After Hours Explorer Package | The Reserve at Chester Zoo

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Step into a different world as the sun sets and experience the zoo like never before.

The After Hours Explorer package combines a luxurious overnight stay with rare access to the Heart of Africa and Hidden Savannah after the zoo has closed to the public.

As dusk falls, join our expert Rangers for a guided evening tour, witness how the animals settle for the night and hear captivating stories of the care they receive and the global conservation work they’re part of. With a limited number of 25 guests, this shared experience offers an intimate and unforgettable glimpse into the zoo at its most peaceful.

Your getaway comes with an overnight stay in your choice of lodge, a delicious breakfast the following morning, and a £25 dinner allowance per person - the perfect way to relax and savour the experience before your evening adventure begins.

At a glance

1-night luxury safari lodge stay with breakfast
Complimentary valet parking
2-day zoo pass with early access to Heart of Africa
Evening Ranger activities
A £25 per person dinner allowance
Exclusive Heart of Africa and Hidden Savannah tour

What's included

Valet parking and signature welcome drink

On arrival, you'll be welcomed by our valet team who will look after your luggage and bring it directly to your lodge, and your car will be taken to our private guest parking area. Then enjoy one of our signature drinks in the lounge whilst you're being checked in.

2-day zoo pass with early access

From the moment you arrive on Day 1, you'll be able to head straight into the zoo for the day via your private guest entrance into our Heart of Africa zone. Enjoy a day exploring where you'll meet some of the 500+ species we care for before heading back to The Reserve.

Explore the Heart of Africa zone of the zoo from 9am, a full hour earlier than general public access, and then access to the main zoo from 10am.

Breakfast and £25 per person dining allowance

Breakfast is included plus a £25 per person dining allowance at Amboseli restaurant on the first night of your stay, with stunning views across the terrace toward the lake. A menu full of dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients will be on offer and we guarantee your tastebuds will be popping by the last course. Visit the Tsavo Lounge or take in the views on the Lakeside Terrace for an aperitif before dinner from our signature drinks menu.

Evening Ranger Activities

Each evening, our expert Rangers host a relaxed programme of activities for you to enjoy at your own pace. From storytelling and creative crafts to animal talks and light-hearted quizzes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Inspired by life in the field, our storytelling sessions bring conservation to life in a warm and welcoming setting. Settle in, get comfortable, and hear fascinating insights into the animals in our care and the global work we support. And our Rangers are always on hand to chat and answer your questions throughout the evening.

Heart of Africa Tour and Hidden Savannah Tour

Experience the magic of our Heart of Africa zone and Hidden Savannah after hours. Join our expert rangers for an evening tour, where you’ll discover how our animals wind down for the night and hear stories about the incredible work our teams do to care for them. This shared tour is suitable for groups of up to 25 guests.

Want something different?

Bed & Breakfast Stay

With our Bed & Breakfast stay, enjoy an overnight break in the heart of the zoo, complete with a delicious breakfast to set you up for the day ahead.

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Animal Encounters VIP Experience

A minimum 2-night stay, The Animal Encounters VIP Experience offers every stunning moment of the After Hours Explorer package but with even more extraordinary wildlife and conservation experiences.

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Planning a Wedding or Corporate Event?

You can include a luxury stay in any of our safari lodges as part of your bespoke package

Our experienced events team will be happy to hear from you.

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Find the perfect lodge to match any of our packages

Choose from four stylish and luxurious lodge types to add the perfect base to any of our exclusive experience packages.

Whether you prefer a larger space with stunning lake views or the ultimate luxury with giraffes a few feet away we've got something to suit every need.

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