Private Giraffe Encounter at Lehigh Valley Zoo, Pennsylvania - Allentown, PA

Private Giraffe Encounter at Lehigh Valley Zoo, Pennsylvania

Allentown, PAeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

1–2 hours

Fitness Level

No special fitness level is needed; light walking and standing are required during feeding and painting activities.

Overview

Get up close with Joshua and Tatu, male Masai giraffes, during a private feeding and creative painting session at Lehigh Valley Zoo. Create your own giraffe artwork and explore the zoo for a memorable day.

Details

Experience an unforgettable face-to-face adventure with male Masai giraffes, Joshua and Tatu, at the Lehigh Valley Zoo in Schnecksville, Pennsylvania. This private Giraffe Encounter offers a rare opportunity to feed these gentle giants from a specially designed feeding deck, ensuring a close and personal experience. Beyond feeding, guests participate in a creative giraffe painting session, where you can craft and take home a unique canvas as a lasting memory of your visit. Your private session includes access to explore the zoo's exhibits either before or after the encounter, making this an enriching day filled with wildlife and creativity. The hands-on nature of the experience, combined with the warm hospitality of the zoo staff, creates a meaningful connection with these extraordinary creatures. Ideal for families, wildlife enthusiasts, or anyone seeking a one-of-a-kind outdoor activity in Pennsylvania, this encounter perfectly balances education, fun, and wildlife conservation awareness.

Adventure Tips

Wear Comfortable Shoes

The encounter includes walking around the feeding deck and zoo grounds, so comfortable footwear is recommended.

Arrive Early to Explore

Plan to arrive before your scheduled encounter to enjoy other exhibits and make the most of your visit.

Follow Staff Instructions

For safety and the best experience, closely follow all guidelines provided by the zoo team during giraffe feeding.

Protect Your Camera

Bring a camera or smartphone with a secure strap to capture great moments without risk around the giraffes.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Check out the owl and bird of prey exhibits often overlooked by visitors.
  • Visit the rustic picnic areas near the zoo’s pond for a peaceful break.

Wildlife

  • Masai giraffes Joshua and Tatu
  • North American river otters

History

Lehigh Valley Zoo has been committed to animal conservation and education since 1974, growing steadily as a community resource.

Conservation

The zoo actively participates in breeding programs and habitat preservation efforts supporting endangered species like the Masai giraffe.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour
Late morning
Overcast days

Best Viewpoints

  • From the private feeding deck for close animal portraits
  • Near the giraffe enclosure gates
  • Along pathways offering background greenery and foliage

What to Photograph

Giraffes
Zoo landscapes
Visitor interactions

Recommended Gear

Comfortable Walking Shoes

Essential

Provides support for walking around the zoo and standing during your giraffe encounter.

Light Jacket or Layered Clothing

Keeps you comfortable during cool mornings or breezy weather.

spring specific

Sun Hat and Sunscreen

Protects you from sun exposure during outdoor parts of your visit.

summer specific

Camera or Smartphone

Essential

Let you capture memorable interaction moments with the giraffes and zoo surroundings.

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