San Antonio Zoo is providing a sneak peek of its savanna habitat expansion, bringing a new kind of experience to the zoo. Guests will witness the savanna come alive with a harmonious habitat of species, just as it does in the landscapes of Africa.
The newly expanded savanna combines the former elephant habitat with the existing giraffe savanna, resulting in a 126% increase in habitat space. The new and improved habitat showcases a diverse array of species, including reticulated giraffes, plains zebras, sitatungas, dama gazelles, ostriches, white storks, marabou storks and East African crowned cranes.
The new savanna will feature a large new two-story barn for giraffes that will allow guests to view giraffes, even when they are inside. This expanded barn also provides the needed space for the zoo to add more giraffes and begin a breeding program for the species in their care, the reticulated giraffe.
A new elevated walkway will take guests on a new path through the savanna directly alongside the historic quarry walls, offering first-time-ever views for visitors.
Via Savanna Crossing, a crossing that allows animals to roam between the giraffe savanna and rhino savanna, rhinos will also be expanded. This expansion into the giraffe yard will allow rhinos to move from their current habitat and explore a portion of the giraffe yard. This new feature will also allow other savanna species, such as zebra, gazelles, sitatungas and birds, to move between both savanna habitats.
The expanded savanna also introduces a unique new feature – a private, rentable lodge called Spekboom Lodge, nestled within this majestic habitat, granting guests the unparalleled opportunity to reserve an overnight stay in the heart of the savanna. The lodge will feature incredible views, a primary suite, a kitchenette, a living area, kid bunk beds and a private outdoor patio. This exclusive overnight experience is the only one of its kind with giraffes at an AZA-accredited zoo in Texas.
“The celebration of the grand opening of our new entrance hasn’t even ended! However, the zoo’s growth, pace and improvements continue with this next incredible expansion, ” exclaimed Tim Morrow, President & CEO of San Antonio Zoo. “Guests will be able to view and explore the savanna in entirely new ways, offering first-time-ever views and even more animals to observe and learn about.”
Nestled within the historic rock quarry walls of San Antonio Zoo, this expansive habitat showcases the zoo’s dedication to preserving the natural environment while offering an unforgettable encounter with wildlife. The construction of the savanna takes advantage of the preexisting rock walls, which were a byproduct of the quarry for the San Antonio Portland Cement Company in the early 1900s.
The expanded savanna at San Antonio Zoo is set to open in 2024. Visitors can look forward to a remarkable journey through diverse ecosystems and an up-close encounter with some of Africa’s most iconic species.
