1-800-258-9182

Giraffe Encounters

Giraffe Encounters begin May 20, 2023!

The giraffe habitat is open daily during the season for all zoo visitors to view the giraffes.

Pricing and Availability

Giraffe encounter tickets are very limited and cannot be purchased or reserved in advance. Giraffe encounter tickets are only available to purchase at the gate with Guest Services, first come first served.

Have a question about Giraffe Encounters? Email guestservices@southwickszoo.com

Weather Permitting: Giraffe encounters are typically available weekends (and certain holidays) from mid-May to mid-September as long as it is at least 60°F and not raining. If the weather looks questionable, please give us a call at 1-800-258-9182 ext 211 to find out whether or not they are available that day.

$20 per ticket Tickets often sell out, so we strongly recommend arriving early.

Encounter Times: 11:30 am, 1:30 pm, & 3:30 pm

Giraffe Encounters are only available on Saturdays, Sundays, & some holidays (Memorial Day, 4th of July, Labor Day).
*Giraffe encounters are available seasonally, typically mid-May to mid-September.

Giraffe Encounters include a short presentation followed by the amazing experience of getting up close & personal to feed these beautiful creatures. Please do not try to touch or pet the giraffes during your encounter.

Tickets are limited for Giraffe Encounters and can be purchased at the Main Entrance of the Zoo. Giraffe Encounters cannot be reserved in advance and are available on a first come, first served basis. Gift certificates cannot be purchased for giraffe encounters. We advise you to please purchase your tickets for Giraffe Encounters early on the day of your visit as they often sell out very quickly and we have a limited supply per each feeding.

Participant Age Guidelines:

  • Children ages 7 and under must be accompanied by an adult into the encounter area to help them hold their portion of browse.
  • Only one giraffe encounter ticket is required for a child aged 7 or under and the adult helping them. If encounter tickets are purchased for both the child and the assisting adult, then the child and adult will each receive one piece of browse.