Is there an age restriction for the Face to Face Challenge?

Participants must be 18 or older to book online; minors can participate if booked in person with a guardian present.

How close do I get to the alligator during the challenge?

You’ll be just inches away from Big Daddy, separated only by a Gator Stick and supervised by a professional keeper for safety.

What should I wear for this experience?

Closed-toe shoes and comfortable clothes suited to Florida weather are recommended to ensure safety and comfort.

Are photos provided during the challenge?

Yes, a professional photo capturing your encounter will be taken and shared with you as a memento of your adventure.

Can I feed Big Daddy myself?

Yes, under the keeper’s guidance, you will feed Big Daddy using the designated Gator Stick, making this a hands-on experience.

Is this experience safe for first-time participants?

Absolutely—trained keepers lead every step and prioritize safety without sacrificing the thrill of a true face-to-face encounter.

Face to Face Challenge with Gatorama Alligator Encounter | Attraction

Located along the wild edges of Palmdale, Florida, Gatorama offers a raw and pulse-quickening experience that breaks the mold of typical wildlife encounters. The Face to Face Challenge puts you directly on the banks of a natural pond to meet Big Daddy, a formidable alligator who’s more than just a photo op. This 25-minute session is a mix of education and adrenaline, guiding you to feed Big Daddy using a specialized Gator Stick under the close watch of a lead keeper. It’s a rare chance to learn alligator behavior from experts in a controlled but thrilling setting.

Palmdale sits in the heart of Florida’s rich wetlands, a landscape defined by its marshes, cypress trees, and abundant wildlife, including Florida’s iconic alligators. Gatorama plays a unique role here, combining conservation education with hands-on adventure. Unlike passive zoo visits, this challenge immerses participants in the dynamics of alligator care—training signals, feeding habits, and safety protocols—delivered with authentic passion.

This encounter stands out because it’s not behind glass or fences but virtually eye-to-eye on the edge of an alligator habitat. The unfiltered engagement gives adventurers a vivid understanding of the species’ strength and presence in Florida’s ecosystem. Beyond Big Daddy, the site educates visitors on Florida’s natural history and the delicate balance of the wetland environment, highlighting the importance of preserving these apex predators.

Limited to adults booking online or younger participants through in-person arrangements, this experience is curated for those ready to take a calculated risk in exchange for a vivid memory. After feeding and interacting, guests receive a professional photo that captures the magnitude of the moment—a testament to trust and respect between human and reptile. For anyone seeking a standout Florida adventure beyond hiking trails and waterways, the Face to Face Challenge at Gatorama delivers heart-pounding reality in every sense.