Zoo Explorers is an exciting one-day course for children aged 5 to 7 years old at Whipsnade Zoo who are ready to explore and learn more about animals!
The Zoo Explorers course includes
- One day at Whipsnade Zoo for the participant
- Entry into the Zoo only for one adult
- A Zoo Explorers certificate of attendance
- A unique Zoo Explorers t-shirt
- A copy of all the photos taken on the course
This course provides children a chance to explore, investigate and enjoy the zoo. Supported by our engagement team, children will have the opportunity to engage in exciting animal themed activities, whilst also making new friends! Read a sample outline of the course below.
What to expect on the day
Participants will complete practical tasks on the Zoo Explorers course at Whipsnade Zoo which may include cleaning out enclosures and delivering food for various animals.
Participants will be dropped off outside the visitors’ centre at 10:15 into the care of the Engagement team. The course is designed for 10 children, and they will be constantly supervised throughout the day by members of the engagement team, including lunch and break times. Participants will be returned to the same meeting point at 2:15. Participants will only be released into the care of the authorised adult stated on their consent form.
Members of the engagement team will take pictures throughout the day to record the activities. These will then be sent out via email after the course.
Please note: Activities are subject to change due to animal availability and welfare needs. A detailed itinerary will be provided on the day of the course. You can find an example itinerary and a visual story for this course at the bottom of the web page.
2026 Dates
28 July
4 August
11 August
18 August
25 August
27 October
Book now
- The price per child is £90 (includes participant's entry into the Zoo and Zoo Explorers t-shirt).
- Please note, although the ticket price includes entry for one adult, students are left in the supervision of the zoo's engagement team for the duration of the course.
- ZSL Gold Members, Patrons and Fellows receive a 10% discount on this experience. Please login in at checkout with the email address attached to your membership to activate your discount.
Important information to know
We recommend participants wear comfortable clothing and shoes because the course involves walking throughout the day and being outside in all weathers. Clothes may also get messy so please dress appropriately.
Participants will need to bring their own packed lunch and drinks for the day of the course. We will not be visiting the zoo café at lunch time, so you will not be able to buy food during the course hours.
We recommend reading the Zoo Explorers FAQs at the bottom of this web page before booking or attending the course.
You will be provided with a parental consent form with your ticket which must be completed to confirm your place.
Terms and Conditions
- Places are sold on a first-come, first-served basis.
- If you need help to manage your booking or have any other queries about the course, please contact us using this form or email us at [email protected].
- Please see our full terms and conditions for more details.
