More than 20 years ago, we introduced you to our incredible Expedition Africa experience with opportunities to feed giraffes, kayak past an “African” veldt and take a train through an animal habitat.  

The adventure continues! 

On November 16, we’re opening the completed boardwalk loop to give you all new vistas of some of your favorite animals. You’ll also be able to see our three lion brothers Chobe, Karoo and Ruaha in their new permanent habitat!  

Years in the making, this spacious, open-air 15,150-square-foot habitat features multi-level climbing platforms, a temperature-controlled “chill pad,” a training wall and more that will encourage our lion trio to express their full range of natural behaviors. 

If that’s not quite enough, you’ll also be able to enjoy two new experiences: a new Okapi Encounter as well as a refreshed kayaking tour!   

During our Okapi Encounter, you’ll get a chance to meet one of the world’s most elusive animals. You’ll be able to get close to George the okapi to feed him some of his favorite treats and snap a special photo. You can even interact with George and pet his graceful neck.  

As with all our Encounter stars, George has full choice and control over whether he participates in the Encounter. Those special snacks and pats make it worth his while! Learn more or book your encounter.

Want another way to celebrate our lions’ new digs? We have some special activities for you to consider: 

• Bring friends and family of all ages on a scavenger-hunt adventure throughout the Zoo! Explore the world from a lion’s perspective with interactive activities and fun challenges in this self-paced safari. Participate on weekends and select holidays from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. 

• Join our Breakfast with the Big Cats with your family for a morning of delicious food while you create enrichment for Brevard Zoo’s big cats and create a piece of unique lion pawprint art to take home with you. This breakfast will be held Nov. 16, 23 and 30 from 9-10:30 a.m. This is a specially ticketed event that requires pre-registration – so be sure to book your tickets today!  

• ️Our Sunrise on the Savannah breakfast is an adults-only experience that lets you enjoy your morning coffee while getting a behind-the-scenes look at the care for our lions. Enjoy your catered breakfast as you learn more about these majestic cats Nov. 24 or Dec. 7 from 8-10 a.m. This is a specially ticketed event that requires pre-registration – so be sure to book your tickets today! 

Thank you, as always, for your continued support! Your membership, Zoo visits and donations make it possible for us to continue bringing new fun to the Zoo! 

Special thanks to Flammio Financial Group, Stifel-Garvin Wealth Management Group, Artemis IT, and Jim and Darleen Barfield. Their generosity makes our work possible! 

Brevard Zoo is an independent, not-for-profit organization that receives no recurring government funding for our operating costs. Your generous support enables us to continue to serve our community and continue our vital animal wellness, education and conservation programs.