world application.
· Encouraging social interaction and teamwork, as students engage outside the classroom restrictions.
· Boosting confidence and independence, as students navigate new environments and experiences.
· Stimulating curiosity and interest in conservation to encourage the next generation of environmental stewards.
· Promoting physical well-being, as children spend time outdoors, walking and exploring in nature.
7 Highlights of the Crocworld School Tour Experience
1. Expert-Guided Wildlife Tours
Upon arrival, each school group is welcomed by an experienced tour guide who leads the students through Crocworld’s beautiful grounds. During the tour, students are introduced to a variety of animals, from crocodiles and snakes, to farmyard animals and vibrant birdlife. The guides will share fascinating facts about each species, ensuring an educational and engaging experience.
2. Thrilling Crocodile Feeding Demonstrations
One of the highlights of a visit to Crocworld is the exhilarating crocodile feeding demonstrations. Students will watch, enthralled, as the resident crocodiles leap out of the water to grab their meals. Visitors also get to meet (from a safe distance!) Henry – the oldest known Nile crocodile in captivity at an impressive 124 years old – and his longtime companion, Colgate, who is over 90 years old.
3. Interactive Animal Encounters
And ever wondered what it would be like to hold a snake? Well, Crocworld’s famous Monty the Python is always looking for some cuddles! Students will also have the chance to touch and interact with a baby crocodile – all under the careful supervision of Crocworld’s trained staff. This hands-on experience leaves a lasting impression, sparking curiosity and conversation long after the visit.
4. Tailored for All Ages
Crocworld’s tours cater to groups ranging from pre-primary to university level, with tour packages tailored to suit different age groups and educational objectives.
5. A Scenic Coastal Setting
Crocworld is set against a lush coastal forest backdrop teeming with indigenous birdlife. Children will be surrounded by the natural world, with the sound of birdlife and animals making this a unique experience. The wraparound deck from Fish Eagle Café also offers panoramic views where visitors can spot dolphins and migrating whales in the Indian Ocean.
6. Convenient Meal Options
The centre offers five great meal options at R79 per student, including a main meal, chips, fruit, packet crisps, and a fruit juice. Main meals include crumbed chicken burger, crumbed chicken strips, hot dogs, or junior beef burger – all with chips – or the vetkoek with beef mince. Meals can be enjoyed as plated dishes at the Fish Eagle Café or packed for a relaxed picnic experience. All meals are freshly prepared, with orders required 24 hours in advance. At least 20 meals of a single item are required for the set pricing.
7. Great Ranger Guide
The Crocworld school tour experience is now enhanced with the launch of the interactive Ranger Guide booklet, sponsored by WildED in collaboration with Wild Alliance Africa. Schools can purchase this great booklet from the Curio Shop. Designed by Wild Kids Books, it features Crocworld maps, resident Crocworld creatures to spot, a scavenger hunt, fun facts, and more to last long after the Crocworld visit.
2025 School Outing Rates
· R70 per student
· R70 per teacher
· One teacher enters free for every 20 students
· R130 per adult accompanying students (non-staff)
· Optional meal plans at R79 per student
Bookings Now Open
Crocworld Conservation Centre encourages schools to book early, as spaces fill up quickly. To book or for more information about Crocworld, visit www.crocworld.co.za, ‘Crocworld Conservation Centre’ on Facebook or call 039 976 1103. Contact Fish Eagle Café, call 083 658 7073 or email mvanzyl@cbl.co.za.