The South Lakes Safari Zoo in Cumbria, UK, offers a unique and captivating Giraffe Encounter experience that allows visitors to get up close and personal with these majestic creatures. This immersive experience not only provides the opportunity to feed the giraffes but also offers a glimpse into their daily lives and the conservation efforts surrounding the critically endangered Kordofan giraffe.
Giraffe Encounter: Feeding the Giants
The highlight of the South Lakes Safari Zoo experience is the Giraffe Encounter, where visitors can participate in the daily public feeding sessions at 12 pm. During these sessions, knowledgeable keepers share insights about the giraffes, their behavior, and the importance of conservation efforts. Visitors are given the chance to hand-feed the giraffes, creating a truly memorable and interactive experience.
Exploring the “Africa” Enclosure
As part of the Giraffe Encounter, visitors are invited to explore the “Africa” enclosure, where the giraffes reside. This immersive experience allows guests to witness the giraffes in their natural habitat, observing their daily routines, such as eating, sleeping, and even “pooping.” The keepers provide valuable information about the giraffes’ behaviors and adaptations, further enhancing the educational aspect of the visit.
Accessibility and Visitor Amenities
The South Lakes Safari Zoo is committed to ensuring a comfortable and accessible experience for all visitors. The zoo is wheelchair-friendly, with some newly added gravel pathways having alternative tarmac routes for easy navigation. Additionally, the zoo has a strict no-smoking policy, including e-cigarettes, ensuring a clean and enjoyable environment for all guests.
Animal Experiences Beyond Giraffes
While the Giraffe Encounter is the main attraction, the South Lakes Safari Zoo offers a range of other animal experiences for visitors to explore. These include hand-feeding big cats, meeting red pandas and sloths, and encountering rhinos. These experiences can be booked in advance and often include entry to the park for the day, providing a comprehensive and immersive zoo experience.
Conservation Efforts
The South Lakes Safari Zoo is committed to conservation efforts and works with a range of organizations to protect endangered species, including the Kordofan giraffe. The zoo’s partnership with the Bonamanzi Ranger and K9 Unit in South Africa, established to combat rhino poaching, is a testament to its dedication to wildlife preservation.
Customer Reviews and Feedback
Customer reviews of the Giraffe Encounter experience at the South Lakes Safari Zoo are overwhelmingly positive, with visitors praising the knowledgeable keepers, the opportunity to feed the giraffes, and the overall enjoyment of the experience. However, some reviewers have noted that the experience can be slightly overpriced compared to other feeding opportunities at the zoo.
In conclusion, the South Lakes Safari Zoo Giraffe Encounter offers a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors. From the opportunity to hand-feed the critically endangered Kordofan giraffes to the educational insights provided by the knowledgeable keepers, this encounter is a must-visit for any zoo enthusiast. With a commitment to conservation and a range of other animal experiences, the South Lakes Safari Zoo provides a comprehensive and immersive day out for the whole family.