Want to play tug-of-war with a lion, feed lunch to a giraffe, and get up-close with kangaroos? Riyadh Zoo hosts unforgettable wildlife encounters galore: it’s home to over 1,300 animals, from big cats and toothy crocodiles, to rhinos, elephants and Arabian oryx.
Now, as part of Riyadh Season 2022, Riyadh Zoo presents six exciting themed zones to explore, and a wealth of amazing experiences and sights. These are the ones you won’t want to miss – the best things to do at Riyadh Zoo.
Have lunch with giraffes
It’s lunchtime in the Enchanted Forest, and the giraffes need feeding – with your help! Grab a handful of greenery from the rangers, and come face-to-face with these gentle giants in their enclosure. This leafy zone also includes some of the world’s most endangered species, such as Arabian oryx and African elephants, as well as deer, llamas and more.
Feed the white tigers
The giraffes aren’t the only hungry ones – the white tigers want their lunch too, but are you brave enough to feed them? Led by their expert rangers, this experience is definitely not for the faint hearted. It’s located in The Swamp zone, where you can also watch Bengal tigers through a thrilling glass tunnel, and spot crocodiles lurking in the water.
Hang with the monkeys and chimps
You’ll have a swinging time at Ape Escape, the zone full of monkeys, orangutans and chimpanzees. Maybe you’ll help the rangers to feed the animals, or learn all about apes in the orangutan-themed ‘House of Pongo’? It’s always fascinating to witness the chimps in action, with their playful personalities and quirky habits.
Meet the flamingos
With their fuschia feathers, the Pink Lake’s flamingos always look fabulous, surrounded by tranquil waters and tropical foliage. Look out for the exotic parrots in this area too, and the whiskery sea lions wallowing in the shallows. At the nearby House of Turtles, you can learn all about these super-cute reptiles, and even interact with them too.
Stroke the kangaroos
Be warned: you’ll fall in love with the bouncy kangaroos, especially when you help the rangers to feed them. These characterful critters live in Al Malaz Bay, a zone named after the zoo’s historic neighbourhood. As well as the ‘roos, you’ll find strutting ostriches and rare local birds here too, plus nocturnal beauties in the Owl House.
‘Drive’ into the lion enclosure
Feeling adventurous? Don’t miss the lions’ house in the Enchanted Forest, with only a glass wall between you and those fearsome big cats. For an awesome photo opportunity, sit in the 4×4 car that looks like it’s inside the enclosure – the shots will drive your Instagram followers wild!
See who’s strongest – you or the lions?
Think you’re stronger than a lion? Or just want to experience the power of an apex predator, without ending up as its dinner? In The Swamp zone, look out for the ‘Lion Tug-of-War’, an intense battle between human and beast, with the steely-eyed big cats as your opponent. It’s the ultimate challenge, and an experience you’ll never forget.
Fuss the furry residents of The Farm
With its squawking chickens, mooing cows and bleating sheep, The Farm zone is full of life. Just like a real farm, there are plenty of ways to get hands-on with the animals, whether you’re petting the goats, stroking the rabbits or feeding the ducks. A fun experience for children, and a great way to calm your nerves after meeting the lions!
Riyadh Zoo is one of the key venues of Riyadh Season 2022 – held from October 2022 to March 2023. For more details, see our ultimate guide to Riyadh Season 2022. Riyadh Zoo tickets are priced SAR10 for adults and SAR5 for children (aged three to 10), available via riyadhseason.sa.
