South Africa has long been associated with magnificent wildlife and world-class game reserves.

Few would argue that for the majority of travellers in search of African wildlife South Africa’s iconic Kruger National Park is among the very best places to visit. For a start, it holds a greater range of mammalian species than any other reserve on the continent, and you are guaranteed to see a large selection of the most impressive animals. Few travellers in search of wildlife are likely to think of a bustling city like Johannesburg as the natural place to begin their quest. For many it will be viewed simply as the site of the country’s main airport, from which the wilds of South Africa can subsequently be accessed. Many visitors will not even leave the confines of the terminal before flying off on a connecting flight.

Well...next time you’re passing through, think again. Johannesburg has something truly wild to offer.

Nestling within 81 hectares of leafy northern suburb lies the city Zoo, which dates as far back as 1904. Certainly is a far cry from the vast savannahs that make up the Kruger National Park, but with over 320 species of animal, from right across the globe, and with some highly professional exhibits, it provides visitors of all ages with an unforgettable experience.

And there’s something about this city zoo that makes it rather special, setting it apart from those found in other major cities. Arriving at the main gate you are greeted by an atmospheric vibe that could only be found in Africa. Street vendors and colourful local residents congregate around the entrance, making your visit memorable before you have even stepped foot inside.

Passing through the gates, you are met by fine, rolling parkland, with wide open spaces and an astonishing range of animals, including the most iconic. The intense greenness provides an immediate relief from the urban landscape of the city. It is truly exhilarating to see so many species up close, from lions through to giraffes, elephants, hippos and reptiles both large and small As this is one of Africa’s largest zoos there are also many non-native species represented – among them the continent’s only pair of polar bears, a species which is now rare even in European Zoos. Yes, it may be bizarre seeing polar bears in Africa, but that makes it no less memorable for the true wildlife enthusiast.

Naturally Johannesburg Zoo does its fair share of conservation work, as evidenced by its efforts to protect the southern ground hornbill. But there is one animal that makes an overwhelming impression on every visitor, and that is Phila. This young black rhino had to be removed from the wild after poachers tried on two separate occasions to kill her for her horn, shooting her a total of nine times. After a long recovery she is now in the safe hands of her keepers, and it is hoped that one day she can be paired up with a male in a reserve. Her story is one of indomitable survival and an overwhelming resilience in the face of one of the greatest dangers ever to confront these magnificent African giants.

Your memories of this small slice of the wild tucked into a corner of one of South Africa’s most vibrant cities will be enhanced by the warm friendliness of the staff. The feeling of being made welcome is unlike anything I have experienced at zoos elsewhere.

Caught up in the bustle of downtown Jozi it’s easy to forget that you are in a magnificent country teeming with wildlife and boasting some of the world’s most impressive creatures. A trip to Johannesburg Zoo reminds you that this city really is still wild at heart and the perfect place to start any South African adventure.

Ashley Palmier

Ventura Events
http://www.venturaevents.org.uk/