Secrets of the Zoo Backstage Encounter

Special Behind-the-Scenes Tours

Secrets of the Zoo Backstage Encounter

Back by popular demand! Are you a fan of the NatGeo WILD television series, Secrets of the Zoo: Tampa? Season 3 is still under production, but you can get your fix now of the wild behind-the-scenes adventures of the amazing animals that live at ZooTampa and the dedicated team entrusted with their care. Go on an unprecedented tour with one of our “stars” and get exclusive updates on the animals you love. From rhinos to manatees, find out ALL the secrets and spend your morning on an adventure you will not forget.

Space is limited, secure your spot today!

Secrets of the Zoo: Tampa

Saturday, May 1st, 2021

8:00 AM
Tiffany Burns
Tiffany Burns

Go on an adventure with Associate Curator Tiffany and explore the newest member of the ZooTampa family, an adorable baby siamang and then get an update on everyone’s favorites, the shoebills storks and African penguins.

Program Includes:
  • Coffee & juice before the tour
  • 90-minute guided walking tour of our animal areas, hosted by a star of the upcoming season of Secrets of the Zoo
  • Professional photo with one of our animals
  • General Admission to the Zoo following the program

Get Tickets

Saturday, May 15th, 2021

8:00 AM
Sue Pasquine
Sue Pasquine

Be part of an orangutan enrichment session with Associate Curator Sue and then explore our clouded leopards habitat for an unforgettable adventure.

Program Includes:
  • Coffee & juice before the tour
  • 90-minute guided walking tour of our animal areas, hosted by a star of the upcoming season of Secrets of the Zoo
  • Professional photo with one of our animals
  • General Admission to the Zoo following the program

Get Tickets

Saturday, May 22nd, 2021

8:00 AM
Molly Lippincott
Molly Lippincott

Take a stroll on the Florida boardwalk with Animal Care Manager Molly and explore our playful otters and the gentle manatees that are receiving life-saving care at our David A Straz, Jr. Critical Care Center.

Program Includes:
  • Coffee & juice before the tour
  • 90-minute guided walking tour of our animal areas, hosted by a star of the upcoming season of Secrets of the Zoo
  • Professional photo with one of our animals
  • General Admission to the Zoo following the program

Get Tickets

Saturday, May 29th, 2021

8:00 AM
Mike Burns
Mike Burns

Take a safari to Africa with Associate Curator Mike and learn more about some of the Zoo’s most majestic species including elephants and rhinos.

Program Includes:
  • Coffee & juice before the tour
  • 90-minute guided walking tour of our animal areas, hosted by a star of the upcoming season of Secrets of the Zoo
  • Professional photo with one of our animals
  • General Admission to the Zoo following the program

Get Tickets

Saturday, June 5th, 2021

8:00 AM
Dr Lauren Smith
Dr. Lauren Smith

Join Director of Animal Health Dr. Lauren and get an exclusive peek into our Catherine Lowry Straz Animal Hospital and then visit the latest group of manatee patients recovering at our critical care center.

Program Includes:
  • Coffee & juice before the tour
  • 90-minute guided walking tour of our animal areas, hosted by a star of the upcoming season of Secrets of the Zoo
  • Professional photo with one of our animals
  • General Admission to the Zoo following the program

Get Tickets

Members

$100.00

Not a Member? Become a Member

Non-Members

$125.00

Know Before You Go

COVID Safety Information

  • Masks are required to participate in this event, except when eating or drinking. Disposable masks are available at no cost.
  • ZooTampa is principally an outdoor fresh-air experience; therefore, when outside, guests who maintain proper social distance are not required to wear face masks. Even so, every guest entering the Zoo is strongly encouraged to wear a mask. Disposable masks are available at no cost. Guests will be informed of venues/experiences where masks are required.
  • To ensure safety, participants agree to abide by Zoo safety protocols including social distancing and healthy hygiene practices.
  • Guests will have their temperature checked at the Zoo’s entrance. Anyone with a temperature above 100.4 degrees will not be admitted. If you feel sick, please stay home and seek proper medical care.