Rhinos, Giraffes, Trails, Howl-O-Wee, Wildlights…Back To Full Operations At The Living Desert

Beginning Friday, October 1st, the grounds of The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens will open daily at 8 a.m. for both members and non-members with full zoo amenities opening at 9 a.m. The Zoo will remain open until 5 p.m. with the last admission at 4 p.m.

 

The Living Desert’s three, nature preserve hiking trails, the Discovery Loop, Adventure Loop and Wilderness Loop, also will reopen to guests and members at 8 a.m. on October 1. While each trail offers varying degrees of difficulty, they all feature beautiful views of the natural desert surroundings. Hikers must observe all posted signage and stay on the designated trails, as they are in a nature preserve. The trails, accessible with paid admission or with an annual membership, are open every day, except Christmas Day, through May 31, 2022.

 

Also beginning October 1 are new hours for popular Zoo activities. Giraffe feedings are offered   9 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily for an additional fee of $6 for members and $8 for non-members. Rides on the endangered species carousel are available from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily at $3 per ride. Australian Adventures, featuring wallabies, emu, budgies, and more animals from the land down under awaits guests from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily, and is free with admission.

 

“We have so much to celebrate in the coming season and we are thrilled to announce the official opening of our Rhino Savanna on November 12,” said Allen Monroe, President/CEO of The Living Desert. “In addition to this exciting new habitat that features some of Africa’s most iconic species, we are also looking forward to the return of our favorite annual events.”

 

The new, four-acre Rhino Savanna will be home to Jaali (pronounced Jolly) and Nia (pronounced Ny-a), two black rhinos, along with African antelope including klipspringer, springbok, and waterbuck, plus cape vultures, and naked mole rat, among others.

 

The following popular annual events also return to the Zoo this season: Howl-O-Ween on October 30 & 31; WildLights on select nights November 23 – December 30; La Gran Fiesta in January; Fairytale & Frog Day on February 6; and Brew at the Zoo in Spring.

 

Living Desert is open daily and advanced reservations are required. For more information about The Living Desert and upcoming events, visit LivingDesert.org or call (760) 346-5694.

 

 

Bennett’s Wallaby at the Living Desert, Palm Desert CA

Photo of Bennett’s Wallaby from The Living Desert Palm Desert CA