African Rainforest Aviary Pool Cleaning: The African Rainforest Aviary will be closed on Wednesday, April 1st, to accommodate pool cleaning. Guests are still welcome to explore the rest of the African Rainforest Building, with both entry and exit through the main doors. 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 favourable weather conditions.
PETRONAS Gateway to Asia Malayan Tapir Viewing: ‘Sempurna’ and her calf 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.
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
31 MARCH 2026 (Calgary, AB) –The Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo is revealing Imagine Asia, a bold new name and look for a major destination area. Phase one of this multi-year redevelopment, Asian Highlands, opens this summer.
Formerly Exploration Asia, Imagine Asia introduces a fresh look inspired by the region’s diverse landscapes and wildlife. Vivid colours and layered illustrations create a sense of discovery at every turn, bringing renovated habitats and immersive experiences to life.
“Imagine Asia is the next step in our transformation of Exploration Asia — a new name and identity that reflects the scale and sense of discovery we’re building into the space,” said Dr. Kyle Burks, President & CEO of the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo. “This summer, guests will experience that vision firsthand with the opening of Asian Highlands.”
ASIAN HIGHLANDS: Life at the Edge of the Sky
Imagine a winding pathway beneath a forest canopy, alive with sound and movement. Red pandas climb overhead, while snow leopards traverse rocky terrain in the distance. This is Asian Highlands, the first phase of the Imagine Asia redevelopment, opening in July 2026.
Returning favourites and a new species, set to be announced later this spring, bring the iconic landscape of the Eastern Himalayas to life — sparking curiosity and connection while prioritizing world-class animal care.
“Asian Highlands is designed with the welfare and wellbeing of every animal at its heart,” said Colleen Baird, Director, Animal Care, Health & Welfare. “Guests will see animals exploring new, enriched habitats while learning about the incredible species that call Asia home. These transformations are made possible thanks to the support of our community and donors, whose generosity helps us create exceptional spaces for animals and meaningful experiences for guests.”
What’s Next
Construction in Imagine Asia has resumed, and Asian Highlands remains on track for a grand opening in July 2026. While some areas may have limited viewing during construction, guests can still enjoy favourites such as Bactrian camels, Komodo dragons, white-handed gibbons, Malayan tapirs, red-crowned cranes, Turkmenian markhors, Amur tigers, Dalmatian pelicans, and Pallas’s cats.
Stay tuned to the zoo’s website and social media channels for the latest construction updates and announcements leading up to the phase one opening of Asian Highlands.
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For more information contact:
Cindy Antonello
Senior Manager, Communications
403-232-7766 | 403-919-9482 | mediarelations@calgaryzoo.com
