Close Encounters

Our Close Encounters are an amazing, one-to-one experience which involve feeding the animals and helping our Zoo Keepers with part of their daily routine. Each of our close encounters last between 30-40 magical minutes and can be booked for one or two participants.

Drusillas Annual Members enjoy 25% off VIP Animal Experiences! Find out how to access your discount here

We have a range of experiences for you to choose from including:

• Keeper for the Day (Full day offered daily)
• Spider Phobia Course (Full day on selected dates)
• Red Panda Encounter (11.30am daily)
• Lemur Encounter (12.45pm daily)
• Armadillo Encounter (2pm daily)
• Anteater Encounter (2.30pm daily)
• Camel Encounter (2.30pm daily)
• Meerkat Encounter (2.45pm daily)
• Sloth Encounter (3pm daily)
• Reptile Encounter (3pm daily)
• Capybara & Beaver Encounter (3.15pm daily)
• Penguin Encounter (3.45pm daily)
• Tarantula Encounter (various dates available)

Prices vary depending on the encounter and date you choose. 

Please note that some of our enclosures are only accessible via steps. Our lemurs, anteaters, and reptiles all have accessible enclosures.

Please see the booking calendar for your chosen encounter to view prices

Minimum age is 5 years for single animal encounters, 6 years for Keeper for the Day and Children's Photography Days, and 12 years for Spider Phobia Courses. There is no maximum age!

• Entry to the Park is included for the Close Encounter participant(s).
• Accompanying (non participating) guests will require a valid day ticket.
• Participants under 16 must be accommpanied by an adult who is complimentary for Keeper for the Day only, but will require a paid valid day ticket for single animal encounters.
• An additional participant can be added for any of our encounters, additional costs are applicable. 
• We offer Close Encounter Gift Vouchers for a fun and unusual pressie!
• Please read our Animal Experience Terms & Conditions before booking.