Feeding the giraffes at Whipsnade Zoo is a unique and unforgettable experience that allows visitors to get up close and personal with these majestic creatures. The “Meet the Giraffes” experience offers a chance to hand-feed the zoo’s giraffe herd, learn fascinating facts from expert keepers, and enjoy an intimate encounter with these gentle giants.
What is the “Meet the Giraffes” Experience?
The “Meet the Giraffes” experience at Whipsnade Zoo is a 20-minute interactive session that takes place daily from late April to October at 12:00 pm. This VIP encounter allows participants to enter a special feeding area and hand-feed the zoo’s giraffe herd under the guidance of a knowledgeable keeper.
During the experience, the keeper will provide a safety briefing and share fascinating insights about the giraffes’ behavior, biology, and conservation. Visitors will have the opportunity to ask questions and learn more about these remarkable animals.
Eligibility and Booking
To participate in the “Meet the Giraffes” experience, visitors must be at least 8 years of age. Children under 16 must be accompanied by a participating adult, with a maximum of two children per adult. Pregnant or nursing mothers, as well as those with learning or visual impairments, are unable to participate due to health and safety considerations.
Tickets for the “Meet the Giraffes” experience can be booked online through the ZSL website. The cost is £54 per person, with a 10% discount available for ZSL Gold Members, Patrons, and Fellows. Admission to the zoo is not included in the experience and must be purchased separately.
What to Expect
During the “Meet the Giraffes” experience, participants will be taken to a designated feeding area where they will have the opportunity to hand-feed the giraffes. The keeper will provide guidance on how to safely interact with the animals and will share fascinating facts about their behavior, diet, and conservation status.
Visitors can expect to get up close and personal with the giraffes, who are known for their gentle and curious nature. The experience is limited to a maximum of four people at a time, ensuring an intimate and personalized encounter.
Additional Animal Experiences at Whipsnade Zoo
For those seeking a more immersive animal experience, Whipsnade Zoo offers the “Keeper for a Day” program. This full-day experience allows participants to work alongside keepers and interact with a variety of animals, including rhinos, giraffes, and elephants.
The “Keeper for a Day” experience is available Monday to Friday (excluding bank holidays) and includes animal encounters, mucking out activities, breakfast, lunch, and refreshments. Participants must be over 16 years old and have a reasonable level of fitness, with appropriate closed-toe footwear required. Unfortunately, wheelchair access is not available for this experience.
Conclusion
Feeding the giraffes at Whipsnade Zoo is a truly unique and unforgettable experience that allows visitors to get up close and personal with these majestic creatures. The “Meet the Giraffes” encounter offers an intimate and educational opportunity to learn about the zoo’s giraffe herd and support their conservation.
Whether you’re a seasoned zoo enthusiast or a first-time visitor, the “Meet the Giraffes” experience at Whipsnade Zoo is sure to leave a lasting impression and create cherished memories.