Wild Encounters

Wild Encounters are sponsored by GEICO Military

Get closer than you’ve ever imagined to some of your favorite Zoo residents! Wild Encounters are a 30 minute private experience with Zoo animals and an expert that can accommodate a group of up to five guests. Tickets include Zoo admission.

Pricing

2 Person Encounter: $250

3 Person Encounter: $300

4 Person Encounter: $350

5 Person Encounter: $400

Members receive $50 off

  • All participants must have COVID-19 vaccinations, show proof of vaccination, and wear a face mask. 
  • All participants must be 8 years of age or older.
  • All participants under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
  • All participants should wear closed-toe shoes.
  • Extra health and safety measures, such as gloves and/or temperature checks, may be required during your Encounter, and will be provided by the Zoo.

  • Participants will not touch animals during their encounter.
  • At this time, we are unable to accommodate service animals during Wild Encounters.
  • Tickets must be purchased online at least 72 hours in advance.
  • If you or a group member have a special need or mobility need, please contact us in advance.
  • Sold online only. All sales are final.
  • Available Wild Encounters are subject to change.
  • Please meet in the Education Complex for your Wild Encounter. 

Aquarium Adventure

Tuesdays & Saturdays at 2 p.m.

Shadow a Zoo keeper in the PPG Aquarium to see what it’s like to work with marine life from around the world. Aquarium Adventure animals will change daily, and may not be the same each time. You may meet a shark or explore with the stingrays – each encounter will be a different experience!

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Ambassador Animals

Tuesdays & Saturdays at 2 p.m.

Meet the Zoo’s most popular animal ambassadors up close. A variety of animals, representing more than 30 different species, are featured in the Zoo’s educational programs. A member of our knowledgeable education staff will guide your experience. Animals may include kinkajou, fennec foxes, or ball pythons. Specific animals will vary for each encounter.

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*There will be no available June dates. July will only have Saturdays available.

RED PANDAS

Tuesdays & Thursdays at 10 a.m.

Go nose-to-whisker with one of our most charming animals at the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium – the red panda. Step into a staff-only area to see what goes into their daily care and learn important conservation information about this unique species.

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Questions? Interested in virtual options? Contact us at wildencounters@pittsburghzoo.org