Close Encounters
Behind the Scenes Tiger Tour
Experience the World of Tigers under the guidance of the Zoo’s Tiger Keepers. Start
with an informative mini lecture all about Tigers. Enter one of the top world class
Tiger Habitats in the Country. Start your journey by entering a glass walled tunnel,
where in a protective environment through 7/8 inch laminated safety glass walls,
you can observe the Zoo’s famous rare Tigers socializing and displaying natural
behavior. Next witness the Tigers response to their Keepers as they are given special
treats. Then follow the Keepers for a special behind the scenes look at the Tigers
state of the art indoor living quarters where they sleep and eat. This journey will
become a lifelong memory.
Minimum Donation: $250.00 for 2 people, 16 years old and older
Approx. 25 minutes in length
By advance reservation only, Monday through Sunday, 10am – 3pm
Special Tiger Encounter
An experience of a lifetime! Meet the Zoo’s famous rare Tigers up close and personal
in a protective environment, separated only by 7/8 inch laminated safety glass.
Listen to your Guide telling about these magnificent creatures as they display their
natural behavior and socialize with each other.
Minimum Donation: $48.00 for 6 people, $8 for each additional person, all ages welcome
Approx. 15 to 20 minutes long, maximum capacity 15 people
No reservation necessary Wednesday through Sunday 10am – 3pm
Reindeer Encounter
A Fascinating view of a Fascinating Creature
Experience being with one of the largest Reindeer Herds of any Zoo in the Country.
Start the Encounter by assisting the Zoo Keeper in preparing the special Reindeer diet.
Help clean the Reindeer habitat and barn. Give specialized enrichment treats a they
congregate around you. Observe their hierarchal social behavior while they feast on
the diet you prepared and learn what makes this species unique among all other deer species.
Minimum Donation: $75.00 for 1 person 18 years old and older only
Approx. 30 minutes in length
Cougar Encounter (Pending)
Participate in this Once in a Lifetime Experience
Meet our National Treasure, the ‘Cat of all Cats,’ up close and eye to eye. Listen
to the keeper tell you all about cougars. Go inside the habitat and help clean and
tidy up. Help the Keeper feed this magnificent predator in its special feeding area.
Observe the Cougar’s behavior as he takes possession of his ‘meal’ and his habits
afterwards. Meeting this magnificent feline behind the scenes will give you a new
perspective of the Cat of all Cats also called the American Lion.
Minimum Donation: $180.00 for 1 person 18 years old and older only
Approx. 45 minutes in length
Lemur Encounter
Enjoy this memory that lasts a lifetime.
Interact and feed these critically endangered and mysterious creatures from the
island of Madagascar. Admire their beauty, social interaction and incredible athletic
ability. Do not miss this enchanting and rare opportunity to meet the magnificent
Lemurs at the Cougar Mountain Zoo.
Minimum Donation: $180.00 for 1 person 18 years old and older only
Approx. 45 minutes in length
Crane Encounter
Spend time with the most beautiful crane in the World
Meet our flock of young East African Crowned Cranes up close and personal. Socialize
with these magnificent birds as you assist the keeper in daily enrichment and playtime
activities!
Minimum Donation: $45.00 for 1 person 18 years old and older only
Approx. 20 minutes in length
Mule Deer Encounter
Meet our Mule Deer Herd Up Close and Personal!
Feed the deer special treats and watch them frolic and prong around their outdoor play
area. Observe their natural behavior in this intimate encouner.
Minimum Donation: $100.00 for 1 person, $50.00 per each additional person.
Limited to 4 people per Encounter. Ages 7+ welcome. Ages 7-15 need adult
paid and present for Encounter.
Approx. 20 minutes in length
How to book your Close Encounter!
Close Encounters are held according to the specific schedule of each individual
animal.
Close Encounters may be rescheduled and/or shortened due to animal’s state of mind.
Call the Education Department Now at 425-392-6278.
A $50 non-refundable deposit (VISA or MasterCard over phone or in person) at the
time of booking will secure your reservation. If you decide to change the date or
time of your encounter please call us as soon as possible and we can transfer your
deposit.