Heart of Africa is now open!
This immersive new habitat spans 22 acres and is the largest new area ever to open at the zoo. Whether it’s your first time or your fifth, there’s always something new to discover, so we’ve written a suggested itinerary to make the most of your visit.
Start the day right
Begin with breakfast at Bembe Kitchen, served until 11.30am. Sit outside, and you might just spot our Eastern black rhinos enjoying their own morning feed while you tuck into pancakes, waffles or a full Bembe breakfast.
Just beyond Bembe Kitchen, meet the playful meerkats! Peer through viewing domes for a more immersive view of their habitat. These curious animals are often sunbathing in this spot, so you could get an excellent, up-close view. Just next door, over 100 greater flamingos show off their striking plumage in a wetland aviary.
Beautiful birds and more
Wander through the tranquil Tsavo aviary to enjoy the peaceful, shaded walkways. This area is the perfect space for some reflection and perhaps getting some great photos of lilac-breasted rollers and hammerkops. There are also more African birds like the grey crowned crane and the beautiful black-cheeked lovebirds nearby.
Discover the wonder of the African Savannah and the science behind conservation
Keep an eye out for warthogs and Kirk’s dik-diks as you journey towards the mixed savannah, where Northern giraffes, zebras, roan antelope and ostriches roam together. This iconic landscape aims to demonstrate how these incredible animals coexist together. After visiting the giraffe house, see if you can spot the African wild dogs snoozing in their large new habitat. Within this space, don’t miss the immersive endocrinology lab, where you can get a closer look at the science behind animal care.
There's even more to explore
Heart of Africa has so much to experience beyond this suggested itinerary. Here are some of the other experiences you can enjoy.
Let the kids expend some energy on this African-themed play area.
These bubble waffles are proving a hit with our visitors!
Ugandan artist and conservation champion Philip Katabulawo painted a beautiful wildlife mural on the side of the Hidden Savannah building.
Relax in the beauty of the African savannah as you enjoy hand and pebble painting.
Explore Hidden Savannah
Past the rock hyraxes and aardvarks, you’ll discover the Hidden Savannah, an indoor habitat devoted to demonstrating the wonder of the often-unsung heroes of the savannah, and there are plenty of them! Come and learn about plum dung beetles, desert locusts and naked mole rats, who all play a vital role in the savannah’s ecosystem.
A bite to eat
After exploring for a while, stop for a well-earned break and a bite to eat. There are spots with great views on the mixed savannah platform for a picnic or something tasty from our seasonal food stalls in Pamoja Village.
Final stop: the vultures
Before you leave, make sure to visit our new vulture habitat. These fascinating birds are often misunderstood, but their role in the wild is vital. You’ll find an educational film nearby if you’d like to learn more.
With kids? Don't miss this
The Maasai Olympics activity is a big hit with children. Test your skills in games inspired by traditional Maasai strength and agility contests. This experience is great fun and a brilliant way to burn off some energy.
