National Zoo & Aquarium

Meet a tiger that you won’t forget!

The objective:

To have you wonder at the size of the tigers paw when they are centimetre’s from you, before being astonished by the size of his teeth! These big cats will leave an impression on you for you to carry a passion for their conservation.

The experience:

Meet with one of our Carnivore Keeping team to discover the unique abilities of such magnificent big cats. Learn about their diet as you feed an afternoon snack, as well as the care and enrichment we provide to ensure their wellbeing.

The impact:

 After being over-awed by being so close to an apex predator, you will leave understanding the threats facing wild tigers, while knowing there is hope for protecting their future. Take away an unforgettable encounter and a deeper appreciation for the wonders of the natural world.

The reason:

Tiger numbers are currently as low as 3,900 individuals, with only 400 of the critically endangered Sumatran Tigers remaining. The tiger’s main threat is humans, yet with in-situ conservation efforts showing positive results, we can save this amazing cat and the communities who live alongside them.

The outcome – $1,000,000!!

 Through tour and encounter revenue, during the last 3 years the National Zoo and Aquarium and Jamala Wildlife Lodge have donated over $1,000,000 in cash and kind to various animal conservation and welfare groups, along with charities, in Australia and worldwide. Your support of the encounters helps us maintain this and you can also donate directly to a number of animal causes by clicking on the link.

Special notes

You will be entering the home of our resident animals, so please understand that they have the right to participate or not participate in any encounter and their wishes will always take priority. The animals are not restrained in any way and are free to leave the encounter if they choose.

You will learn about the animals, their habits, habitats, special abilities and their vulnerability in the wild and how you can help them

Due to other precautions, there are no mask or vaccination requirements for participants on this tour or encounter. However, guides will wear masks when appropriate and guests are welcome to wear one.

 Zoo entry not included*

Due to other precautions, there are no mask or vaccination requirements for participants on this tour or encounter. However, guides will wear masks when appropriate and guests are welcome to wear one.

Tiger Encounter
Days Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday
Time 2:30 pm
Maximum People 4 people
Minimum Age 6 years (must be accompanied by a paying adult if under the age of 16)
Length 15 minutes
Adult Cost $65 per person weekdays or $85 Weekend and School/Public holidays. Zoo entry not included*
Child Cost $40 per person weekdays or $50 Weekend and School/Public holidays. Zoo entry not included*
Zoo Entry Fee *Zoo entry is not included in the price and must be purchased at an additional fee to participate in the encounter.
Booking Book an encounter today
Vouchers Buy a gift card here
Restrictions Please see Things You Need To Know
Questions? Please see our FAQs
“Tigers can reach a length of up to 3.3 metres and weigh as much as 300 kilograms.”
Scrivener Dam, Yarralumla, Canberra, ACT 2611

We are open every day except Christmas day 9.30am until 5.00pm

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