Hero image of Andean bear and jaguar

April 19–20, 2025

Wild Weekend: Amazonia

Discover the vibrant wildlife of the Peruvian Amazon, including Andean bears, jaguars, and harpy eagles. Amazonia is the world’s largest tropical rainforest, and home to some of Earth’s most endangered wildlife and vanishing resources.

 

Often called “the lungs of the planet,” the Amazon rainforest absorbs a vast quantity of carbon dioxide and exchanges it for oxygen, playing a crucial role in stabilizing climate worldwide. Securing its future is vital for all of us.

 

Join us to celebrate Earth Day and Wild Weekend: Amazonia at the San Diego Zoo on Saturday, April 19, and Sunday, April 20, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Swing in to discover how we’re saving and protecting the unique wildlife across this sprawling biodiversity hotspot, and how allies like you are making a difference through our Amazonia Conservation Hub. You’ll find interactive experiences and fun for the whole family!

 

jaguar walking across a branch

Ask a Wildlife Care Specialist

  • 10 a.m.–3 p.m.
  • Various Locations

Ever wonder if jaguars are good swimmers, or how their coat pattern differs from leopards and other spotted cats? Meet our experts to discover Amazonia’s wildlife and the incredible efforts you make possible to protect their future.

  • Jaguar, 10 a.m. and 1 p.m., Elephant Odyssey
  • Andean Bear, 10 a.m., Upper Center Street; 11:30 a.m., Lower Center Street
  • Harpy Eagle, 12:30 p.m., Eagle Trail
  • Yellow Spotted River Turtle, 2:30 p.m., Lower Cool Critters, Wildlife Explorers Basecamp
bear on log

Rainforest Craft and Activity

  • 10 a.m.–3 p.m.
  • Treetops Plaza

Learn more about the fascinating wildlife found throughout Amazonia and create your own special memento to take home.

horticulturist with plants

Meet a Horticulturist

  • 10 a.m.–3 p.m.
  • Treetops Plaza

Amazonia is home to countless species of plants, including bromeliads, palms, orchids, and many that have yet to be identified. Explore the vast plant life of this lush, biodiverse region and learn about sustainable practices that help protect endangered habitats. 

two otters

Engage in Conservation

  • 10 a.m.–3 p.m.
  • Treetops Plaza

We work hand-in-hand with local communities, developing sustainable solutions to protect biodiversity and ensure all who share this ecosystem can thrive. Chat with our conservation scientists and find out how your support helps through our Amazonia Conservation Hub.

bear

Be an Ally for Wildlife

  • 10 a.m.–3 p.m.
  • Treetops Plaza

Learn about ways you can practice sustainable tourism and protect endangered wildlife when you travel.

parents with child observing polar bear
Reservation Required

Inside Look Tours

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

Dr. Zoolittle

Meet Dr. Zoolittle

  • 10 a.m.–3 p.m.
  • Treetops Plaza

Chat with your favorite wildlife science explorer throughout the day, and join in on the rainforest fun with interactive presentations.

Jaguar

Shop for a Cause

  • Various locations

Share your love for the rainforest and bring home some memorable souvenirs. Every purchase helps safeguard the future for endangered species and the ecosystems we share.

jaguar adoption kit

Adopt a Jaguar

Your symbolic adoption of a jaguar helps save, protect, and care for wildlife in San Diego, throughout Amazonia, and across the globe.

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