Modderfontein Bird and Sculpture Park: Another Benson & Boris Adventure

Yes, I Know. Another “Not-a-Hike” Walk

Before anyone clutches their hiking poles in despair - relax. I know the last few posts have been suspiciously suburban. Urban, even.

But sit down and hydrate, because the next couple after this will be proper hikes...I think.

It’s December.

There’s free time.

Places are closed.

There’s a deep refusal to rot indoors.

And most importantly, I currently have access to victims willing to accompany me on midweek local discoveries.

You’re welcome.

We do the dirty work so you can decide if it’s up your alley.

Also, for the record, I’ll be here for the remainder of 2025. Lucky you.

Not a Mountain Hike, But Still Worth Leaving the House

This was the second outing for Boris (off-lead king, lead character) and Benson (his delinquent, mildly annoying co-star).

Yet another location I didn’t have on my list was suggested by Basil (Boris's ever surprising person): Modderfontein Bird and Sculpture Park.

Located in Modderfontein, opposite Flamingo Shopping Centre and alongside Flamingo Dam.

When Your Dog Thinks a Construction Site Is Disneyland

The moment we opened the car doors, Boris was magnetically pulled toward a vast expanse of long grass. Naturally, his loyal subjects followed.

He bounded across it like a springbok living his best, most unbothered life.

Benson attempted to follow, but was immediately consumed by the grass. All we saw were ears popping up and down as he tried to locate…anything.

Direction.

Purpose.

Boris.

Just as we were enjoying the chaos, a woman approached and sternly informed us that this was not the park but a construction site, and no, we were absolutely not allowed to be there.

She pointed us toward the actual park.

Fair enough.

We regrouped. Slightly humbled.

Off-Leash Area: Fine for Most Dogs (Not Boris)

The park has an enclosed off-leash dog area, complete with a few obstacles and activities.

For many fluff nuggets, this is probably more than sufficient.

For Bougie Boris, it was acceptable - for about five minutes.

Boris performed tricks like a show pony.

Benson, on the other hand, sniffed every single square millimeter of the area, ignoring Boris’s impressive repertoire completely.

No inspiration.

No admiration.

Just sniffing the dirt.

Eventually, Boris made it very clear to Basil that it was time to move on to greener pastures.

Sculpture Park Section

The sculpture section of the park requires dogs to be on lead.

There’s a dam, ducks doing duck things, and a collection of sculptures that remind you just how creative and resourceful South Africans are.

The pieces are made from recycled materials, and two sculptures are crafted entirely from horseshoes, which is wildly impressive.

It’s calm, pretty, and unexpectedly wholesome.

Picnic Spots & Play Areas

The park offers:

Shaded picnic spots

Kids’ jungle gyms

Clean bathrooms (Basil-approved; I never saw them, but I trust the endorsement)

It’s genuinely a lovely little space for families, small celebrations, or a relaxed weekend outing.

Is This the Place for You?

If you’re looking for a mountain hike where your gangster dog and gangster self can roam off-lead indefinitely - this is not it.

But, if you: have dogs that are happy on or off lead, kids who can behave off lead and want a low-key picnic or

family day out, then Modderfontein Bird and Sculpture Park is a solid choice.

INFO

COST

R 45 per adult

Best For: Families, casual dog walks, picnics, birthday parties

Not Ideal For: Hardcore hikers and off-lead purists...Boris??

We tested it. You’re welcome.