Discover the tuatara, one of nature's greatest survivors.
Go behind the scenes in our Tropical Realm and uncover the incredible story of the tuatara - a species so ancient they lived alongside the dinosaurs! Today, these remarkable reptiles survive only on a few remote islands in New Zealand, fiercely protected and rarely seen by people.
Chester Zoo is the only zoo in the UK - and one of just a handful worldwide - to care for these living fossils.
Now, for the very first time, you can get closer than ever before. Join one of our expert reptile keepers and venture inside a specially created habitat, designed to mirror the natural conditions and seasonal changes of their native home.
You'll uncover the extraordinary story of the tuatara - how they defied mass extinctions, how Chester Zoo became the first outside New Zealand to successfully breed them, and how our conservation work is helping secure their future.
You'll even help to serve food to the tuatara - offering a real glimpse into the daily care of one of earth's oldest surviving species.
Please note: This is a keeper-led experience, designed to give you an authentic glimpse into the world of a tuatara keeper. For the welfare of these ancient reptiles there is no direct handling or contact to ensure their continued wellbeing.
1 people
Maximum of 1 person per experience.
16+
Suitable for ages 16 and over.
20 minutes
Members discount
Our members get an exclusive discount on experiences when they book in person or over the phone.
Tuataras provide an incredible window into our planet’s prehistoric past. Having somehow survived for around 200 million years, these unique animals are crucial to our understanding of reptilian evolution.
Karen Lambert, Lead Keeper
Everything you need to know about the Tuatara Experience
By purchasing this experience, you're not just creating lasting memories - you're directly supporting vital conservation efforts for species across Oceania, both here at Chester Zoo and in the wild.
Thank you for making a difference.
Key information
- £125
- Available on Mondays and Saturdays from May to September.
- Includes full day zoo admission for the participant.
What to expect
Explore what this experience has to offer:
How to combine your Tuatara Experience with a visit
Terms and conditions
- Zoo admission is included for the participant only.
- The experience is for one participant per session, aged 16 years or over.
- Participants must be comfortable in warm, humid environments and able to handle live food items, such as insects.
- Participants must be physically fit and mobile, able to walk unaided, stand for the full duration of the experience, climb steps, walk over uneven ground, and crouch, bend, and squat without difficulty.
- Regrettably, certain guests may not be able to take part, including
- Individuals with relevant phobias (e.g. of reptiles or insects)
- Individuals with known allergies
- Immunocompromised individuals
- Expectant mothers
- Whilst we strive to accommodate guests with disabilities or additional needs wherever possible, due to the practical health and safety requirements of this experience, participation may not always be possible. Please contact Chester Zoo before booking to discuss any accessibility needs.
- The Tuatara Experience is available on Mondays and Saturdays from May to September.
- Please note: to ensure the welfare of the tuataras, no direct handling or contact is permitted during the experience.