Penguin Encounter at Lehigh Valley Zoo: Up-Close African Penguin Adventure in Schnecksville, PA
Difficulty
easy
Duration
30-40 minutes
Fitness Level
No advanced fitness needed; suitable for families including children aged 5 and above with minimal mobility requirements.
Overview
Get up close and personal with a colony of charming African penguins at Lehigh Valley Zoo’s Penguin Encounter in Schnecksville, Pennsylvania. Learn about their unique behaviors and conservation while enjoying an interactive, private experience.
Penguin Encounter
AVAILABILITY COMING THIS SPRING • 30-40 Minutes • Ages 5+
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About This Adventure
Immerse yourself in a unique one-on-one encounter with African Penguins! This interactive experience allows you to learn about these endangered birds, their conservation, and their vibrant personalities while engaging with them in their habitat. Capture unforgettable moments as you interact with these charming creatures during a memorable 30-40 minute program.
Note: All Penguin Encounters must be booked by submitting here#
Experience a One-on-One Interaction with our colony of African Penguins!
Duration
30-40 Minutes
About
Learn all about our African Penguins with an interactive, private encounter! During this one-of-a-kind experience, you will learn about this -- an endangered species of remarkable birds, discuss conservation issues they face and interact up close with our colony.
A penguin encounter includes guests entering their habitat with an educator, where you’ll learn about their species, why they are endangered, and about the individuals (they may be little birds but they have BIG personalities). Guests will also have the opportunity to interact with the penguins using enrichment items. During this 30-40 minute program, be sure to take lots of pictures as our penguins waddle their way around you and into your heart.
We cannot guarantee how many penguins will come over to interact during the encounter and/or the variability of their behavior. Our educators are experts in determining what is appropriate and doable based off the animal’s behavior that day.
Requirements and Reservations
- Participants must be at least 5 years old and above 40” tall
- Participants under 15 years old must be accompanied by an adult
- Reservations must be made at least one weeks in advance to your desired date
- Pants and socks are required for the encounter (boots will be provided upon entering exhibit)
- Encounters will be held at 9:15 am, open all year round (weather dependent)
Adventure Tips
Book Early
Reservations must be made at least one week in advance to secure your spot for the Penguin Encounter.
Dress Appropriately
Wear pants and socks as boots are provided for hygiene and safety inside the penguin habitat.
Arrive on Time
Encounters begin promptly at 9:15 a.m. to maximize your experience and infrastructure availability.
Mind the Penguins’ Mood
Penguin interaction varies by day and behavior; follow educators’ guidelines for the best experience.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- African penguins
- Barn owls
History
Lehigh Valley Zoo is part of the Lehigh Valley Zoological Society, established to promote wildlife conservation and education within Pennsylvania.
Conservation
The zoo actively supports endangered species programs and emphasizes sustainable practices to minimize ecological impact in the region.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable closed-toe shoes
For walking to and at the zoo grounds before and after the encounter.
Camera or smartphone
Capture memorable moments as penguins interact closely during the session.
Light jacket or layers
spring specific
Water bottle
Stay hydrated while exploring the zoo after your encounter.
summer specific