Hourly Animal Encounters
Every admission ticket includes public animal encounters throughout the day. Get up close with friendly species like snakes, lizards, and tarantulas while keepers share fascinating insights and answer questions.
The National Reptile Zoo
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About
Ireland's only reptile zoo — get hands-on with snakes, lizards, tarantulas and more at hourly keeper-led encounters inside this indoor Kilkenny attraction.
Things to Do
Explore 60+ Themed Habitats
Over 100 animals from more than 50 species are on display — from American alligators and pythons to poison dart frogs, axolotls, tortoises and giant spiders. Look out for the Curiosity Wall showcasing research projects.
Nocturnal Room and Media Room
The Nocturnal Room uses a reversed day-night cycle so you can watch night-active creatures in action. The Media Room screens films about the zoo's conservation projects abroad and its history.
VIP Keeper and Private Encounters
Book a Private Encounter (from €65) for a personalised session just for your group, choosing themes like Turtle Talks, Snake Scéal, or Cool Crawlers. VIP Keeper Experiences (from €235) give you behind-the-scenes access to off-show areas and feeding sessions.
Shop and Explorer's Mess Café
Browse the gift shop for reptile-themed souvenirs and toys. The Explorer's Mess café serves coffee, drinks and snacks — perfect for a mid-visit break.
School Tours and Workshops
Tailored programmes for primary through senior cycle, plus Scout and Guide groups. Workshops can happen at the zoo, in your classroom via Zoo to You, or virtually through Zoo Zoom.
Plan Your Visit
- Hours: Open 7 days a week, 10am to 6pm, including bank holidays. Open year-round except Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and St. Stephen's Day.
- Admission: Adults €16, children (3+) €13.50, OAP/students €14.50, family from €43
- Parking: Free on-site parking with plenty of spaces. Contact the zoo in advance if arriving by campervan. Bike racks also available.
- Food: The Explorer's Mess café on site serves coffee, hot drinks, and snacks. An outdoor picnic area is available for those bringing their own food.
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