
A lot is happening in Washington, D.C. this week, from record-breaking cold weather to the chaos that comes with a presidential inauguration, there is no better time than to find ways to take your mind off of the stressful things in life.
If you find yourself trying to tune things out, then look no further than the cutest thing you’ll see today: Poppy – the Richmond Zoo’s new baby pygmy hippo!
What is ‘The Poppy Pygmy Hippo Experience’
Announced on January 21st and starting the January 22nd, this unique experience will allow zoo-goers to enjoy a personal encounter to meet and interact with Poppy and her mom, Iris.
The 30-minute experience includes:
- A guided behind-the-scenes tour of the indoor pool area of the “Hippo Haven” habitat.
- Wading into the water near Iris and Poppy with a safe barrier in between (waders provided)
- Potential opportunities to feed produce to Poppy and Iris.
- Learning more about pygmy hippo behavior and conservation from a zoo team member
How to book ‘The Poppy Pygmy Hippo Experience’
According to the Metro Richmond Zoo’s website, the Poppy Pygmy Hippo Experience will only be offered for a limited time and while capacity is available.
Experience policies:
- Tickets are $175 per person
- Max group size of 4 people
- Ages 8 & up
- Zoo Admission must be purchased in conjunction with the Experience ticket
- All sales are final – no refunds. no rescheduling.
- Physical requirements for the experience and to access behind-the-scenes areas: Guests must be able to fit through a narrow alley (24″ wide), be able to step over a 27″ rail, be able to walk downstairs, and be able to wade in water (max depth on guest’s side: 30″ deep)
You can make a reservation today on their website to reserve your spot, but as demand is high there is no assurance space will be available.
How to see Poppy the pygmy hippo as a normal visitor
The roughly 2-month-old pygmy hippo baby, Poppy, can be visited at the Metro Richmond Zoo in Mosley, Virginia during any of their standard zoo hours in her ‘Hippo Haven’ habitat.
The zoo is roughly a 2.5-hour drive south of Washington, D.C., and around a 35-minute drive southwest of Richmond.
Metro Richmond Zoo day ticket costs
The cost for general day tickets to enter the zoo breaks down as follows:
- Adults (Ages 12 – 59) – $26.95
- Senior (Ages 60+) – $25.95
- Child (Ages 2-11) – $19.95
- Infant (Ages 1 and under) – Free
Additional fees for parking or day rentals:
- Parking (all vehicles) – Free
- Single Stroller – $7.00
- Double Stroller – $12.00
- Adult Transport Chair – $12.00