Wild Encounter - Western Lowland Gorilla

Guardians of Gorilla

Step behind the scenes of the gorilla habitat and meet one of our dedicated keepers. Learn all about these magnificent creatures and witness a feeding session up close. Discover the daily care and conservation efforts that go into protecting and nurturing our gorilla family.

Yearly Availability: May-October. Please note the last encounter of the 2025 season will be on October 11th. 

Capacity: 8

Experience Length: 30-45 minutes

Meeting Location: Penguin Habitat Entrance

Age Restrictions: Children aged 2 and under are not permitted on this Wild Encounter. Participants who do not meet the age requirement will not be permitted to join, and refunds will not be issued.

Age Recommendations: Recommended for ages 12+ 

Rules and Policies

Wild Encounter tickets do not include Zoo admission: Zoo admission must be purchased separately 

Guest Requirement: Each guest must wear a medical mask during their Wild Encounter supplied by zoo staff. Guests who refuse to wear a mask will not be permitted to attend, and refunds will not be issued. By purchasing tickets, you are agreeing to this policy.

Interaction: This encounter does not involve any interaction with our gorillas. It is up to the animals to choose to participate and we cannot guarantee the duration of time the animals will spend engaging with us. Staff also have the ability to deny feeding, or change the encounter based on the animals’ health, safety, and behavioural needs

Drugs & Alcohol: Impairment due to alcohol or drugs is not permitted before or during your Wild Encounter. Anyone who is drinking or appears to be even slightly intoxicated before the Wild Encounter will be denied participation. Refunds or alternate dates will not be given.

Adult Supervision: Children under the age of 12 years must be accompanied by a paying adult (at least 18 years of age)

Reschedule/Cancellation: By purchasing tickets, you are agreeing to the following refund policy. Exceptions will not be made. The Wild Encounters team requires at least 48 hours’ notice prior to your scheduled encounter to process any refund or rescheduling requests. Failure to attend your encounter at the scheduled date and time will result in forfeiture of your tickets, and refunds will not be issued. Please ensure you arrive at the designated meeting location before your scheduled start time. Late arrivals or guests who are unable to locate the meeting point will not be eligible for refunds. We recommend reviewing your confirmation details carefully and allowing extra time to navigate the Zoo. 

Strollers/Personal Items: Strollers/wagons are permitted to be brought behind-the-scenes stored in designated areas but may be left unattended at times. 

Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible. Guests with disabilities who require the assistance of a support person are encouraged to email us before making a reservation so we can provide the appropriate support and ensure the best possible Wild Encounter experience. At this time, service animals cannot be accommodated in behind-the-scenes areas. The Access 2 Card is accepted for support persons. 

Fees: A processing fee of $1.00 per ticket will be applied at checkout.

Please contact us at wildencounters@torontozo.com or call us at 289-200-4362 for more information.