STEP INTO THE WORKING WORLD OF THE ZOO…
Experience what it’s like to be a zookeeper at the Edmonton Valley Zoo in this hands-on, behind-the-scenes Hoofstock Zoobuilder. This 60-minute experience puts you side by side with our animal care team offering an up-close look at the work that goes into caring for our ungulates.
MEET OUR BACTRIAN CAMELS
Step inside our camel habitat for an exclusive behind-the-scenes where you’ll see how zookeepers prepare, train, and interact with these remarkable animals as part of their daily care. You’ll gain a rare glimpse into the trust and communication built through positive reinforcement.
Here, you’ll meet our Bactrian camels and see just how intelligent, expressive, and engaging they are up close. Along the way, you’ll also learn what makes the Bactrian camel so unique, including their adaptations to extreme environments and the challenges they are designed to withstand.
You’ll also discover the importance of the wild camel (Camelus ferus), one of the most endangered large mammals on the planet, along with why protecting these species matters and how conservation efforts help safeguard their future.
The highlight of your visit is the opportunity to feed one of our camels alongside our animal care team, creating an unforgettable, up-close moment you won’t soon forget.
A BONUS BEHIND THE SCENES ADVENTURE
The Hoofstock Zoobuilder includes a second surprise stop, chosen by your zookeeper the day-of which may include: delivering enrichment to our takin; meeting our reindeer; or touring our Northern Leopard Frog Trailer.
No two experiences are exactly the same, and each option offers a different perspective on animal care and conservation work happening at the Edmonton Valley Zoo.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
This experience offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at animal care areas that are not typically designed for public access. Because of the working nature of these spaces, the experience is not fully accessible for all mobility needs.
The program takes place entirely outdoors and involves walking for extended periods across uneven terrain, including natural ground surfaces, gravel, and back-of-house pathways.
Guests are required to wear their own sturdy, closed-toe footwear suitable for outdoor conditions.
Please also note that participants may be exposed to common environmental allergens, including seasonal outdoor allergens, as well as camel dander and fur, and wood or mulch dust found in animal care areas.
NEW! AVIAN INFLUENZA SAFETY PROTOCOL: For the safety of our animals, we require guests to refrain from handling or interacting with any birds (wild or domestic) within 24 hours before their program. We also kindly ask that guests wear clean clothing and footwear that has not recently been in contact with avian species or environments, such as farms, aviaries, or sanctuaries.
Photography allowed with personal devices and equipment.
AGE REQUIREMENTS
The minimum age for participation is 13 years old. Guests under 18 must be accompanied by a paying adult or guardian aged 18 or older at a one-to-one ratio (for example, two participants under 18 must be accompanied by two paying adults). All participants must be able to take part in an active, walking-based experience that involves extended periods on foot over uneven terrain and must be able to follow verbal instructions from animal care staff throughout the program.
AVAILABILITY & ADDITIONAL EXPERIENCE NOTES
This is a seasonal, limited-capacity offering available exclusively during July and August on Fridays and Saturdays only, with a 9:00 am start time. Two sessions are available each week throughout the season. ZooBuilder experiences are 60 minutes in length.
This booking is for one private group with a maximum of four (4) people, including adults and children. For animal and guest safety, additional guests cannot be accommodated. If more than 4 people arrive, any guests exceeding the 4-person limit will not be permitted to participate, so please ensure your final group size is limited to 4 guests before booking.
Programming is subject to change based on daily animal care needs and operational requirements.
A 1-2 person encounter is $250; a 3-4 person encounter is $500. When you donate through the ZooBuilder Program, your contribution directly supports future zoo projects. Your generosity helps improve animal habitats and ensures that future generations of Edmonton families can continue to enjoy and learn from the zoo. The Valley Zoo Development Society is deeply grateful for your support.
TERMS & CONDITIONS
The safety of our animals, guests, and staff is our top priority. By checking the “I agree” box prior to purchase, you acknowledge that you have read, understand, and agree to comply with the following Terms & Conditions. If you are unable to agree to these terms at this time, please contact us to discuss your concerns or consider rebooking your experience for a future date.
ALLERGIES
If you have any allergies that we should be aware of, please list them in advance so we can better accommodate you during your visit. Our goal is to make your experience as safe and enjoyable as possible.
SPECIAL REQUESTS
Please let us know if you have any special requests while you are enjoying your encounter. Special requests include things like planning a proposal, birthday surprises, etc. Please note that while we cannot grant every request made, we do our best to make your dream a reality.
TAX RECIEPTS
For a 1–2 person encounter, you will receive a $150.00 tax receipt for your $250.00 donation.
For a 3–4 person encounter, you will receive a $370.00 tax receipt for your $500.00 donation.
