THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Meet Stanley the bear and Lucy the leopard on a guided walk through Elmira’s Wildlife Sanctuary in Wimauma, Florida. This interactive tour lets you get closer to rescued exotic animals with expert volunteers leading the way.
Meet Stanley the bear and Lucy the leopard on a guided walk through Elmira’s Wildlife Sanctuary in Wimauma, Florida. This interactive tour lets you get closer to rescued exotic animals with expert volunteers leading the way.
Book with Elmira's Wildlife Sanctuary
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Elmira's Wildlife Sanctuary · Wimauma, Florida
Elmira's Wildlife Sanctuary, located in Wimauma, Florida, offers a distinctive opportunity to connect with some of the most captivating exotic animals just steps from Tampa Bay's urban edges. This isn't your typical zoo visit. The Tour of Elmira's Wildlife Sanctuary invites guests onto an intimate, guided path through a spacious sanctuary where animals like Stanley the bear and Lucy the leopard greet visitors with surprising approachability.
Set amidst Florida’s subtropical landscape, the sanctuary showcases a mix of Florida pine flatwoods and open field habitats carefully designed to meet the needs of rescued wildlife. Here, you get a rare chance to observe species often out of reach in conventional settings—whether it’s Stanley’s lumbering but gentle presence or Lucy prowling with graceful intensity. Volunteers actively care for these animals, offering engaging insights about their lives, rehabilitation journeys, and behaviors.
The sanctuary holds a vital role as both a refuge and educational hub, emphasizing respect for wildlife that is especially important in a region where development pressures encroach on native habitats. Unlike roadside attractions or large zoos, Elmira’s provides a community-focused experience with small groups and personalized attention.
The tour covers roughly 1.5 hours of walking with options for golf cart rides if needed, making it accessible for families and those with limited mobility. Reservations are essential due to limited group sizes and high demand. Whether you're a wildlife enthusiast or simply seeking a hands-on outdoor activity that blends nature, animal welfare, and leisurely exploration, Elmira’s Wildlife Sanctuary is a standout destination near Tampa that broadens appreciation for Florida’s wild inhabitants beyond the ordinary.
easy.
1.5 hours.
Suitable for most visitors including families, with optional golf cart rides for those needing assistance.
Yes, all tours require advanced reservation due to limited group sizes.
The paths are stroller accessible, and a golf cart ride is available for visitors needing mobility assistance—be sure to request this ahead of your visit.
Visitors can get much closer than in a traditional zoo setting, with guided interaction that respects animal safety and welfare.
Yes, children of all ages are welcome. Children under 3 visit free, while tickets are discounted for youth.
Absolutely, photography is encouraged to capture your unique wildlife encounters.
Wear comfortable shoes, bring sun protection like hats and sunscreen, and carry water if desired.
Elmira's Wildlife Sanctuary was established to provide lifelong care for exotic animals rescued from problematic situations in Florida and beyond.
The sanctuary focuses on rehabilitation and public education to promote coexistence with wildlife and reduce human impact on natural habitats.
Elmira's Wildlife Sanctuary in Wimauma, Florida, is a dedicated wildlife rescue and visitor attraction offering guided, educational tours that connect guests with rescued animals. The sanctuary operates hands-on, volunteer-supported visitor experiences focused on animal welfare, conservation awareness, and safe, informative encounters. Visitors join the Tour of Elmira's Wildlife Sanctuary to meet resident animals up close, including Stanley the bear and Lucy the leopard, while learning about each animal's history, care routines, and rehabilitation efforts. Tours are interactive and family-friendly, designed for small groups to maximize safety and engagement. Advanced reservations are required for the Tour of Elmira's Wildlife Sanctuary to ensure proper staffing, animal welfare, and personalized attention from experienced volunteers. On-site volunteers answer questions, demonstrate enrichment activities, and share behind-the-scenes insights about daily care and habitat management. The sanctuary emphasizes transparency and responsibility: every visit promotes respectful observation, standardized safety protocols, and educational messaging about conservation and endangered species. While not all encounters involve direct contact with animals, each tour prioritizes animal well-being and guest education. Visitors are encouraged to book early to secure preferred dates and times for guided tours and group visits.
Book with Elmira's Wildlife Sanctuary