Wildlife Encounters at Secret Valley Wildlife Park in Co. Wexford

Attraction · Clonroche

Capybara Experience

Discover the charming world of capybaras at Secret Valley Wildlife Park in Co. Wexford with a close-up, personal encounter. This intimate experience offers a rare chance to cuddle and feed these gentle giants, guided by experts dedicated to wildlife education and conservation. Perfect for animal lovers and families seeking meaningful outdoor interactions.

View experience
Duration40 minutes
LocationClonroche, Co.Wexford
OperatorSecret Valley Wildlife Park
Price shownCheck dates

Adventure brief

Capybara Experience

Discover the charming world of capybaras at Secret Valley Wildlife Park in Co. Wexford with a close-up, personal encounter. This intimate experience offers a rare chance to cuddle and feed these gentle giants, guided by experts dedicated to wildlife education and conservation. Perfect for animal lovers and families seeking meaningful outdoor interactions.

Tucked away in the lush landscape of Clonroche, Co. Wexford, Secret Valley Wildlife Park offers a window into the gentle world of some of Ireland’s most captivating creatures. Among the park’s unique offerings, the Capybara Experience stands out for its intimacy and charm.

Over a 40-minute session, visitors can get up close with Guava and Mango, two friendly capybaras—the world’s largest rodents—that weigh as much as a small dog. Their calm demeanor makes them ideal companions for cuddles and feeding, providing a rare chance to connect with nature’s gentlest giants. This interaction isn’t just about petting; it’s an educational journey guided by knowledgeable keepers who share insights into capybara behavior and their role in the local ecosystem.

Designed for just two participants, the experience guarantees a personal and memorable encounter, perfect for families, animal lovers, or anyone craving a hands-on wildlife moment. Secret Valley Wildlife Park is more than a zoo; it’s a dedicated space emphasizing conservation and education. Its focus on small-group experiences makes it stand out in Ireland’s outdoor attraction scene, where visitors can foster genuine connections with animals they might otherwise only see from a distance.

The park’s setting—surrounded by Irish countryside—creates a peaceful backdrop that emphasizes the importance of wildlife preservation while allowing visitors to engage directly with the creatures. Taking part in the Capybara Experience offers a meaningful, memorable addition to any trip in Co. Wexford.

It’s perfect for those seeking a rare, personal encounter with nature’s gentle giants—an experience that combines joy, learning, and ethical animal interaction in a stunning rural setting.

Adventure tips

Plan your experience.

Curated tips for an optimal adventure.

  1. 01
    Arrive Early for a Better Experience

    Arriving at your scheduled time ensures you get the full attention of the keepers and have plenty of time to interact with Guava and Mango.

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  2. 02
    Wear Comfortable, Casual Clothing

    Dressing in casual clothes that can get a little dirty makes feeding and cuddling more enjoyable and relaxed.

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  3. 03
    Bring Sunscreen and Water

    Enjoy your time outdoors without discomfort—sun protection and hydration are key.

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  4. 04
    Respect the Animals’ Comfort

    Follow keepers’ instructions to ensure a safe, enjoyable interaction for both visitors and animals.

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DifficultyEasy
Duration40 minutes
FitnessSuitable for most fitness levels; minimal physical exertion required
Technical skillsNone

Recommended gear

What to bring.

01

Comfortable walking shoes

Essential for ease of movement around the park and during the interaction.

Essential
02

Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)

Protect yourself from sun exposure during daytime interactions.

summer
03

Rain jacket or umbrella

Be prepared for changing weather conditions, especially in shoulder seasons.

spring|fall|winter
04

Camera or smartphone

Capture your special moment with Guava and Mango.

Local insights

Context for the journey.

Hidden gems

Nearby secrets

Visit nearby woods for a secret walking trail, Check out the old barn converted into a local craft shop

Wildlife

Local fauna

Bats and native Irish bird species

History

Historic heritage

The park emphasizes Irish wildlife heritage and ongoing conservation efforts in the region.

Conservation

Mindful exploration

The park prioritizes sustainable practices and habitat preservation, ensuring such interactions support local biodiversity.

Photography tips

Capture the moments

Viewpoints
Near the capybara enclosures, From the park’s main viewing platform
Subjects
The capybaras themselves, The natural surroundings and enclosures
Best times
Morning light or late afternoon for softer shadows, Cloudy days for even lighting

Frequently asked questions

Before you go.

Can I feed the capybaras myself?

Yes, feeding is included in the session, and keepers provide guidance on what and how to feed them safely.

Is this experience suitable for children?

Absolutely, it’s designed for participants of all ages, but children should be supervised at all times.

How close can I get to the animals?

You will have a supervised, hands-on interaction, allowing you to pet and feed Guava and Mango directly.

Are the animals used for photogenic moments?

Yes, the capybaras are very photogenic and relaxed, making for great photo opportunities.

What should I wear during the experience?

Wear comfortable, casual clothing suitable for outdoor activity, with appropriate footwear.

How do I book the experience?

Reservations can be made through their booking system, ensuring a personal, scheduled encounter.

Secret Valley Wildlife Park

Wildlife Encounters at Secret Valley Wildlife Park in Co. Wexford