Mitchell Park (officially Mitchell Park Zoo) is one of Durban’s oldest and most historic public parks, situated in the leafy suburb of Morningside. Named after Sir Charles Bullen Hugh Mitchell, it was established in the late 1890s as an ostrich farm before evolving into a popular zoo and botanical garden.
Key Highlights & Attractions
- The Famous Elephants: Historically, Mitchell Park hosted several iconic animals, most notably Nellie the Elephant, who was gifted to the city in 1928 and became famous for playing a mouth organ and collecting coins with her trunk.
- Royal Visits: Queen Elizabeth (then Princess Elizabeth), Princess Margaret, and Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother visited the park during their 1947 royal tour of South Africa.
- Small Animal & Aviary Enclosures: Today, the park no longer houses large mammals like elephants or lions, but features a walk-through aviary, tortoises, small primates, and small mammals.
- Gardens & Tearoom: Known for lush manicured lawns, vibrant flower beds, and ancient trees, it is a favourite spot for family picnics, children’s birthday parties, and relaxed morning coffees at the onsite Blue Zoo Cafe.
