UK zoo opens bookings for safari lodges with sunrise views of giraffes

Chester Zoo is set to launch its first-ever overnight safari-style lodges, with bookings now being taken for the new experience named The Reserve at Chester Zoo.

Animal lovers were able to start snapping up summer spots from 9am this morning (January 29) with prices starting from £375 per night for two in low season.

Visitors looking for the crème de la crème experience can splurge on bespoke packages including exclusive zoo experiences and chats with conservation gurus starting from £1,000 a night.

Fifty-one exclusive lodges will be available, offering either mesmerising views of the giraffe habitat or a serene lakeside vista.

The sustainable, nature-inspired lodges will open their doors on August 18, 2025, having been designed with careful consideration for environmental impact.

The range of lodges can accommodate groups of up to nine, perfect for family adventures.

Some lodges are nestled alonside the lake, while others overlook a privately crafted savannah-like setting, home to majestic Northern giraffes, reports the Manchester Evening News. 

The Reserve at Chester Zoo’ promises to be a unique UK getaway inspired by African landscapes, aimed at supporting endangered species.

Artist’s impressions provide a glimpse of the luxury resort, complete with a new welcome building and its exclusive restaurant, The Amboseli Restaurant — named after the Kenyan region where the zoo aids lion conservation. Guests can look forward to indulging in fresh food and drinks on the lakeside terrace, Tsavo Lounge.

Chester Zoo covers a vast 128-acre estate and is home to an impressive variety of over 37,000 animals spanning more than 500 species, consistently ranking as one of the top attractions in the UK.

Speaking about the all new experience, Chester Zoo’s CEO Jamie Christon said: “There’s nothing else quite like The Reserve at Chester Zoo in the UK.

“It’s so much more than just a short break – it’ll provide guests with unforgettable experiences and bring them face-to-face with extraordinary animals, all while helping to protect the wild world and fund powerful conservation action.”

“They’ll have special, out-of-hours access to the zoo, the opportunity to engage in a range of behind-the-scenes and animal experiences and be able to enjoy a freshly prepared meal, before taking in conservation stories while relaxing by our fire-pit on our lakeside terrace with blankets, cushions and toasting marshmallows. It’s the ultimate African safari experience, right here in the UK.”

He also highlighted the added bonus that every stay contributes directly to the zoo’s conservation efforts.

“What’s very special about this project is that stays at The Reserve will help to fund our species-saving conservation work, both here at the zoo and over in Kenya and Uganda, where our teams are working to secure a brighter future for highly endangered species like the eastern black rhino, giant pangolin and mountain bongo.”

Mr Christon added: “Guests will be able to wake up in luxurious surroundings and enjoy sunrise views across a private savannah and the chance to view wildlife straight from their lodge balcony.

“This will be a bucket list stay that also contributes to helping wildlife not only survive, but thrive.”

To discover more details or secure a reservation, interested parties can visit www.chesterzoo.org/accommodation.