GG Conservation Lion Sanctuary, located in South Africa, offers a unique opportunity for visitors to observe the majestic lions from the closest possible distance while ensuring complete safety. The sanctuary achieves this by placing people in metal and plexiglass cages positioned within the heart of the lion’s pride. Any of the 77 resident lions in the park can freely approach these specially designed “two-legged exhibits.”
Spanning nearly 1,000 hectares in the Harrismith City area, the privately owned sanctuary is dedicated to the love, protection, and preservation of these magnificent lions. The first lions were introduced to the collection in 2002, and the sanctuary was registered as a non-profit environmental organization in 2015. The “people in a cage” attraction has been available to visitors for approximately two years.
The cost for this extraordinary experience is RR 2,000 for one person or RR 3,000 for two, equivalent to approximately $134-197. Participants spend 45 minutes inside the cage, with the proceeds going towards rescuing lions facing challenging situations worldwide. The park itself relies on donations for funding.
Each cage can accommodate up to three people, and the strength of the metal rods and plexiglass is regularly inspected by engineers to ensure safety. Notably, there have been no accidents thus far. Additionally, during the photo sessions, attentive staff members are always nearby.
Visitors enthusiastically praise the encounters, as the lions occasionally approach the cages, trying to interact with the intrigued onlookers. However, the gap between the rods prevents the predators from reaching beyond the cage. This experience also provides enrichment for the lions, allowing them to explore new scents and observe non-threatening guests on their territory, contributing to their well-being in captivity.
