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Riverbend Crocodile Farm, Southbroom: Meet the Ancient Predators of the KZN South Coast

Writer: Shamoné Du Toit
Shamoné Du Toit
11m
4 min read

Where ancient predators, tiny hatchlings, fine art and fine wine share one extraordinary farm.


You have never experienced ancient predators quite like this. Tucked away on the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast, Riverbend Crocodile Farm in Southbroom is one of the region's most unforgettable days out, and so much more than a place to look at crocodiles.


Nile crocodile resting on a riverbank, similar to the crocodiles at Riverbend Crocodile Farm, Southbroom

Photo: Gianfranco Gori, via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)


A South Coast Story That Began in 1981


The late Corky Kelly established Riverbend in 1981. What began as a bold idea grew into a family-run business and a much-loved tourist attraction on the South Coast. Today it sits on the Old National Road (R61), a short drive from the heart of Southbroom, and you can read more on the farm's own About Us page.


Meeting Freddy and the Crocodile Hatchlings


On our visit we met Freddy, a knowledgeable and passionate team member who cares for the hatchlings in their earliest days. He shared some remarkable numbers: two years ago the farm hatched 648 baby crocodiles in a single day. We also learnt that hatchlings emerge with their teeth already formed, which shows just how well equipped these reptiles are from the very start.


Freddy is also running a long-term study on hatchling behaviour. He told us that the first one or two hatchlings can be handled and even play without biting, but by the third or fourth, they turn around and bite, even while still attached to their umbilical cord. Tiny, feisty and fascinating.


Can You Hold a Baby Crocodile?


Yes, and it is a moment you will not forget. We held one, and it was thrilling, nerve-racking and mesmerising all at once. Their eyes are captivating, and you cannot help thinking that this little creature will one day grow into a massive predator. Riverbend also hosts educational shows where visitors, children included, can hold a baby crocodile under supervision.


While you are there, remember to say hi to Cupcake, the farm's biggest female crocodile.


Crocodile Feeding Demonstrations


Want to see the power of these predators in action? Riverbend hosts feeding demonstrations every Sunday at 3 pm, with extra demonstrations on Wednesdays during the summer season.


Nile crocodile feeding, showing the power of these ancient predators

Photo: Arturo de Frias Marques, via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA)


More Than Crocodiles: Vultures, Snakes and Feral Cats


  • Palm-nut Vulture nest: high in one of the trees is the nest of a striking Palm-nut Vulture, a threatened species in South Africa. It is a lovely reminder of how different species share one space.

  • Snake house: home to 19 species of snakes, with educational snake demonstrations for adults and children.

  • The farm cats: around 60 feral cats roam the farm, and we were told they often rest on the crocodiles without a reaction. Freddy believes the crocodiles tolerate them because the cats help keep the enclosures clean.


Palm-nut Vulture, the species nesting at Riverbend Crocodile Farm

Photo: Hans Hillewaert, via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)


Crocodile Farming, Skins and Meat


Riverbend is also a commercial farm alongside its tourism side, with commercial crocodile production as a second focus. The farm targets about 8,500 hatchlings a year. The young are moved to the company's commercial farm in Pietermaritzburg and raised for roughly 28 months. Around 6,500 are then processed for skin and meat. According to the farm, the skins are shipped to French luxury fashion house Hermès, while the meat is eaten locally in South Africa.


Eat Crocodile at the Riverbend Restaurant


For something different, the restaurant serves crocodile dishes, including crocodile steaks and, for the adventurous, a crocodile tail. It is a unique KZN South Coast dining experience.


The Educational Showroom


The showroom is a treat for curious visitors and children. Inside you will find crocodile skulls, eggs, skins and even a preserved crocodile foetus, along with displays on anatomy and life cycle. An audio-visual presentation explains crocodiles, snakes and daily life on the farm, and is offered in English, Afrikaans, German and isiZulu.


Riverbend Art and Wine Gallery


Another surprise: the farm is home to the Riverbend Art and Wine Gallery, established in 1985. It shows original work by South African artists, including paintings, sculptures and ceramics. The boutique wine cellar stocks wines from more than 65 leading South African estates, and you can book a private wine tasting.


The Gift Shop


This is no ordinary souvenir shop. Browse crocodile-themed keepsakes such as teeth, eggs and small skulls, or treat yourself to a crocodile-skin handbag. There are also gifts, clothing, jewellery and African-inspired crafts, and yes, you can even buy a crocodile steak.


Plan Your Visit to Riverbend Crocodile Farm


  • Address: Old National Road (R61), Southbroom, KwaZulu-Natal

  • Phone: 039 316 6204

  • Feeding show: Sundays at 3 pm (plus Wednesdays in summer)

  • Hatchings: usually January to mid-March

  • Website: crocodilecrazy.co.za


For more South Coast ideas, visit Visit KZN South Coast.


Final Thoughts


Wildlife, art and wine is an unexpected mix, and it is exactly what makes Riverbend such an interesting stop on the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast. Have you ever imagined holding a baby crocodile? Now you know where to go.


Explore more stories at Adventure Lifestyle Magazine.

 
 
 

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