Immerse yourself in an African savannah
Now open, this 22-acre habitat is the largest at the zoo, home to 57 species including giraffes, zebras, and ostriches.
Every visit supports vital conservation efforts to help Africa’s rarest species not only survive but thrive. As you explore, encounter a mixed savannah, vibrant African-inspired art, lush plants and breathtaking panoramic views. Each step connects you to the essential work we do to protect these extraordinary species and their wild homes.
Explore Heart of Africa
What's here?
Beautifully hand-painted giant eggs are hiding across the zoo, each one inspired by the unique markings of incredible African species. Can you find them?
You can see giraffes, zebras, ostriches and antelope roam together in a stunning mixed habitat observable from our new viewing platform.
Step into our Heart of Africa habitat this spring and help our Zoo Rangers on a mission to track down a life-sized pangolin puppet on the move.
Our Rangers will tell an interactive story of the Maasai Olympics, where visitors can participate in high jump, rungu throw and races.
Venture into the Hidden Savannah where you’ll encounter swarms of locusts, dung beetles and naked mole rats, plus striking species like the red spitting cobra, Ethiopian viper, and critically endangered African pancake tortoise.
In this interactive area, explore the science that shapes our conservation efforts.
The grassland ecosystem has been landscaped with fabulous plant life. Visitors will be able to learn about these wild habitats.
With pebble painting and hand art sessions, you can immerse yourself in a relaxing activity that reflects the beauty of the savannah.
Enjoy traditional family favourites, and some African-inspired eats at three fantastic locations, including our new Pamoja Village.
Let little ones become their favourite animals for a day at the zoo.
Let little explorers run wild in our new Heart of Africa adventure play area, a fun-filled space inspired by the landscapes of East Africa.
Wildlife stories from Heart of Africa
Hear about the work being done to protect African species both at the zoo and in the field.
Animals to see
Meet over 50 new and returning species in Heart of Africa.
Leave your mark, protect their future
Introducing Footprints for the Future: giraffe hoofprints. A unique way to support the conservation of giraffes, both here at Chester Zoo and across Africa.
With a £500 donation, your name - or the name of a loved one - will be engraved onto a beautifully crafted giraffe hoofprint plaque and displayed inside our brand-new giraffe house. The perfect way to donate to wildlife and protect giraffes.
Your support goes beyond the zoo. You’ll be standing with us on the frontline of conservation, helping to protect Northern giraffes in Uganda, a species on the brink of extinction. With fewer than 3,000 left in the wild, action must happen now.
Be part of this legacy. Help us safeguard the future of giraffes.
What's happening in Heart of Africa
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