easy
15 minutes
Suitable for all fitness levels as the activity requires minimal physical exertion.
Experience a rare chance to connect closely with a corn snake and other exotic animals during a private encounter in New Braunfels, Texas. Guided by an expert zookeeper, this 15-minute session is educational and memorable for all ages.
15 minutes • All ages
Experience the thrill of a lifetime with our Animal Encounters, where you can connect one-on-one with beloved zoo residents like lemurs, fennec foxes, and capybaras. Guided by a zookeeper, these hands-on experiences foster appreciation for wildlife and conservation, creating unforgettable memories in just 15 minutes.
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.
Plan to arrive at least 10 minutes before your private encounter to get oriented and enjoy the surrounding exhibits.
The zoo terrain is easy to navigate but closed-toe shoes will keep you comfortable and safe throughout your visit.
For your safety and animal welfare, always listen closely to the zookeeper’s guidance during your interaction.
Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months when temperatures in Texas can soar.
Animal World & Snake Farm Zoo has been a family-owned wildlife attraction in New Braunfels since 1969, promoting education and conservation.
The zoo actively supports local conservation efforts by educating visitors and participating in sustainable wildlife management programs.
Protect your feet while walking around the zoo grounds.
Shield yourself from the Texas sun during springtime visits.
spring specific
Stay hydrated during warmer months of your visit.
summer specific
Bring a light layer for cooler mornings and evenings.
winter specific