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Behind-the-Scenes Tours
Picture yourself face to face with a mandrill, feeding the meerkat mob, or getting a kiss from a sea lion. These are just a few of the exciting things that could happen on a Behind the Scenes Tour at the Houston Zoo. Join us as you take an unforgettable look at the Zoo from the inside out!How do I sign up?
Reservations can be made by e-mailing us at tours@houstonzoo.org or by calling 713-533-6550. Some tours need to be scheduled up to three business weeks in advance because of various factors that affect accessibility to animal areas.
Where can I visit Behind the Scenes?
The basic tour includes visits to your choice of one of the following areas:
Aquarium, Fischer Bird Garden, Tropical Bird House, Veterinary Clinic, Children’s Zoo (off exhibit area), Animal Commissary, Okapi, Meerkats, Grizzly Bears, Spectacled Bears, Orangutans, Mandrills, Sea Lions, Siamangs, Sifakas, Mangabeys, Babirusa, Guenons, Giraffes, Reptiles and Amphibians, African Wild Dogs, and Bongo, African Lions.
How old do I have to be?
With the exception of the Children’s Zoo, Giraffes, and Birds, behind the scenes tours are designed for children five years old and up.
For safety reasons, some areas have age restrictions, as well as an adult/child ratio.
How many people can take a tour Behind the Scenes with me?
That depends on the area you are visiting, but the maximum we can accommodate behind the scenes is 10 people Some areas are restricted to fewer guests per tour.
How long does a Behind the Scenes tour last?
Tours typically take 30 minutes per area.
What do these tours cost?
Zoo Members: start at $35/person per area
Non-Members: start at $50/person per area
Non-Members: start at $50/person per area
Some areas may be higher due to increased staffing needs
There is not a discount for children participating in the tour.
Groups larger than six people will be charged based on the price for six people.
Payment for your tour must be received at least 20 business days prior to the tour date. Tour prices include regular Zoo admission. For questions regarding Behind the Scenes tours, email us at tours@houstonzoo.org or call 713-533-6550.
