Hyena Encounter

Come face to face with our clan of inquisitive spotted hyenas, Africa’s most misunderstood mammals. 

During our NEW hyena encounter you’ll learn all about these incredible creatures, hand feed our three spotted hyena, and come face to face with these specialised carnivores for some photos.  

A Sydney Zoo hyena encounter makes for an unforgettable experience with friends and family.  Book early to avoid disappointment.

How to book

Call us on 02 7202 2560, or email our team at experiences@sydneyzoo.com to reserve your spot now.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION:

• Please check-in at the information desk at the zoo entrance at least 30 minutes prior to your scheduled encounter time. Encounters go ahead on time as scheduled.
• Hyena encounter bookings do not include zoo entry. Please ensure you purchase an entry ticket or book your visit in the My Account portal.
• As a covid safe precaution, a face mask is required to be worn at all times during the encounter.
• Anyone aged 16 or over will need to show a government-approved proof of COVID-19 vaccination or medical contraindication form to participate in the encounter.
• Hyena encounters are held once per week at 12:30pm for a maximum group size of 4.
• Minimum age of 12 applies and all children must be comfortable in the presence of animals.
• All participants up to 16 years must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
• The encounter runs in all weather conditions. We recommend wet weather attire on wet days. Sydney Zoo reserves the right to cancel the encounter in extreme weather conditions.
• Hyena encounter inclusions: A keeper talk, one-on-one hyena encounter and photos taken by our zookeeper with your phone.
• Fitness requirements: You should be able to stand and move freely and be able to walk to the animal habitat which is a 500m distance. Participants will be required to walk over sandy and rocky areas.
• This encounter is suitable for people with some forms of compromised mobility. Please call us on 02 7202 2560 to discuss if this encounter is suitable.
• Clothing requirements: For your comfort and safety, please wear enclosed footwear suitable for varied surfaces and to provide safety in the habitat. Visually ostentatious garments (i.e. costumes, novelty hats etc.) are not permitted.
• Guests will be required to agree to encounter rules and sign a waiver form on the day.
• Encounter bookings are non-refundable. Any changes to your booking must be made at least 7 days prior to your visit date. Please call us on 02 7202 2560.