The Whipsnade Zoo in the United Kingdom offers a unique and exciting “Meet the Giraffes” experience for visitors. This 20-minute VIP experience allows participants to get up close and personal with the world’s tallest animals, feeding them their lunch while an expert zookeeper shares fascinating facts about giraffes.
What is the Whipsnade Zoo Giraffe Experience?
The “Meet the Giraffes” experience at Whipsnade Zoo is a 20-minute VIP encounter that allows visitors to feed and interact with the zoo’s giraffe herd. During this experience, participants will have the opportunity to hand-feed the giraffes their lunch, while an expert zookeeper provides insights into the lives and behaviors of these majestic creatures.
Availability and Accessibility
The “Meet the Giraffes” experience is available daily from late April through to October at 12:00 pm. It is accessible for wheelchair users, and a visual story is available to help support the experience. Participants must be 8 years of age or older, and children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by a participating adult. No more than two children per adult are allowed, and pregnant or nursing mothers cannot participate. Participants with learning or visual impairment must be accompanied by a carer, who can enter the VIP area free of charge but will not participate in the experience.
Cost and Discounts
The cost of the “Meet the Giraffes” experience is £54 per person, with ZSL Gold Members, Patrons, and Fellows receiving a 10% discount. Admission to the Zoo is not included in the experience price and must be purchased separately.
Keeper for a Day Experience
For those looking for a more in-depth animal encounter, Whipsnade Zoo also offers a “Keeper for a Day” experience. This full-day experience provides participants with the opportunity to work closely with rhinos, giraffes, and elephants, learning about their care and conservation. The Keeper for a Day experience is available Monday-Friday (except bank holidays) and costs £250 per person. Participants must be over 16 years old and have a reasonable level of fitness, and unfortunately, wheelchair access is not available for this experience. Pregnant and nursing mothers are also unable to take part, and appropriate closed-toe footwear must be worn for the experience.
Other Animal Encounters and Experiences
In addition to the “Meet the Giraffes” and “Keeper for a Day” experiences, Whipsnade Zoo offers a range of other animal encounters and experiences, including “Meet the Elephants,” “Meet the Tigers,” and “Meet the Hippos.” The zoo also offers sleepover experiences, camps, and educational courses for children and teens interested in animals and conservation.
Conclusion
The Whipsnade Zoo Giraffe Experience is a unique and unforgettable opportunity to get up close and personal with these majestic creatures. Whether you choose the “Meet the Giraffes” experience or the more immersive “Keeper for a Day” encounter, you’re sure to leave with a newfound appreciation for the incredible world of giraffes and the important work being done at Whipsnade Zoo to conserve these amazing animals.
References:
– Tripadvisor Review of Whipsnade Zoo
– Whipsnade Zoo Keeper for a Day Experience
– Whipsnade Zoo Meet the Giraffes Accessibility Information
– Whipsnade Zoo Experiences
– Whipsnade Zoo Meet the Giraffes Experience