Pitch a tent next to elephants and tigers at ZSL Whipsnade Zoo 

Nature Nights from Saturday 4 June – Saturday 3 September 

The UK’s biggest Zoo is inviting guests to pitch their tents and spend the night amongst 10,000 animals, with the launch of Nature Nights at ZSL Whipsnade Zoo.  

With selected dates available between Saturday 4 June to Saturday 3 September, families can set up camp in the heart of the Bedfordshire based conservation Zoo, spending an evening neighbouring the resident Asian elephants, common hippos and chimpanzees.  

Image of Baby Asian elephant calf, Elizabeth, with two adult female elephants at ZSL Whipsnade Zoo

After the Zoo has closed to the public, happy campers will join an expert ZSL host to explore the 600-acre nature haven by torchlight, visiting the Zoo’s keeping an eye out for nocturnal animals and native wildlife. 

After an evening filled with adventurous activities including a specially designed quiz and Zoo tours, guests will tiptoe past the sleeping animals on their way back to camp, settling down for the night within roaring distance of the Zoo’s Amur tigers.  

ZSL Whipsnade Zoo’s Commercial Manager, Chris Webb said; “ZSL Whipsnade Zoo is a magical place to spend the night surrounded by nature. Camping overnight gives guests the chance to explore the Zoo in a whole new light under the expert guidance of our hosts, and see for themselves what happens at ZSL Whipsnade Zoo after dark.” 

“This year, we’re offering large groups of families and friends or Scouts and Guide groups the opportunity to book a private night to enjoy Nature Nights, at the UK’s largest Zoo, to themselves. As part of private Nature Nights we’re pleased to offer tailored tours to meet the specific interests of the group or help complete a badge that Uniformed Groups are working towards.”   

After a good night’s sleep visitors may be woken by roars from across the Zoo signalling it’s time to enjoy a hearty breakfast roll and hot drink.  

Image of Chimp at ZSL Whipsnade Zoo 

Chris Webb continues; “Amur tigers, Makari, Dmitri and Czar are our Zoo’s alarm clock. Their roars can travel up to two miles, ensuring they wake anyone who’s still sleeping. Keep an ear out, you might hear them roar from your tent.” 

Animal lovers will set off on a morning tour to spot the earlier risers, guided by dedicated hosts, before the Zoo opens to the public for the day.  

Suitable for families with children aged five and older, Nature Nights takes place on selected Saturdays, from 6.30pm, until 10am on Sunday. After packing up their tent visitors will then be free to spend the day in the Zoo. Ticket to Nature Nights at ZSL Whipsnade Zoo are £60 for adults and £55 for children.  

Private bookings for groups of up to 60 are available on alternative dates from June to September. Tours can be designed specifically for group's needs, including challenges to complete badges for Scout, Brownie and Guide groups.  

 To find out more or book your tickets visit zsl.org.  

Image of Flamingos at ZSL Whipsnade Zoo