Houston Zoo offers a diverse range of exciting trips and encounters for zoo enthusiasts, catering to various interests and age groups. Whether you’re a nature lover, an animal enthusiast, or an educator, the Houston Zoo has something special in store for you. Let’s dive into the details of these remarkable experiences.
Animal Encounters
The Houston Zoo provides visitors with the opportunity to get up close and personal with some of the most fascinating creatures on the planet. These animal encounters offer a unique and immersive experience that will leave you with lasting memories.
General Animal Encounter
- Duration: 30-45 minutes
- Cost: $195 (Member), $220 (Non-member)
- Includes all-day zoo admission
- Limited to 8 people per encounter
- Accessibility: Walking and standing for 45 minutes, unpaved surfaces, wheelchair accessible
This encounter allows you to interact with a variety of animals, guided by knowledgeable zoo staff. You’ll have the chance to learn about the animals’ behaviors, habitats, and conservation efforts.
Elephant Bathing Encounter
- Duration: 45 minutes
- Cost: $225 (Member), $250 (Non-member)
- Includes all-day zoo admission
- Limited to 6 people per encounter
- Accessibility: Walking and standing for 45 minutes, lifting large brushes, may get wet, wheelchair accessible
Imagine the thrill of assisting in the bathing of the zoo’s majestic elephants. This encounter allows you to get up close and personal with these gentle giants, while also learning about their care and conservation.
Gorilla Encounter
- Duration: 45 minutes
- Cost: $65 (Member), $90 (Non-member)
- Includes all-day zoo admission
- Limited to 6 people per encounter
- Accessibility: Walking and standing for 45 minutes, ability to go up and down stairs, elevator available, wheelchair accessible
Witness the awe-inspiring presence of the zoo’s gorillas as you observe their behavior and learn about their fascinating social dynamics. This encounter offers a rare opportunity to connect with these magnificent primates.
Field Trips
The Houston Zoo also caters to educational institutions, offering both free and paid field trip options.
Free Field Trips
- Available for Title I accredited schools and schools within Houston City Limits
- $25 processing fee
Paid Field Trips
- Available for all educational institutions accredited by the Texas Education Agency or the Texas Private School Accreditation Commission
- Cost: $15 (Students), $17 (Additional Adults), $25 (Processing Fee), $3 (Wildlife Carousel rides)
These field trips provide students with a hands-on learning experience, allowing them to explore the zoo’s diverse habitats and learn about the importance of wildlife conservation.
Wildlife Travel Trips
For those seeking a more immersive and adventurous experience, the Houston Zoo offers a series of wildlife travel trips to destinations around the world.
2024 Galápagos: Land of Darwin
- Dates: August 11 – August 20, 2024
- Cost: $8,999 per person
- Single supplement: $3,499
Explore the enchanting Galápagos Islands, the birthplace of Darwin’s theory of evolution, and witness the unique wildlife that inspired his groundbreaking work.
2025 Mexico: Migration of the Monarchs
- Dates: February 8 – February 13, 2025
- Contact the Houston Zoo’s Development department for booking instructions
Witness the awe-inspiring migration of the monarch butterflies in the forests of Mexico, a natural wonder that captivates visitors from around the world.
2024 Borneo: Red Ape Encounter
- Dates: September 27 – October 6, 2024
- Cost: $9,895 per person
- Single supplement: $3,400
- Contact the Houston Zoo’s Development department for booking instructions
Embark on a journey to the lush rainforests of Borneo and encounter the elusive and endangered red apes, also known as orangutans, in their natural habitat.
To learn more about these exciting opportunities or to book your Houston Zoo trip, please contact the relevant departments:
- Education Department: [email protected], 713-533-6739
- Development Department: [email protected], 713.533.6819
- Field Trips: [email protected]
References:
– Houston Zoo Animal Encounters
– Houston Zoo Field Trips
– Houston Zoo Wildlife Travel Trips