easy
15 minutes
No special fitness required; suitable for all ages and physical abilities.
Enjoy a one-of-a-kind private animal encounter in New Braunfels, TX with exotic species like the Burmese python and lemurs. Guided by experts, this 15-minute experience is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts eager to learn and connect.
15 minutes • All ages
Experience an unforgettable 15-minute animal encounter at the Zoo, where you can connect with amazing animal ambassadors like lemurs, fennec foxes, and capybaras. Guided by a zookeeper, you'll learn about conservation while creating lasting memories. Capture the moments with photos as you engage in this unique, hands-on adventure!
Admission is separate and required to participate in an Animal Encounter
Book an animal encounter for an experience of a lifetime for you and your loved ones!
15 minutes
Our animal encounters are focused on the importance of conservation while encouraging compassion for Mother Earth. Through these hands-on encounters, we strive to make real-world connections for our guests with the use of our animal ambassadors. There is no better way to connect with our residents than getting to spend one on one time with them and their zookeeper. Your appreciation for our natural world is sure to grow as you watch how agile our lemurs are as they scamper around your lap, feel how soft and gentle our resident fennec foxes are, or look in the eyes of one of our baby capybaras as you hand them their favorite treat.
Make memories that will last a lifetime by meeting Joe our fennec fox, Tilly the brown lemur, Enzo the capybara, Waffles the pancake tortoise, and many more!
Animal encounters include a private encounter with a zoo keeper and an animal ambassador of your choosing.
FREE PARKING!
THERE WILL BE NO REFUNDS
Can we take photos during the encounter? Absolutely! We encourage all parties to bring a cellphone or camera!
Do we get to hold the animals? That all depends on which animal ambassador is selected! Though all encounters are hands-on opportunities, some animals are comfortable being held while others are not.
How early should we arrive? We ask that you show up 15 minutes early, that way you have plenty of time to park and purchase your admission tickets.
Can my service dog come? Service dogs may come into the Zoo, but they are not permitted to join the animal encounter for the safety of the animal ambassadors.
Secure your spot early as private experiences have limited availability.
Light, breathable clothing works best for the indoor/outdoor zoo environment.
Follow the zookeeper's instructions closely for a safe and enjoyable interaction.
Capture your moments but avoid using flash near the animals.
Animal World & Snake Farm Zoo is one of Texas' oldest privately owned zoos, operating since 1963 with a strong focus on exotic and native species.
The zoo participates in numerous conservation and breeding programs to protect endangered species and educate the public on wildlife preservation.
Ideal for navigating the zoo grounds smoothly during your visit.
Protect yourself from the Texas sun when outdoors in summer.
summer specific
Stay hydrated throughout your adventure, especially in warm weather.
Capture special moments with the animals during your encounter.