HOPE HULL ATTRACTION FIELD GUIDE
Face-to-Shell with Aldabra Giants: A Close Encounter at Alabama Safari Park
A short, hands-on visit inside the Aldabra Tortoise exhibit—feed and photograph the park’s massive tortoises while supporting conservation efforts.
Face-to-Shell with Aldabra Giants: A Close Encounter at Alabama Safari Park.
At Alabama Safari Park in Hope Hull you can step into the enclosure of the park’s longest‑living residents and meet Aldabra tortoises up close. The encounter is a deliberately small, scheduled experience that combines hands‑on feeding, interpretation, and photo opportunities with the park’s sizable animals.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Meet the Aldabra Giants
The park’s herd of 11 Aldabra tortoises—each weighing over 300 pounds—are the focus of this encounter; guests learn about their lives while observing these slow, powerful animals at close range.
Hands‑On Feeding and Selfies
Participants enter the tortoise exhibit to offer a favorite snack, touch the animals under supervision, and take memorable photographs—an intimate, tactile way to connect with a threatened species.
A Visit that Supports Conservation
A portion of the encounter proceeds goes toward conservation efforts for this threatened species; the program is ticketed and reservations are strongly recommended due to limited availability.
What the day feels like
What the Encounter Feels Like
The session unfolds as a focused, small‑group visit: guests enter the Aldabra Tortoise exhibit, receive interpretive guidance, offer a treat to the tortoises, and pose for photos. The pace is unhurried—an intimate, tactile experience designed for close observation and a few striking images.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this encounter suits—and who should think twice.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Closed‑toe shoes are recommended; be prepared to walk on uneven terrain inside the exhibit.
$15 per person; reservations are strongly recommended due to limited availability and the program is weather permitting.
Park admission is not included—an admission ticket is required in order to enter the park and participate in the encounter.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How much does the Tortoise Encounter cost?
$15 per person.
When does the encounter run?
The encounter runs daily at 1:30pm.
Is park admission included with the encounter?
No—park admission is not included. An admission ticket is required to enter the park and participate.
Are children allowed to participate?
Yes—participants ages 2 and up may join; children 12 and under must be accompanied by a paying adult.
Are reservations required and is the program weather dependent?
Reservations are strongly recommended because availability is limited; sessions run weather permitting.