Family attraction, Dartmoor Zoo, has launched two brand new animal encounters for Christmas and 2018, bringing guests closer to nature through its European reindeer and North American timber wolves keeper-guided experiences. Perfect as a Christmas present for anyone fascinated by wildlife, the Reindeer Experience and two new Wolf Encounters join the Zoo’s growing selection of amazing experiences for animal lovers, starting from just £30 per person. The Zoo’s other experiences include: Meet the Tigers; Feed the Meerkats; Adult and Junior Keeper for a Day;  Reptile and Bug experience; VIP “We Bought a Zoo” tour; and Big Cat Keeper for a Day.

While every visit to the Zoo is an opportunity for guests to see exotic, wild and endangered animals, the exclusive encounters offer a more personal experience that brings zoo visitors closer to the animals to learn about their behaviour, care and conservation; get involved in feeding time; and make unforgettable memories.

Rebecca and Michelle Oates took part in the Big Cat Keeper for a Day experience in December.

“My mum and I took part in the Big Cat Keeper for a Day experience and it completely exceeded our expectations!” commented Rebecca. “The keepers were so welcoming and friendly throughout the day while we worked with the lions, tigers, cheetahs, lynx, jaguar, and even some of the other animals. It was an incredible day to remember and I would definitely recommend the experiences at Dartmoor Zoo.”

Benjamin Mee, Dartmoor Zoo chief executive officer, added: “Creating meaningful connections between our residents and visitors is crucial to our mission to enrich the lives of both humans and animals. Our animal encounters have been carefully designed to offer Dartmoor Zoo guests an educational, inspirational, and unforgettable experience with some of our special animals.”

Animal experiences at Dartmoor Zoo are available from £30 - £495, with many available on a Buy One Get One Free basis.

Reindeer Experience

Price: £30 per person, including zoo entry

Age suitability: 6 years and up

Availability: Daily at 11.15am, pre-booking recommended

Meet the European reindeer, stroke, groom, and feed them their favourite food.

Experience duration: 20 minutes

Wolf Encounter

Price: £35 per person, including zoo entry

Age suitability: 8 years and up

Availability: Various, pre-booking essential

Get up close with the North American timber wolves, learn about their fascinating behaviour and take as many photos as you can.

Experience duration: 20 minutes

Wolf Encounter and Howl

Price: £50 per person, including zoo entry

Age suitability: 8 years and up­­

Availability: Various, pre-booking essential

Join the wolf experts at the enclosure fence to learn about the North American timber wolves and their different howls, and take photos to remember this special encounter – you may even experience the wonderful sound of the wolves howling.  

Experience duration: ­­40 minutes

To find out more about hands-on encounters at Dartmoor Zoo, visit https://www.dartmoorzoo.org.uk/get-involved/experiences/.

Dartmoor Zoo was established in 2007 when Benjamin Mee and his family bought an ailing zoo. Since then Ben, his family and team have built the Zoo into the popular tourist attraction it is today. Ben wrote a book about his experience and in 2011 it was made into the Hollywood Film ‘We Bought a Zoo’ starring Matt Damon. In 2014 the Zoo became a charity, of which Ben is CEO. Today the Zoo is heavily involved in research, conservation and education projects to promote the welfare of animals and to enrich both the lives of humans and animals.