The Dallas Zoo African Savanna is a captivating exhibit that transports visitors to the heart of Africa. Located within the larger Wilds of Africa area, this immersive experience showcases iconic African wildlife such as elephants, giraffes, and lions in naturalistic habitats. With interactive experiences like giraffe feedings and keeper chats, the African Savanna offers an educational and thrilling adventure for visitors of all ages. Open year-round, this exhibit is a cornerstone of the Dallas Zoo’s commitment to conservation and education.

What Animals Can You See in the Dallas Zoo African Savanna?

The Dallas Zoo African Savanna is home to a diverse array of African wildlife, carefully curated to represent the ecosystem of the African plains. Visitors can expect to encounter:

• Reticulated Giraffes
• African Elephants
• Lions
• Hippos
• Various bird species in the aviary

These animals are housed in spacious, naturalistic habitats designed to mimic their native environments. The exhibit’s layout allows visitors to observe these magnificent creatures from multiple vantage points, including elevated platforms and underwater viewing areas for the hippos.

How Can You Interact with Animals in the African Savanna?

The Dallas Zoo offers several interactive experiences within the African Savanna exhibit:

1. Giraffe Feeding: At the Diane and Hal Brierley Giraffe Ridge, visitors can feed giraffes from a raised platform. This up-close encounter allows guests to appreciate the gentle nature and impressive height of these magnificent creatures.

2. Keeper Chats: Throughout the day, zoologists conduct informative talks near various animal habitats. These sessions provide insights into the animals’ behaviors, diets, and conservation efforts.

3. Birds Landing Aviary: This interactive space allows visitors to feed and observe various African bird species in a controlled environment.

4. Wild Encounters Stage: Regular animal presentations showcase different species and educate visitors about wildlife conservation.

Experience	Cost	Duration
Giraffe Feeding	$6 for one feed bundle, $10 for two	Approximately 10-15 minutes
Keeper Chats	Free with admission	15-20 minutes
Bird Feeding	$2 per feed	As long as desired
Wild Encounters Presentation	Free with admission	20-30 minutes

What Are the Best Times to Visit the Dallas Zoo African Savanna?

The optimal visiting times for the Dallas Zoo African Savanna can vary depending on several factors:

1. Seasonal Considerations:
2. Spring and Summer (March to September): Open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
3. Fall and Winter (October to February): Open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

4. Summer 2024 (July 8 to August 30): Special hours 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., with last admission at 1 p.m.

5. Animal Activity:

6. Early mornings and late afternoons are often the best times to see active animals, especially during hotter months.

7. Feeding times, which vary by species, can offer exciting viewing opportunities.

8. Special Events:

9. Safari Nights and Zoo Lights events offer unique after-hours experiences, though these are not exclusive to the African Savanna area.

10. Crowd Levels:

11. Weekdays typically see fewer visitors compared to weekends.
12. School holidays and summer months tend to be busier.

How Much Does It Cost to Visit the Dallas Zoo African Savanna?

The cost of visiting the Dallas Zoo African Savanna is included in the general admission price for the zoo. Here’s a breakdown of the costs:

• General Admission:
• Adults (12-64): $17-$24 (varies by season)
• Children (3-11): $14-$20 (varies by season)
• Seniors (65+): $14-$20 (varies by season)

• Children under 2: Free

• Parking:

• $12 per car for non-members

• Free for members

• Additional Experiences:

• Giraffe Feeding: $6 for one feed bundle, $10 for two
• Bird Feeding: $2 per feed

It’s recommended to purchase tickets and parking passes online in advance to ensure availability and potentially save on admission costs.

What Conservation Efforts Are Supported by the Dallas Zoo African Savanna?

The Dallas Zoo African Savanna plays a crucial role in the zoo’s overall conservation mission. Here are some key conservation efforts supported by this exhibit:

1. Species Survival Plans (SSPs):
2. The zoo participates in SSPs for several African species, including elephants, giraffes, and lions.

3. These programs aim to maintain healthy, genetically diverse populations of animals in captivity.

4. Education and Awareness:

5. Through keeper chats, signage, and interactive experiences, the exhibit educates visitors about African wildlife and conservation challenges.

6. This increased awareness can lead to greater public support for conservation initiatives.

7. Research:

8. The zoo conducts and supports research on African wildlife, contributing to scientific understanding and conservation strategies.

9. Field Conservation:

10. The Dallas Zoo supports various field conservation projects in Africa, focusing on habitat protection and anti-poaching efforts.

11. Sustainable Practices:

12. The exhibit itself incorporates sustainable design elements, serving as a model for eco-friendly animal habitats.

What Amenities Are Available Near the African Savanna Exhibit?

To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable visit to the Dallas Zoo African Savanna, several amenities are available:

• Restrooms: Located throughout the zoo, including near the African Savanna area.
• Food and Beverage: Several dining options are available, including:
• Prime Meridian Café: Offers a variety of meals and snacks
• Serengeti Grill: Features African-inspired cuisine
• Various snack stands and vending machines
• Gift Shops: Souvenirs and educational materials related to African wildlife are available.
• Seating Areas: Benches and shaded rest areas are provided throughout the exhibit.
• First Aid Station: Available for any medical needs that may arise during your visit.
• Stroller and Wheelchair Rentals: Available at the front of the zoo for an additional fee.

How Can You Plan a Special Event at the Dallas Zoo African Savanna?

The Dallas Zoo offers various options for hosting special events, including within the African Savanna area:

1. Private Events:
2. The zoo can accommodate corporate events, weddings, and birthday parties.

3. Spaces like the Simmons Safari Base Camp offer views of the African Savanna animals.

4. Educational Programs:

5. School groups can book guided tours or educational programs focused on African wildlife.

6. Animal Encounters:

7. For a more intimate experience, private animal encounters can be arranged with some of the African Savanna residents.

8. Photography Sessions:

9. The zoo offers photography packages that can include sessions in the African Savanna area.

To plan a special event, it’s recommended to contact the Dallas Zoo’s events team well in advance, as popular dates can fill up quickly.

What Are the Photography Rules in the Dallas Zoo African Savanna?

Photography is encouraged in the Dallas Zoo African Savanna, but there are some guidelines to ensure the safety and comfort of both visitors and animals:

• Personal photography for non-commercial use is allowed.
• Tripods and monopods are permitted but must not block pathways or disturb other guests.
• Flash photography is prohibited in some areas, particularly near sensitive animals.
• Drones are not allowed within the zoo premises.
• Professional or commercial photography requires prior permission and may incur additional fees.

Remember to be respectful of the animals and other visitors when taking photos. Avoid tapping on glass enclosures or using loud noises to attract animals’ attention.

By following these guidelines, visitors can capture memorable moments while ensuring a positive experience for all.

References:

1. Dallas Zoo – Encounters & Experiences
2. Dallas Zoo – General Information
3. DFWChild – A Guide to the Dallas Zoo