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Close Encounters

Choose from one of our magical Animal Close Encounter Experiences for a chance to get nose-to-nose with some of your favourite residents!

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:

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.

If you wish to redeem a gift voucher, please contact our team on 01323 874100 or email [email protected]

Gift voucher holders will need to contact us to request a booking form. We regret that we are unable to make provisional bookings or take bookings over the phone.

Please make sure you read our Health & Safety information before booking an encounter. 

We strongly advise that anyone taking part in an animal encounter has an up-to-date tetanus vaccination. Tetanus is a serious infection that can be transmitted by animals. Should you wish to take part without up-to-date tetanus immunisation, you will be asked to complete a form to confirm you understand the potential risks involved. 

Upgrade Your Experience

Can't choose between our animal encounters? Don't! Spend the whole day with us by booking our Keeper for the Day experience and make many new furry friends!

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