Private Giraffe Encounter at Lehigh Valley Zoo, Pennsylvania
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.
Giraffe Encounter
Starting June 5 • 30 Minutes • Ages 5+
Select participants and date
About This Adventure
Engage in a unique one-on-one experience with male Masai giraffes, Joshua and Tatu, on a private feeding deck. Participate in a creative giraffe painting session and take home a personalized canvas. Enjoy the zoo before or after your encounter, making this a memorable day with these gentle giants.
Experience a One-on-One Interaction with our pair of male Masai giraffes, Joshua and Tatu!
Duration
30 Minutes
About
Experience a one-on-one Interaction with our pair of male Masai giraffes, Joshua and Tatu, along with a special keeper chat on the private lower giraffe feeding deck. You will participate in helping our giraffe ‘paint’ a canvas and take home this one-of-a-kind keepsake. Each participant will also have the opportunity to feed the giraffe during the 20-30 minute experience. Participants will also be able to enjoy the Zoo during the day prior to/after the scheduled time of their encounter. Please note, there is no petting the giraffe during this encounter.
Requirements and Reservations
- Encounter covers up to 4 guests
- Participants must be at least 5 years old
- Participants under 18 years old must be accompanied by an adult
- Reservations must be made at least one week in advance to your desired date
New for 2025: Two options for time of encounter (10:15 a.m. / 3 p.m.) to select during purchase!
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
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.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Allentown, PA
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable Walking Shoes
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
Let you capture memorable interaction moments with the giraffes and zoo surroundings.