Crocworld gets a new name as Scottburgh landmark expands into adventure tourism

A KZN South Coast landmark is getting a new name and a major expansion of its outdoor offering after more than 40 years in Scottburgh.

Crocworld Conservation Centre is being relaunched as Crocworld Adventure & Conservation Centre, with cycling and hiking trails, a bike shop, zipline-style activities and expanded dining joining its established wildlife and conservation experiences.

The centre has been part of the KZN South Coast since 1985, the same year its famous Nile crocodile Henry arrived.

“We’re very excited to announce a host of new changes at Crocworld, some of which have already been implemented, with more to come!” says Susan Badat, Manager of Crocworld Adventure & Conservation Centre. “Crocworld has been part of Scottburgh for more than 40 years, and while our commitment to wildlife conservation and education remains at the heart of what we do, we continue to evolve with our community and our visitors.”

Here’s what visitors can expect from the revamped Crocworld.

More than 100km of adventure trails

Walking and cycling are becoming a bigger part of the Crocworld experience through the growing Crocworld Adventure Trails.

The network starts at Crocworld and connects with the broader Renishaw Coastal Precinct and surrounding areas.

More than 100km of trails have been developed and maintained in collaboration with local partners and sporting clubs.

Routes currently available from Crocworld include 5km, 10km, 20km and 40km options, incorporating varied terrain, technical features and coastal and countryside scenery.

“The vision is to position Crocworld as a leading family adventure and conservation park,” says Badat. “This is going to be a space for residents and visitors to connect with nature, to enjoy quality time spent outdoors keeping healthy and having fun, all the while raising funds for the ongoing conservation work being done at Crocworld.”

New bike shop opens at Crocworld

Badger’s Cycling and Sports Centre (CSC), which is developing the trails, has also opened a bike shop at the Crocworld entrance.

It offers bicycle sales, professional servicing, accessories, apparel and advice.

The expanded cycling offering also creates opportunities for group rides, time trials, sporting events and community activities.

Conservation talks and crocodile handling return

Despite the increased focus on outdoor adventure, conservation remains at the centre of Crocworld’s offering.

The centre is reintroducing its “edutaining” conservation talks, with experts sharing information about South African wildlife and natural environments.

Snake talks and demonstrations have also returned, giving visitors an opportunity to learn about local reptiles and their role in the environment.

Visitors can also participate in juvenile crocodile handling for a close-up experience with the reptiles.

Zipline-style adventures added

Visitors looking for something more adrenaline-filled can try Jikaleza Outdoor Adventures, located next to Crocworld.

The attraction includes a treetop obstacle course and zipline-style activities designed for a wide range of ages.

It adds an aerial adventure element to Crocworld’s wildlife, conservation and outdoor activities.

Fish Eagle Café expands its offering

Fish Eagle Café remains part of the Crocworld experience, with weekend buffets, special events and children’s birthday parties among its offerings.

Parents can book children’s parties that include meals and treats, with the option to add day access to Crocworld.

Sunday buffet

The lunch buffet takes place on the last Sunday of the month from 11am to 3pm.

It costs R180 per adult and R100 for children aged four to 12. Children under four can order from the kiddies menu.

Bookings and a deposit are required by Thursday. Takeaways are not permitted.

Saturday breakfast buffet

Breakfast buffets are available on select Saturdays from 9am to 11.30am.

The cost is R150 per adult and R75 for children under 12.

Bookings for the café, buffets and children’s parties can be made via ndlamini@cbl.co.za or by calling 039 815 0169.

Bigger plans for the Scottburgh precinct

Crocworld Adventure & Conservation Centre forms part of the 1,300-hectare Renishaw Coastal Precinct, which includes Renishaw Hills and the newly launched Restilridge Farm Estate.

Future plans for the precinct include a private school, hospital, recreational facilities, shopping centre, hotel and light industrial zone.

According to the information provided, 80% of the land will be preserved as conservation space.

More information about the precinct is available from Renishaw Coastal Precinct.

For Crocworld information, call 039 976 1103 or visit Crocworld Adventure & Conservation Centre. Visitors can also follow Crocworld on Facebook and Instagram.

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