LIONSROCK is located in the picturesque Free State, South Africa, neighboring the town of Bethlehem. Guided tours allow visitors to witness the majestic big cats and hear their stories firsthand.

LIONSROCK aims to not only be a sanctuary but stand as a testament to compassion, conservation, and the resilience of these incredible creatures.

LIONSROCK Big Cat Sanctuary, a FOUR PAWS Sanctuary, is home to around 100 big cats rescued from around the world. Here, they are protected and provided with a lifelong habitat appropriate for their species. 

The focus at LIONSROCK is to provide these magnificent animals with a forever home that meets their specific needs. As part of FOUR PAWS’ commitment to wild animals in captivity, they address the situation of big cats in zoos, private captivity, and the entertainment industry. The local team at LIONSROCK works tirelessly to ensure the well-being and welfare of these rescued animals.

LIONSROCK’s mission is not only to provide a safe haven for these majestic creatures but also to raise awareness about their conservation and the importance of ethical tourism. It’s a place where big cats can thrive and live out their days in peace and dignity.

LIONSROCK Big Cat Sanctuary was established by FOUR PAWS, an international animal welfare organization.

In 2006, FOUR PAWS acquired the property that would eventually become LIONSROCK. The location was carefully chosen to provide a spacious and natural environment for rescued big cats from all over the world.

Between 2006 and 2007, extensive research was conducted to understand the needs of big cats and design an appropriate sanctuary that such animals may call their forever home. Then began the obtaining of necessary permits to operate the sanctuary legally.

Significant work was done to transform the property into a safe and suitable habitat for big cats. Enclosures, water sources, shelter, vegetation, security and other facilities were built to meet FOUR PAWS’ high standards.

LIONSROCK provides a permanent home for big cats rescued from various situations. Each one of our beloved big cats have faced great challenges in their past. The sanctuary ensures their well-being and offers them a chance to live out their lives in peace and comfort.

Each enclosure is designed to meet the specific needs of different big cat species (such as lions, tigers, leopards and other big cats). Enrichment activities, proper nutrition, and veterinary care are provided to enhance their quality of life. A team of animal caretakers, volunteers and an on-site veterinarian ensure the monitoring and wellbeing of each Big Cat under the care of LIONSROCK.

LIONSROCK raises awareness about the conservation of big cats by offering various educational programmes which exist in the realm of animal welfare. These programmes are available to school groups of all ages to individuals who are studying towards animal welfare and would like to gain practical exposure.

LIONSROCK is open to the public, with no entry fee at the gate. We offer a unique combination of animal welfare and tourism, offering activities for guests including sanctuary tours and exclusive guided tours for day and over-night visitors who are interested in gaining insight into the daily work of the animal caretaker team.

LIONSROCK Big Cat Sanctuary offers luxurious accommodation with 22 rooms and two cabins designed with you in mind, a bar and an on-site restaurant where each meal has been designed to cater to your every culinary need.

Visitors can learn about the challenges faced by these animals and the importance of ethical tourism.