Eleanor Douglas-Meyers
I recently paid another visit to SANCCOB in Gqeberha – not my first and not my last. There’s something about this place that sticks with you: the smell of fish, the hum of hard work, the sight of tiny tuxedoed birds being given a second chance at life.
If you’ve never been, SANCCOB is so much more than just a penguin rescue centre. It’s a lifeline for thousands of seabirds — and a wake-up call for us humans. Did you know that at the current rate, African penguins could be extinct in the wild by 2035? That’s terrifying. But SANCCOB is doing something about it.
And here’s the good news: you can win a family ticket pack to experience it for yourself!
Go over to our social media. Let’s get more people supporting this incredible cause
Here are 5 reasons to visit:
1. Meet a Real-Life Superhero: The African Penguin
SANCCOB is on the frontlines of saving the critically endangered African penguin. At current rates, they could be extinct in the wild by 2035 — but SANCCOB is working hard to change that. You can get up close (but respectfully distant) to these iconic birds during a tour.
2. Rescue & Rehab in Action
This isn’t just a centre — it’s a 24/7 rescue facility for injured and oil-slicked seabirds. Every year, over 2,500 birds are treated and rehabilitated. If you’re lucky, you might even witness a penguin release!
3. Hands-On Learning for All Ages
Whether you’re bringing curious kids or you’re an adult with a heart for conservation, SANCCOB offers presentations, educational programmes, and behind-the-scenes tours that bring marine biology to life.
4. Volunteer, Intern, or Just Get Involved
From international internships to local volunteering and penguin adoptions, there are so many ways to support this incredible work. I even adopted a penguin in honour of my visit (highly recommend it — it’s the cutest thing you’ll ever do for the planet).
5. Your Visit Helps Save Lives
SANCCOB runs on support from people like you — every tour, donation, wishlist item, or MySchool card swipe makes a difference to seabird survival.
Ready to plan your visit or adopt your own tuxedoed seabird? Head to @sanccob_southafrica or visit their Gqeberha centre and see conservation in action.
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