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African Forest Venues
With 6.5 acres newly available, The African Forest offers many new entertaining possibilities. Whether you are celebrating an occasion personal to you, or are planning a corporate event, large or small, the effect is sure to be WOW in the setting of equatorial Africa.
One of the hottest places to entertain in Houston, there are several spots throughout this brand new environment that can serve as an event space.
The Chimp Viewing Building
The most likely hot spot will be in the Chimpanzee Viewing Building, where your guests will be enthralled by the most picturesque setting in Houston. A long expanse of windows provides a clear view into the chimps’ nearly half an acre habitat, where our family of ten chimpanzees play. Lucky guests may get a close-up view that is literally nose-to-nose through the glass with these incredible apes. This new climate-controlled building, complete with restrooms, will be all yours for the night.
Twiga Terrace Resturant:
For your private party, this brand new restaurant may be just the thing. It has a French Colonial feel, with soaring ceilings, arch top windows graced with Bermuda shutters, decorative brackets, and terra cotta tile roofing. Utilize the inside, the outside terraces or both. Our herd of friendly, elegant Masai giraffes are in full view from the back, while our trio of white rhinos and greater kudus in their savanna-style habitat are seen from the front terrace.
The African Forest Plaza
Just across the path from Twiga Terrace Restaurant is the Shani Market, where the same design influence is found in the details --arched pediments over the doorway and sculpted French columns. Between the two artful buildilngs there is a wide expanse to use for your party -- perhaps for cocktails or dancing. This area can be used on its own, or as an expansion of one fo the restaurant terraces.
The Forest Village
When you first enter The African Forest, you follow a path through a rock portal, emerging in an open area that is home to the Trading Post and a nature-based travel camp. Upon entering the forest beyond, you will find yourself immersed in the exotic sounds and smells of the jungle leading to a Baka Pygmy Village of small, round, leaf-covered huts and a central fire pit. Whether you utilize all of this area or just the village, it's a most exotic location for just the right sized group.
The Entire African Forest
If desired, you can utilize the entire African Forest itself, a truly magnificent space with three distinct animal habitats, and spots in addition to those mentioned here, throughout a lush forest setting. Working with our event staff, you can get really creative with all that the African Forest uniquely has to offer.
The best part about using the Houston Zoo for your event is that it is all turn-key. Our dedicated staff of event professionals will take care of all of your party needs, and the Houston Zoo’s own Chef Shane will help prepare a feast that meets your culinary needs.
