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Thursday, February 6, 2025

A lover’s guide to the wild side at the Zoo

This February, love is in the air at the National Zoo & Aquarium and Jamala Wildlife Lodge. Whether you’re looking for a fun and cheeky Valentine’s adventure or an intimate and luxurious escape, their special offerings provide the perfect opportunity to celebrate romance while supporting vital conservation efforts. From the playful and educational tours to the ultimate Jamala Romance Package, there’s no better time to experience the wild side of love.

If you and your partner are looking for a Valentine’s experience that’s a little out of the ordinary, Woo at the Zoo is the perfect way to spice up your evening. The National Zoo’s Will Tran says this adults-only guided tour takes a humorous yet insightful look at the romantic lives of our animals.

“Woo at the Zoo is an over-18 tour designed to be both tongue-in-cheek and educational,” says Will. We explore how our animals court each other, go on dates, and, of course, consummate their relationships.”

Beyond the laughs, the experience includes plenty of photo opportunities with the animals, a reptile meet-and-greet, and a delicious picnic box for two featuring chocolate-covered strawberries and a glass of bubbly.

“It’s a whole lot of fun and makes for a great night out. It’s also a fantastic date option, especially for those looking for something a little different,” Will says.

For couples looking to indulge in a truly unforgettable escape, Jamala Wildlife Lodge’s Romance Package offers the perfect blend of luxury, adventure, and conservation.

National Zoo & Aquarium

Zoo team member Chara Reynolds highlights what makes this stay at Jamala so special and roar-mantic.

“Jamala is already a memorable and all-inclusive experience, but the Romance Package we’ve created this February makes it extra special. Guests will be welcomed to their suite by a bottle of Moët, and to add to the adventure, will have the opportunity to complete an extra guided tour through the zoo,” Chara says.

Guests staying at Jamala will experience exclusive animal encounters, including the chance to feed some of the zoo’s big cats and bears, with additional experiences available depending on the chosen suite. Those who book the Shark Suite can even meet the sharks and feed the hyenas, making for a truly immersive wildlife adventure.

Chara says that couples staying Jamala’s Jungle Bungalows may even learn a thing or two from the Malaysian sun bears.

“Arataki and Otay are what we lovingly call our ‘old married couple’—they’ve been at the zoo together for nearly 20 years. They even had a little baby, Mary,” she says.

“Coming from difficult circumstances, they now have a safe and secure environment where they serve as ambassadors for their species, the Malayan sun bear. You can often see them snuggling up or making their bed together—it’s a heartwarming sight and maybe even a source of relationship tips!”

Beyond the romance, every visit to the National Zoo & Aquarium and Jamala Wildlife Lodge plays a crucial role in supporting conservation.

“Every visitor and tour at our facility directly contributes to funding conservation efforts, both locally and globally,” he says.

So, by going on these tours or staying at Jamala, not only do visitors get an extraordinary experience, they are also helping to fund the Zoo’s conservation efforts and breeding programs.

“This is the fundamental role of zoological facilities—they create opportunities for endangered species to recover and repopulate. Conservation is at the heart of our mission, ensuring these animals have a future in the wild,” says Will.

This Valentine’s season, make your celebration truly unforgettable with an experience that blends romance, adventure, and a passion for wildlife conservation. Whether you’re looking for a fun and quirky date night with Woo at the Zoo or a luxurious getaway with the Jamala Romance Package, there’s no better time to visit the National Zoo & Aquarium and Jamala Wildlife Lodge.

“From the moment you book—whether it’s a surprise for your partner or something you plan together—the experience is designed to be truly memorable,” says Chara.

This February, celebrate love in the wildest way possible! For more information or to book your Woo at the Zoo tour or Jamala Romance Package, visit nationalzoo.com.au or jamalawildlifelodge.com.au

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