Do I need to buy zoo admission separately?

Yes, the Hippo Encounter ticket does not include zoo admission; you must purchase a separate ticket to enter the zoo.

Can children participate in the Hippo Encounter?

Children ages 6 and older may join, but those between 6 and 12 must be accompanied by a paying adult.

How long does the Hippo Encounter last?

The encounter lasts approximately 20 minutes.

How many hippos will I see during the encounter?

Guests will meet and feed two Nile hippos at the Kiboko River Station.

Are there any restrictions or health considerations?

All participants must be able to follow specialist instructions, and the encounter is not recommended for very young children.

When do Hippo Encounters take place?

Encounters occur once daily at 12:00 PM, and reservations are strongly recommended.

Hippo Encounters at Gulf Breeze Zoo: A Rare Animal Experience | Guided Tour | Attraction

Located in Gulf Breeze, Florida, The Gulf Breeze Zoo offers an intimate and educational chance to meet one of the animal kingdom’s most impressive giants through its Hippo Encounters at the Kiboko River Station. This behind-the-scenes experience provides visitors with rare access to Nile hippos, the world’s third-largest land mammals, known for their formidable size and surprisingly social behaviors.

Set within the zoo’s specialized river habitat, guests engage closely with two magnificent hippos under the supervision of dedicated animal care specialists who guide the encounter. The experience includes feeding the hippos and gaining firsthand knowledge about their daily care, unique physical adaptations, and the conservation initiatives aimed at preserving their wild populations in Africa.

What sets this encounter apart is not just interaction, but immersion in the hippos’ world—the opportunity to observe the subtle details of their movements and behavior up close. The Kiboko River Station offers a realistic riverine environment that showcases native aquatic plants and enriches the animals’ natural living conditions, underscoring the zoo’s commitment to responsible animal welfare.

The Gulf Breeze Zoo itself holds a special place in the region’s outdoor recreation, merging wildlife education with conservation advocacy. Located near the northern edge of the Florida Panhandle, it complements the area's outdoor scene by providing an accessible, family-friendly wildlife experience that can enrich any outdoor visit.

With encounters offered once daily at noon, this 20-minute session is designed for visitors ages six and up, making it an exceptional educational outing for children and adults alike. Reservations are strongly recommended to secure a spot. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or simply seeking a unique activity, this encounter delivers a memorable glimpse into the lives of a species few ever get to approach this closely.

About The Gulf Breeze Zoo

The Gulf Breeze Zoo in Gulf Breeze, Florida, is an award-winning 30-acre wildlife preserve home to more than 800 exotic animals. Founded to provide immersive animal encounters and conservation education, the zoo offers daily admission experiences, specialty encounters, and seasonal events designed for families and wildlife enthusiasts. Guests can interact directly with animals through curated programs such as giraffe feedings, Galapagos tortoise and sloth encounters, hippo and albino alligator experiences, and a behind-the-scenes rhino encounter led by trained keepers. The zoo operates the Safari Line Train, a guided route across the 30-acre grounds, and features a Budgie Adventure Aviary and a hands-on petting area for younger visitors.

All encounters emphasize safety, animal welfare, and education; staff and animal care specialists supervise interactive sessions and provide information about species behavior and conservation status. The zoo highlights conservation efforts for threatened species and uses encounter proceeds to support animal care and educational programming. Seasonal festivals such as Boo at the Zoo and holiday Zoobilee events create family-friendly opportunities for community engagement.

Located near Pensacola in Gulf Breeze, Florida, the facility balances public access with professional animal husbandry. Visitors receive clear guidelines for interactions, photography, and feeding protocols to ensure animal comfort and guest safety. The Gulf Breeze Zoo maintains its reputation through accredited animal care practices, experienced staff, and a focus on experiential learning that fosters appreciation for wildlife and conservation. Advance ticketing is available for specialized encounters and seasonal events to manage limited daily spots and enhance guest experience and learning.