The Glow of the Season Returns with ZOOLIGHTS
As winter nights grow longer, the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo lights up once more with ZOOLIGHTS, presented by Olympia Trust Company.
Read MoreAfrican Rainforest Building: The African Rainforest Building will be closed on Tuesday, December 9th, to accommodate replacement of a glass pane. Thank you for your understanding.
African Rainforest Building: The African Rainforest Building will open at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, December 10th, and Thursday, December 11th, to give our western lowland gorilla troop the space, comfort, and privacy they need as they meet their newest member, ‘Johari’. Thank you for your understanding.
Seasonal Closures
Gorilla Amphitheatre: The Gorilla Amphitheatre is closed for the season from October 15th, 2025. Our gorilla troop remains viewable in their indoor habitat.
Prehistoric Park: Prehistoric Park is closed for the season from October 27th, 2025, pending favorable weather conditions.
PETRONAS Gateway to Asia Malayan Tapir Viewing: ‘Sempurna’ and her calf will have daily access to the main indoor habitat from 10:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m. They’ll also have access to their behind-the-scenes space and may choose to spend time there, especially when the calf is nursing, so viewing isn’t always guaranteed. Thank you for your understanding.
Protecting our Birds: Updates Effective October 31
Our Animal Care, Health & Welfare (ACHW) team has downgraded our Avian Influenza threat level.
Please note the following changes effective today:
Our dedicated ACHW team will continue to monitor the situation and prioritize the health and well-being of the animals in our care. Thank you for your understanding and continued support as we work to keep the animals we all care about safe.
Exploration Asia
The Exploration Asia Redevelopment project is officially underway! While there are some viewing impacts in the area, you can still visit many of your favourite species.
Due to significant construction activities in and around Exploration Asia, the zoo’s West Gate will remain closed for the 2025 season and is expected to remain closed until at least 2028/2029. This necessary step supports the safe movement of visitors while we undertake exciting improvements to animal habitats and visitor experiences.
Announcements
Zoo Closure Alert: The Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo will be closed to the public (including members and day admission) on Thursday, September 19th, 2024.
Why? We’re thrilled to host the annual conference of the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA), which runs from September 14-19 at the BMO Centre here in Calgary! This prestigious event is the largest and most comprehensive gathering of zoo and aquarium professionals in North America. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore over 150 educational sessions, discover industry successes, experience the latest technology, and connect with 2,000+ passionate professionals dedicated to protecting and saving species.
While the conference spans several days, the zoo will only be closed to the public on September 19th as we welcome conference attendees for a special day at the zoo. It’s the first time in 40 years the conference is being held in Canada, and we’re excited to showcase our beautiful city, province, and incredible zoo with colleagues and professionals from around the world. Our standard hours of operation will resume on Friday, September 20th. Thank you for your understanding!