Sleeping Bag Safaris
Sleeping Bag Safaris
Spend the night at the Zoo for an experience unlike any other. Sleeping Bag Safaris are unique overnight adventures that invite guests to explore after hours, take part in hands-on activities, and learn how Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium is making an impact in global wildlife conservation. Camp out in select indoor spaces, make lasting memories, and wake up to a whole new view of the Zoo.
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Age Requirement: Designed for children aged 4 and above
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Chaperone Policy: We require 1 adult to accompany every 10 youths
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Program Time: Overnights run typically 7 p.m.-9 a.m. (unless otherwise noted)
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Family and Small Group Safaris: Offered on pre-scheduled dates. Spots fill quickly, so sign up early!
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Private Group Overnights: For groups of 25 or more. Perfect for schools, Scouts, or community groups.
Private Safaris (25 participants or more)
Designed for groups of 25 or more, Private Safaris offer an exclusive overnight experience at Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium, available year-round. Whether you’re with a school, church group, scout troop, summer camp, family reunion, or other large gathering, this unforgettable adventure blends education, excitement, and up-close encounters with wildlife. Participants must be at least four years old to join.
What's Included
- Education Programming: Engaging activities that explore wildlife, conservation, and the natural world.
- Zoo Admission: Includes admission to Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium that day after your overnight stay.
- Evening Snack: Enjoy a light snack before bedtime.
- Guided Evening Tours: Discover the magic of the Zoo after dark with expert-led behind-the-scenes tours.
- Games: Interactive group games focused on conservation and animal fun.
- Movie: Wind down with a themed movie for your whole group to enjoy.
- Morning Guided Tour: Kick off the day with a guided tour before the Zoo opens to the public.
Customization and Pricing
Enhance your safari with optional add-on packages—featuring unique amenities and experiences. Pricing is per person and varies by facility.
Small Group Safaris
Small Group Safaris offer a tailored overnight experience for groups that fall below the 25-person minimum of our Large Group Safaris. Ideal for schools, churches, or scout troops, this program delivers an exciting and educational adventure that brings the magic of the Zoo to life after hours.
What's Included
- Overnight stay at the Zoo
- Engaging age-appropriate educational activities
- Expert-led evening and morning guided tours
- Evening snack provided
Please note: Morning breakfast is not included. Groups are welcome to bring their own food and drinks, but items must remain in vehicles until morning.
Additional Information
- Cost: $45-$55 / person
- Minimum Age: 4 years old
Tents are required. Rentals are available first come, first serve for an additional charge.
Family Safaris
Unplug, connect, and discover the Zoo after dark during this unforgettable overnight adventure. Family Safaris bring multiple families together for a rare chance to explore the Zoo after hours. Enjoy hands-on activities, up-close animal encounters, and plenty of fun designed for all ages.
Regular Family Safari
Classic tent-camping overnight Zoo adventure offered on specific dates across various Zoo venues.
What’s Included:
- Overnight stay at the Zoo
- Educational activities for all ages
- Evening and morning guided tours
- Evening snacks & themed movie
- Grab-n-go breakfast
- Special animal talk
- Free daytime Zoo admission following your overnight stay
Additional Information:
- Tents are required. Rentals available on a first-come, first-served basis for an additional fee
- Minimum age: 4 years and up
- Cost: $50–$73 per person (varies by location)
Serengeti Safari
A premium tent-camping experience under the stars, featuring enhanced amenities and exclusive activities.
What’s Included:
Everything included in a regular Family Safari, plus:
- Exclusive Safari Tent Camp location in Scott African Grasslands
- Furnished safari-style tent per family
- Evening campfire experience
Additional Information:
- Tents are reserved per family
- One adult required per tent
- Minimum age: 4 years and up
- Cost: $110 per person (minimum tent occupancy of 2)
Sundown Safari: An Adult Getaway
Escape the everyday and step into adventure with Sundown Safari, an exclusive adults-only overnight experience. Designed for those ready to unwind, connect, and explore the Zoo after dark, this immersive getaway blends comfortable relaxation with captivating wildlife encounters under the stars. Perfect for anyone seeking a unique outdoor retreat, Sundown Safari is open exclusively to adults 21 and older.
What's Included
- Dinner and Drinks: Enjoy a picnic-style dinner and refreshing beverages in a scenic setting.
- Guided Evening Tour: Discover the Zoo in a new light during an enchanting twilight tour.
- Outdoor Movie and Campfire S'mores: Wind down with a cozy campfire, s'mores, and a themed outdoor movie.
- Grab-n-Go Breakfast: Wake up to a light, convenient breakfast to start your morning right.
- Morning Tour: Greet the day with a guided tour through the Zoo before opening hours.
- Full-Day Zoo Admission: Stay and explore the Zoo at your leisure after your overnight adventure.
Tent Accommodations
Each 10' x 12' safari-style tent includes:
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Choice of double cot or two single cots
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Electrical outlet
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Nightstand with lantern, area rug, director chairs, and café table
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Oscillating fan for added comfort
Please bring your own bedding and comfortable walking shoes.
Additional Information
- Cost: $135 per person (sold per tent: $270)
- Age Requirement: Exclusively for adults 21 and over.
- Occupancy: Maximum of two guests per tent. Single campers must book for two.
- Program Duration: From 6 p.m.-9 a.m.