Home to over 155 species and set in 60 acres of parkland and lakes, Colchester Zoo hosts many different habitats, from the humid home of our Komodo Dragons to our very own Africa plain, Kingdom of the Wild, home to white rhino, giraffes, ostrich, zebra and kudu.

Colchester Zoo is open every day of the year except for Christmas Day. Pre-booked schools are welcome to visit on any day.

If you are visiting on a self-guided, teacher lead visit you can visit on any day that you would like. We do not limit the number of schools on any given day.

If you are interested in booking formal education sessions spaces are limited. We recommend booking as far in advance as possible to ensure availability. You can also contact the education department (01206 332511 or 01206 331292 or education@colchesterzoo.org) before making your booking to check availability on your preferred dates.

Colchester Zoo’s educators can also come to your school!

These sessions will take place at your school at a time convenient to you.
Please note that we do not bring live animals on outreach sessions.
Sessions are available for primary, secondary and higher students.

Almost all education sessions available at Colchester Zoo are available for outreach sessions. Details of all the sessions can be found on the website in the appropriate age category.