Gorilla and Okapi - Wild Weekend September 20-21 African Forest

September 20–21, 2025

Wild Weekend: African Forest

Central African forests are teeming with wildlife and are critically important to the health of our planet. Their lush river valleys and rocky mountain peaks contain the world’s second-largest tropical rainforest, an abundance of rare plants, and some of the most endangered primates on Earth—including western lowland gorillas. In Cameroon, we’re working together with local communities to protect wildlife and biodiversity across this vast region.
 

Join us to celebrate Wild Weekend: African Forest, September 20–21 at the San Diego Zoo, to explore how we are saving, protecting, and caring for fascinating wildlife throughout this forest landscape. From 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., swing into immersive activities for wildlife allies of all ages and discover how you make a difference through our African Forest Conservation Hub.

photo of hippo underwater at the zoo

Wildlife Care Specialist Talks

  • Various Times
  • Various Locations

Connect with wildlife care specialists to engage with African Forest wildlife and the incredible efforts you make possible to protect their future.

  • Baboons, 10 a.m., Baboon Habitat Overlook, Africa Rocks
  • Colobus Monkeys and Black Mangabeys, 10:30 a.m., Sun Bear Forest, Lower Center Street near Map Locator #13
  • Gorillas, 11 a.m. and 12:30 p.m., Gorilla Habitat, Lost Forest
  • Hippos and Okapis, Noon, Hippo Habitat, Hippo Trail
  • Swamp Monkeys, Otters, and Red River Hogs, 1 p.m., Ituri Forest, Lower Hippo Trail near Ituri Shopping and Dining
  • Slender-Snouted Crocodile, 2 p.m., Monkey Trail, Lost Forest next to Pygmy Hippos
photo of monkey in foliage

Engage in an Activity

  • 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
  • Treetops Plaza

Participate in an activity that will immerse you in the sights and sounds of the African forest.

person holding a card where they are collaging leaves and animal stickers

Make a Craft

  • 10:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
  • Treetops Plaza

Discover fascinating wildlife found throughout the African forest, and take home a handmade craft.

photo of three ringtail lemurs sitting on a rock

Chat with a Conservationist

  • 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
  • Treetops Plaza

Conservation starts with each and every one of us. Meet with our experts to hear straight from the source about our work through our African Forest Conservation Hub—and discover how your support makes a crucial difference across the globe. 

landscape photo of Ebo Forest courtesy ZSSD Daniel Mfossa

Ask a Horticulturist

  • 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
  • Treetops Plaza

Engage with our horticulture team and get to know some of the remarkable flora of the African forest.

close up of a gorilla

Be an Ally for Wildlife

  • 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
  • Treetops Plaza

Take action to support conservation efforts that help save and protect vulnerable wildlife, and participate in a community art project.

Family with young child posing in front of Africa Rocks habitat
Reservation Required

Inside Look Tours

Embark on an entertaining and educational adventure! This 90-minute experience offers guided views, fascinating insights on how we care for wildlife, and stories you won’t hear anywhere else. You’ll be escorted around the Zoo in a cart by one of our expert guides. All participants require a ticket for the experience, regardless of age.

Close up of mama and baby okapi eating branches

Support Wildlife

Share your love for African forest wildlife, and take some souvenirs home with you! Your purchases help safeguard the future for endangered species and the ecosystems we all share.

Closeup image of otter swimming underwater

Become a Wildlife Ally

As a Wildlife Ally, your visits to the San Diego Zoo and continued support help save, protect, and care for wildlife here and across the globe. Become a hero for wildlife with a monthly gift today!

adoption package of plush gorilla, postcard, and SDZWA pin

Adopt a Gorilla

Your symbolic adoption supports community-led efforts to save endangered gorillas and other wildlife in the Ebo forest and beyond. San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance works with local communities through our African Forest Conservation Hub to protect critical habitat for western lowland and mountain gorillas, prevent poaching, and find ways for people and gorillas to peacefully live side by side.

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