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If I book or purchase more than one tour or encounter - do I get a discount?

We do not offer discounts for multiple tour/encounter purchases. However, if you make your booking online, you will receive an automatic $5 per person, per tour/encounter discount. (Even more for WOW tours) You also do not need to pay any extra for Zoo entry.
If you are a Silver, Gold or Platinum Member of the Zoo, you will receive between 15% - 25% off any tour bookings for both yourself and any accompanying guests. You will have to phone the Zoo to book, and quote your membership number.

Can I reserve a place for an encounter without payment?
No, full payment is required at the time of the booking. Once a booking is confirmed it can only by re-scheduled by phoning the zoo and speaking with a staff member. Please refer to our Terms and Conditions.

What happens if it rains?
A little bit of rain does not interrupt or prevent an encounter from going ahead. Cheetah enclosures have under-cover areas to prevent bad weather from interfering with your experience. In some cases, encounters may be re-scheduled due to heavy rain or postponed in the case of an electrical storm, as is legally required. To enquire about re-scheduling any tour or encounter, you will need to phone the zoo and talk with our staff. There are fees involved for rescheduling your booking.

I am doing the encounter by myself. Can someone come along with me to take photos?
Give your camera to the Keeper and they will be happy to take close up photos of you interacting with the Cheetah.

Can I take photos during the Encounter?
Yes, the Cheetah are used to cameras, including flash, just advise the Keeper before taking them. You can also bring a video camera if you desire.

Can I watch a friend or family member do the experience or take photos?
Accompanying guests need to pay general admission to the Zoo, but cannot be guaranteed a good view of the encounter. The enclosure is quite large and the cheetah may be in an area where the view is obscured. You can give your camera to the Keeper to ensure they get some great photos inside the enclosure.

Why do you say Doctors advise to limit contact with Cats when pregnant in the Indemnity and Release Form?
All cats, including domestic ones, carry Toxic Plasmosis in their Faeces, which may cause problems in the first Trimester of Pregnancy. You should get a Doctors advice before booking an encounter.

What shoes should I wear?
Flat soled walking shoes are ideal. Please avoid thongs and high heeled shoes. There is no restiction on colours in clothing.

My child is mentally/physically disabled, can s/he do the encounter?
Please view the Terms & Conditions via the product page of our website. Please also feel free to phone us with any concerns or queries.

What time should I arrive for my encounter?
Allow at least thirty minutes before the start time. However, participants are not required to pay any extra for Zoo admission, so you are encouraged to arrive as early as you like, and enjoy the park before your encounter.

Do I need to turn off my mobile during the encounter?
It is suggested you turn your mobile off. If it rings whilst you are inside the enclosure, it may cause problems.

My friend did the same encounter last month, will mine be exactly the same?
Animals can behave differently each day, so each encounter is unique.

My child is under 12 years old, but they are big for his/her age, can he/she do the Cheetah Encounter?
No. There are very strict age and height requirements for safety reasons.

Can I wear perfume?
Generally speaking, perfume will not have any effect one way or another.

I have long hair. Should I tie it back before interacting with the cheetahs?
Yes. Long hair should be tied back for safety reasons.

Is the encounter wheelchair accessible?
No. Many of the pathways and access areas used throughout tours are not accessible to wheelchairs. Please refer to our Terms and Conditions.

Can I bring my dog into the Zoo?
The National Zoo & Aquarium is an Authorised Quarantine Site, no pets are allowed on any part of the grounds, including the car park.


 
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