Top Things To Do In Chester Zoo (Chester) In 2026 - 2027

Top 10 things to do in Chester Zoo

1. 1. Islands at Chester Zoo

   Islands at Chester Zoo offers a unique experience to explore six South East Asian island habitats that have been recreated to provide an immersive adventure for visitors. As you embark on a journey through the Islands, you encounter a rich array of wildlife, including the Sumatran tigers, Visayan warty pigs, and Indonesian Sulawesi macaques. The detailed and carefully crafted environments allow you to appreciate the biodiversity of these regions and understand the conservation work being done to preserve such precious ecosystems. The boat trip along the Lazy River offers a serene view of the islands from a different perspective, all while learning more about the zoo's role in saving species from extinction. Not only is this a learning experience, but a walking thrill through the heart of tropical environments right here in the UK.

   Duration: 2-3 hours · Price: Included with general admission (Prices vary by season and age)

2. 2. Butterfly Journey

   Immerse yourself in the enchanting Butterfly Journey at Chester Zoo, where you can walk amongst hundreds of exotic and beautiful butterflies from around the world in a tropical environment. The specially designed habitat replicates the conditions of the rainforest, providing the perfect setting for these delicate creatures to thrive. As you wander through this tranquil space, expect to see a kaleidoscope of colors fluttering above and around you, and if you’re lucky, you might even witness the magical moment of a butterfly emerging from its chrysalis. The exhibit also educates visitors on the life cycle of butterflies and the importance of conserving their habitats, making it not just an experience of natural beauty but also an informative one that highlights the significance of these insects to our global ecosystem.

   Duration: 30-45 minutes · Price: Included with general admission (Prices vary by season and age)

3. 3. African Plains

   The African Plains brings a slice of the Savanna to the heart of Chester. Here, visitors can observe some of Africa's most iconic species, including giraffes, rhinos, and ostriches, in expansive habitats that mimic their natural environments. The exhibit allows for up-close encounters with these magnificent creatures, offering a unique opportunity to learn about their behaviors, diets, and social structures. Educational talks and feeding demonstrations by the keepers provide deeper insight into the lives of these animals and the challenges they face in the wild. The zoo's commitment to conservation means that your visit also supports ongoing efforts to protect these species in their native homelands. Whether you're watching the graceful giraffes roam or the powerful rhinos graze, the African Plains exhibit is sure to leave a lasting impression.

   Duration: 1-2 hours · Price: Included with general admission (Prices vary by season and age)

4. 4. Monsoon Forest

   Monsoon Forest at Chester Zoo is the UK's largest zoological building, designed to replicate the conditions of South East Asia's tropical environments. This exhibit provides sanctuary to some of the region’s most endangered species, including, hornbills, and fruit bats. The Monsoon Forest is an immersive, multi-sensory experience; you can feel the humidity, hear the sounds of the forest, and witness birds and other animals move freely around you. Educational signage helps visitors learn about the creatures' habits and the conservation measures in place to protect their dwindling habitats. Within the building, there are various levels to explore, which offer different perspectives of the forest, including treetop views. It's not just an exhibit but a vital conservation tool, teaching visitors the value of these ecosystems and the global efforts to save them.

   Duration: 1-2 hours · Price: Included with general admission (Prices vary by season and age)

5. 5. Madagascar PLAY! Area

   Madagascar PLAY! at Chester Zoo is not just a playground—it's an adventure zone inspired by the wildlife and landscapes of Madagascar. This play area is designed for children of all ages and includes a range of equipment such as climbing frames, swings, and slides, encouraging active play and exploration. As kids run, jump, and climb, they're also learning about the unique species that inhabit Madagascar, such as lemurs and fossas, through informational play elements. The area is safely constructed to ensure fun and carefree playtime. While the children play, parents can relax in the nearby seating area, still being able to keep a watchful eye on their young adventurers. Madagascar PLAY! is not only about physical activity but also about fostering a connection between children and nature, promoting conservation from a young age.

   Duration: 1-2 hours · Price: Included with general admission (Prices vary by season and age)

6. 6. The Secret Life of the Zoo Behind the Scenes Tour

   For the ultimate animal enthusiast, The Secret Life of the Zoo Behind the Scenes tour at Chester Zoo offers an exclusive opportunity to see what goes on beyond the enclosures. This VIP experience takes visitors on a guided tour to areas normally off-limits, providing a deeper understanding of what it takes to care for over 35,000 animals. Participants can expect to meet some of their favorite animals up close, watch health checks, learn about the zoo's breeding programs, and even witness mealtime preparations in the animal kitchens. The passionate and knowledgeable keepers share personal stories and facts about the zoo's inhabitants, fostering greater appreciation for the incredible work happening every day. This behind-the-scenes journey is an unforgettable experience that gives you a unique glimpse of the dedication behind wildlife conservation and animal care.

   Duration: Approximately 90 minutes · Price: £59 per person (prices may vary)

7. 7. Junior Zookeeper for a Day

   The Junior Zookeeper for a Day program at Chester Zoo is a dream come true for children who love animals. This hands-on experience invites young animal lovers to spend the day working with the zoo's expert staff to get a taste of what it takes to care for the diverse species that call the zoo home. Under close supervision, kids have the chance to prepare food, feed animals, and even help with some of their daily care routines. The program is both educational and exciting, teaching children about animal behavior, conservation issues, and the importance of zoos in protecting vulnerable species. This unique and educational day out is designed to ignite passion for wildlife and conservation in the younger generation. It’s the perfect experience for aspiring young conservationists and animal enthusiasts.

   Duration: Full day · Price: £250 per person (booking required, prices and availability may vary)

8. 8. Meet the Animals

   For a more personalized animal experience, Chester Zoo's 'Meet the Animals' encounters allow guests to get up close and personal with some of their favorite zoo residents. Whether it’s feeding a giraffe, being inches away from a magnificent big cat, or meeting mischievous meerkats, this experience offers an intimate glimpse into the lives of these incredible creatures. Each encounter is led by one of the zoo's knowledgeable keepers, who provide fascinating insights and answer questions about the animals you meet. This is a wonderful way to create lasting memories while gaining a greater understanding of the importance of wild species and their environments. The ‘Meet the Animals’ experience is perfect for all ages and is sure to be a highlight of your visit to Chester Zoo.

   Duration: Varies by animal encounter · Price: Starts at £99 per person (additional to general admission, prices may vary by encounter, pre-booking required)

9. 9. Nature Reserve

   The Nature Reserve at Chester Zoo is a haven for native wildlife and provides a serene escape for visitors looking to enjoy the beauty of nature. The reserve has a diversity of habitats, such as grasslands, wetlands, and woodlands, each supporting different species from birds and butterflies to amphibians and mammals. Walking trails and bird hides allow for wildlife watching in peace, and informative signage gives context to what you might see and hear. The Nature Reserve is a testament to the zoo's commitment to local biodiversity and provides an enriching complement to the exotic habitats seen elsewhere in the zoo. This area offers a calming experience and reminds visitors of the incredible wildlife that can be found closer to home, all while emphasizing the need for conservation efforts both globally and in our own backyards.

   Duration: 1 hour · Price: Included with general admission (Prices vary by season and age)

10. 10. Exotic Animal Encounter

    The Exotic Animal Encounter at Chester Zoo is an exciting opportunity for visitors to learn about lesser-known species from around the globe. This special program often features animals like aardvarks, porcupines, or reptiles, which may be less visible in the larger exhibits. Each encounter is an intimate session with a zoo educator offering unique insights into the natural history, behaviors, and conservation of these intriguing creatures. Participants have the chance to ask questions and sometimes even touch or hold the animals under the guidance of the zoo staff, making for an educational and memorable experience. The Exotic Animal Encounter is designed to foster a connection between visitors and wildlife, highlighting the incredible diversity of the animal kingdom and the importance of every species in our world.

    Duration: Approximately 30 minutes · Price: Starting at £20 per person (additional to general admission, pre-booking required)