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Right in the heart of Century City in Cape Town is a 16 hectare wetland and bird sanctuary that is well worth a visit. When the development at Century City began, much of the area was covered in alien vegetation and the wetlands were in disrepair. After quite some work, Intaka Island is now home to many rare birds and exquisite flora, and offers a quiet and scenic escape.
Take a walk around the island on the 2 kilometres of footpath and stop off at one of the nine stations along the way which offer specific insight into the area and the wildlife around you. Grab a map and bird checklist at reception to take note of what you are seeing. Just make sure to stay on the path and not disrupt this beautiful wetland.
There are also field rangers who will take you on a tour of the island and give in-depth information about the plant and animal life. The tours are included in the entrance fee, but rather call ahead to make sure they are available.
Intaka means 'bird' in Xhosa, and there is plenty of birdlife on the island with over 120 species. There are two designated hides which offer great views of the wetlands. Bring your camera along and take the opportunity to photograph some of the birds - hopefully you'll get to spot some of the more rare species.
For a different experience, you can take a ferry ride to the island. The ferry offers great views of Century City and takes you through the canals to Intaka Island. During the school holidays you can also take advantage of the 'hop off hop on' feature. The ride lasts for around 35 minutes and is run from 10h00 to 16h00. If you have a canoe, you can go paddling through the 8 kilometres of canals, just contact the Century City Canoe Club for permission.
Intaka Island is open to visitors from 07h30 to 17h30 in winter and until 19h00 in summer. The entrance fee is R10 for adults and R5 for children and pensioners, and the ferry ride is R30 for adults and R20 for children and pensioners. For more information call 021 552 6889.
