Looking for Capybara petting zoos near you? In this post, we’ll cover the best Capybara spots in the UK, featuring amazing zoos all over the country. If you’re like us, always seeking new and exciting ways to get up close and personal with our furry friends, then you’re in for a treat. We have embarked on a quest to uncover the best capybara experiences, where cherished memories and heartwarming moments await!
While this list has been updated during the autumn of 2023, offers frequently change. Check the zoo websites for the latest prices and offerings when it comes to booking Capybara experiences. Many of the animal encounter sessions are already getting sold for half term, so we recommend booking your experience sooner rather than later.
1. Shepreth Wildlife Park
Station Rd, Shepreth, Royston SG8 6PZ
Located in the scenic village of Shepreth, this wildlife park offers Capybaras experiences which is a great opportunity to also learn more about their behaviour and habitat. With its commitment to conservation and education, Shepreth Wildlife Park provides a memorable and educational experience for visitors of all ages. You can even adopt your own Capybara!
Check out these cool Capybata t-shirts on Etsy for just £6.74
2. Chew Valley Animal Park
Coombe Hay Lane, Chew Magna, Bristol BS40 8QU
Nestled in the picturesque Chew Valley, this Capybara petting zoo offers visitors animal experiences with their spiny occupants. Interact with these gentle creatures and witness their playful nature in a serene and family-friendly environment. Caypbara experience sessions cost £60 per person.
3. Chester Zoo
Chester CH2 1EU
One of the UK’s most renowned zoos, Chester Zoo provides a wide array of captivating Capybare experiences. Head over to the designated Capybara area and enjoy the opportunity to pet and observe these intriguing creatures in a setting that fosters their natural behaviour. Buying a Capybara adoption pack costs £45.
4. Drusillas Park
Alfriston Rd, Berwick, Polegate BN26 5QS
Situated in East Sussex, Drusillas Park boasts a range of animal experiences for visitors to enjoy. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Capybaras and discover their friendly personalities while gaining insight into their habitat and conservation. A close encounter Capybare experience package costs £90 for one person or £135 for two. The minimum age is 5 years old.
5. Hobbledown Heath
Hobbledown, Horton Ln, Horton, Epsom KT19 8PT
Offering a unique adventure playground and animal experiences, Hobbledown Heath is a must-visit destination for Capybara enthusiasts. Pet, feed, and learn more about these fascinating creatures in a family-friendly environment that combines education and entertainment seamlessly. Feed the Capybara experiences cost £35 per person. Suitable for children aged 6+.
6. Jimmy’s Farm
Pannington Hall Ln, Wherstead, Ipswich IP9 2AR
Nestled in the beautiful Suffolk countryside, Jimmy’s Farm is home to a variety of animal experiences, including the lovable Capybaras. Engage with these creatures in a picturesque setting while immersing yourself in the farm’s friendly and welcoming atmosphere. Booking a Capybara experience costs £65 per person.
7. Yorkshire Wildlife Park
Warning Tongue Ln, Branton, Doncaster DN4 6TB
Situated in Doncaster, Yorkshire Wildlife Park provides an immersive experience with animals from around the world. Visit the dedicated Capybara enclosure to interact with these gentle giants and gain a deeper understanding of their captivating traits.
8. Beale Park
Lower Basildon, Reading RG8 9NW
Beale Park, located near the River Thames, offers an enriching experience for animal lovers. Explore the park’s captivating animal collection, including the endearing Capybaras, and delight in the opportunity to observe and interact with these remarkable creatures.
9. Cotswold Wildlife Park
Bradwell Grove, Burford OX18 4JP
Nestled in the stunning Cotswolds countryside, Cotswold Wildlife Park is a haven for animal enthusiasts. Immerse yourself in the wonders of nature as you visit the Capybaras at this renowned wildlife park. Wander through the park’s lush grounds and take delight in watching these charismatic creatures as they go about their daily activities.
10. Dudley Zoo
Castle Hill, Dudley DY1 4QF
Dudley Zoo is a historic and charming destination that offers a range of captivating animal experiences. Visit the Capybara exhibit to meet these lovable creatures up close and personal, while also exploring the zoo’s extensive collection of wildlife from around the globe.
11. Newquay Zoo
Trenance Gardens, Newquay TR7 2LZ
Nestled on the picturesque Cornish coast, Newquay Zoo provides a memorable experience for animal lovers of all ages. Make your way to the Capybara enclosure, where you can observe and interact with these social animals while surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of Cornwall.
12. Blackpool Zoo
East Park Dr, Blackpool FY3 8PP
Situated in the vibrant coastal town of Blackpool, Blackpool Zoo is home to an array of captivating creatures. Discover the delightful Capybaras and learn more about their unique behaviours and adaptations as you explore the zoo’s extensive grounds.
13. Exmoor Zoo
South Stowford, Bratton Fleming, Barnstaple EX31 4SG
Located amidst the picturesque landscapes of North Devon, Exmoor Zoo provides a captivating experience for visitors. Head over to the Capybara exhibit and marvel at these charismatic creatures as you discover interesting facts about their natural habitat and conservation efforts.
14. Chessington Zoo
Leatherhead Rd, Chessington KT9 2NE
Chessington Zoo, nestled within Chessington World of Adventures Resort grounds, offers a delightful adventure for animal enthusiasts. Explore the zoo’s diverse collection and make your way to the Capybara enclosure to observe and interact with these adorable creatures.
Update: Chessington Zoo currently does not offer Capybara experiences.
15. Cumbria Safari Zoo
Melton Ter, Lindal in Furness, Ulverston LA12 0LU
Located near Ulverston, Cumbria Safari Zoo boasts a spacious walk-through enclosure housing various animals that you can feed. Simply purchase bags of food at the front desk and get ready for an interactive animal experience. Among the captivating residents, you’ll find emus, marmots, kangaroos, and lemurs. However, the real stars of the show are the five exceptionally friendly capybaras. They eagerly enjoy a gentle back tickle as they feed from your hand. If you’re a devoted capybara enthusiast, this destination is an absolute must-visit.
While you can also book a separate animal experience, the capybara walk-through is part of standard admission. When you pay at the front desk they ask if you would like to purchase a bag of animal food (£1.50) for the walk-through area.
How much does a Capybara experience cost?
The cost of a capybara experience varies a lot. From our research based on 14 Zoos in the UK, prices range from £35 to £125 per person. Some venues may offer packages or discounts for families or groups.
Are Capybaras friendly?
Absolutely! Capybaras are renowned for their friendly and sociable disposition. They are highly social animals and often enjoy interacting with humans and other animals. Their gentle nature makes them approachable and comfortable to be around, making them a popular choice for those seeking an amiable animal companion or an enjoyable petting zoo experience.
However, as with any animal, it’s important to approach capybaras with respect, adhere to proper guidelines, and consider individual personalities, as some capybaras may be more reserved or cautious in their interactions.
Are there any Capybara Petting Zoos near London?
The best Capybara petting zoos close to London are Shepreth Wildlife Park, Chessington Zoo and Hobbledown Heath. These three zoos are all within one hour of travelling from central London, perfect for a full day out with the family. If you are willing to travel up to two hours from London, you should also consider Chew Valley Animal Park, Chester Zoo, Drusillas Park and Jimmy’s Farm. Note that London Zoo in Regent’s Park does not have Capybaras.
Can You Keep a Capybara as a Pet in the UK?
While capybaras are undeniably adorable, keeping them as pets in the UK comes with some considerations and regulations. In general, capybaras are classified as exotic pets, which means there are specific rules you need to follow. Under the Dangerous Wild Animals Act 1976, you’ll need to obtain a license from your local council to legally keep a capybara as a pet.
Getting a license involves demonstrating that you have the right facilities and knowledge to care for these unique creatures. It’s all about ensuring their well-being! So, before you start daydreaming about cuddling with a capybara at home, it’s important to do your research and reach out to your local authorities. They can provide you with the necessary information and guidance to make an informed decision about Capybara ownership as a pet.
Remember, the regulations are in place to protect both capybaras and their potential owners,
How much does a Capybara cost in the UK?
The cost of a capybara in the UK can vary depending on several factors. On average, acquiring a capybara as a pet can range from £1,000 to £5,000 or more. However, it’s essential to note that the initial purchase price is just one aspect of the overall cost of owning a capybara.
Additional expenses to consider include habitat setup, veterinary care, specialized diet, maintenance, and potential licensing fees required by local authorities. As capybaras have specific needs and require ample space and socialization, ensuring their welfare can involve significant ongoing expenses.
Before considering purchasing a capybara, it’s crucial to thoroughly research the costs involved and be prepared for the financial commitment required to provide a suitable and enriching environment for these unique animals.
How to approach Capybaras?
During Capybara experience sessions, these lovely animals display their friendly and sociable nature, making the experience truly delightful. Capybaras are known to be gentle and tolerant, allowing visitors to interact with them in a safe and supervised environment. With the guidance of experienced animal caretakers, visitors can approach these adorable creatures, offer them tasty treats, and even have the opportunity to stroke their soft fur.
Capybaras may exhibit curiosity, sniffing and investigating their surroundings, while also enjoying the attention and interaction with humans. These animal experience sessions provide a unique chance to create memorable moments and develop a deeper appreciation for the fascinating world of Capybaras.
Tips when bringing children to Capybara experiences
When bringing children to a Capybaras experience, it’s important to prioritize their safety and ensure a positive experience for both the children and the animals. Here are some valuable tips:
- Supervision: Always supervise children closely during the animal experience session. Ensure they follow the instructions provided by the zoo staff or caretakers to ensure the safety of both the children and the Capybaras.
- Gentle Interaction: Teach children to approach the Capybaras calmly and gently. Encourage them to use soft, slow movements and avoid any sudden or rough gestures that may startle or distress the animals.
- Respect Boundaries: Explain to children the importance of respecting the personal space of the Capybaras. Remind them not to pull, grab, or chase the animals, and to refrain from touching them without proper guidance or permission from the zoo staff.
- Hand Hygiene: Emphasize the significance of hand hygiene before and after interacting with the Capybaras. Encourage children to wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water or use hand sanitisers provided by the zoo to prevent the spread of germs.
- Listening to Zoo Staff: Encourage children to listen attentively to the instructions and guidance provided by the zoo staff or caretakers. They are knowledgeable about the behaviour and needs of the Capybaras and can provide valuable information to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Gifts for Capybara Lovers
If you’re anything like us, you might have been a bit disappointed finding out that it’s really difficult to keep Capybaras as a pet in the UK (unless you apply for a license from your local council). So for now, we need to settle for a whole lot of capybara gear! Here is a selection of really cool gifts for capybara fans:
Capybara plush toys
Infuse a dash of charm with a capybara plush soft toy. This adorable companion is sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face as they embark on their writing journey. Whether perched on a desk or nestled on a bookshelf, this cuddly capybara is a delightful reminder of creativity’s playful side.
Starting around a fiver you can choose from several capybara plush toys on Amazon. These adorably cute capybara teddies are a delightful addition to any child’s soft toy collection. With sizes from 20cm to 40cm, these plush toys are perfect for carrying around and provide comforting cuddles at any time of day.
The Capybaras – Children’s Book
For children ages 4-8, “The Capybaras” by Alfredo Soderguit is a charming and hilarious tale about capybaras: the beloved animal sensation capturing children’s hearts! This delightful story shares the importance of opening our hearts to each other, no matter our differences, and the marvellous surprises that can happen along the way.
Capybara Coloring Book
This Capybara colouring book isn’t just a collection of pages; it’s a gateway to creative expression and relaxation. Whether you’re gifting it to a child eager to explore the art of colouring or an adult seeking moments of tranquillity, “Capybara Coloring Book” is a treasure trove waiting to be discovered—one vibrant stroke of colour at a time.
Final Thoughts
As we conclude our exploration of capybara petting zoos in the UK, we hope you’ve been inspired to embark on your own journey to meet these captivating creatures. The experience of interacting with capybaras is nothing short of enchanting, leaving a lasting impression on visitors of all ages.
By supporting these petting zoos, not only do we gain the chance to connect with these gentle giants, but we also contribute to the vital conservation efforts that protect and raise awareness about capybaras and their habitats. Through educational programs and responsible animal care, these zoos play a crucial role in fostering appreciation and understanding of these remarkable animals.
Remember, when visiting a Capybara petting zoo, always follow the rules and guidelines provided to ensure the safety and well-being of both visitors and animals. Respect the boundaries set by the staff and interact with the capybaras in a gentle and respectful manner.
Whether you find yourself marvelling at the capybaras’ peaceful nature, their playful interactions, or simply their adorably pudgy appearances, one thing is certain—the experience will leave you with cherished memories and a newfound appreciation for these furry ambassadors of the animal kingdom.
So, embrace the opportunity to experience capybaras up close, and let the joy and wonder of these amazing creatures captivate your heart. From the laughter-filled moments shared with friends and family to the awe-inspiring encounters that bring you closer to nature, a visit to a capybara petting zoo in the UK promises to be an unforgettable adventure that will leave you with a warm smile and a lasting connection to these lovable creatures.
As you venture forth on your Capybara quest, we wish you a magical and joyous experience. May your encounters with these remarkable animals fill your heart with wonder, compassion, and a renewed commitment to preserving the beauty of our natural world.
Go forth and embrace the capybara charm—the journey awaits!
