Enrichment Tour

The Enrichment Tour at LIONSROCK Big Cat Sanctuary offers a hands-on experience that allows visitors to actively engage with the resident big cats. Guided by a knowledgeable host, participants craft enrichment items designed to stimulate the animals’ natural behaviors. After distributing these toys and treats, guests witness the delightful interactions as the cats explore their new playthings. This immersive experience not only enhances the well-being of the animals but also provides valuable insights into the sanctuary’s conservation efforts. Those interested in learning more about the important role of enrichment in big cat welfare won’t want to miss this unique opportunity.

Good To Know

• Immersive experience at LIONSROCK Big Cat Sanctuary, allowing participants to create enrichment items and observe big cats interacting with them.
• Guided tour led by an English-speaking guide, with hands-on activities and opportunities to learn about animal welfare and conservation efforts.
• Participants can distribute the enrichment items they created to the big cats, gaining insights into the individual stories and behaviors of the animals.
• The tour provides a memorable interaction with the big cats and a chance to contribute to their well-being through the creation and distribution of enrichment items.
• The tour is suitable for adults, with a small group size of up to 10 participants and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the event.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Enrichment Tour offers an immersive experience at the LIONSROCK Big Cat Sanctuary, priced at $17.24 per person.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, a reserve now and pay later option, and a valid duration of 1 day, the tour is limited to 10 participants in a small group.

Led by a live English-speaking guide, the tour provides an opportunity to create enrichment items for the big cats, learn about their importance, and observe the animals interacting with the items.

Guests can also explore the sanctuary’s work and hear the stories of the big cats.

Activity Highlights

During the Enrichment Tour, participants have the opportunity to create enrichment items for the big cats. These items are designed to stimulate the animals’ natural behaviors and provide mental and physical enrichment. Participants will learn about the importance of enrichment and then join the caretakers to distribute the created items to the big cats, observing their interactions. The tour also includes the chance to learn about the individual stories of the big cats and the sanctuary’s ongoing work in animal welfare and conservation.

Activity	Description	Importance
Creating Enrichment Items	Participants engage in hands-on activities to make enrichment items for the big cats.	Provides mental and physical stimulation for the animals.
Distributing Enrichment	Caretakers guide participants in placing the items in the enclosures for the big cats to interact with.	Allows observation of the animals’ natural behaviors and responses to the enrichment.
Learning About Big Cats	Participants gain insights into the individual stories and sanctuary initiatives.	Fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation for the big cats and their well-being.

Experience Description

Upon arrival at the LIONSROCK Big Cat Sanctuary, visitors receive a warm welcome at the reception and are invited to watch a pre-tour video that provides an introduction to the enrichment experience.

Next, participants actively engage in creating enrichment items for the Big Cats.

The tour then continues as visitors join the caretakers in an open vehicle to distribute the created items.

This hands-on experience allows visitors to observe the Big Cats interacting with the enrichment, providing an engaging and memorable opportunity to learn about the sanctuary’s work and the importance of enrichment for the animals’ wellbeing.

Inclusions

The Enrichment Tour includes a guided tour of the LIONSROCK Big Cat Sanctuary, allowing visitors to create and distribute enrichment items for the big cats.

The tour also provides access to the on-site bar and restaurant, enabling guests to enjoy meals before or after the experience.

The inclusions of this tour are:

• Guided tour of the LIONSROCK Big Cat Sanctuary
• Participation in creating enrichment items for the big cats
• Distribution of the created items and observation of the big cats’ interaction
• Access to the on-site bar and restaurant for meals
• Engaging and memorable experience with a live tour guide in English.

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Important Information

The Enrichment Tour isn’t suitable for children under 14 years.

Participants should bring their passport or ID card and wear comfortable shoes. Guests are advised to check availability for starting times and reserve their spot in advance.

The tour offers a small group experience, limited to 10 participants, with a live English-speaking guide.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the tour, and a reserve now, pay later option is available.

The tour is valid for 1 day and provides access to the on-site bar and restaurant for meals before or after the experience.

Creating Enrichment Items

Guests embark on the Enrichment Tour by first creating enrichment items for the Big Cats. These items are designed to stimulate the animals’ natural behaviors and provide them with mental and physical stimulation.

The activity involves:

• Shredding cardboard boxes
• Stuffing paper bags with straw
• Crafting scented pinecones
• Assembling feeder puzzles
• Decorating enrichment balls

Participants work closely with the caretakers, learning about the importance of enrichment and how it enhances the well-being of the sanctuary’s feline residents.

This hands-on experience sets the stage for the next phase of the tour, where guests observe the Big Cats interacting with the enrichment items they created.

Distributing Enrichment Items

After creating the enrichment items, participants then join the caretakers aboard an open vehicle and head out to distribute the items throughout the Big Cats’ enclosures. This is a thrilling opportunity to observe the Big Cats interacting with the toys and treats the group has made. The caretakers provide insights into the importance of enrichment and the individual stories of the rescued animals.

Big Cat	Enrichment Item	Behavior Observed
Simba	Puzzle Feeder	Engaged, Playful
Zena	Scented Log	Sniffing, Rubbing
Misha	Cardboard Tube	Batting, Rolling
Kovu	Hanging Basket	Jumping, Pouncing
Nala	Grass Mound	Lounging, Chewing

This hands-on experience allows participants to directly contribute to the Big Cats’ well-being and gain a deeper appreciation for the sanctuary’s important work.

Observing Big Cats

As the enrichment items are distributed throughout the enclosures, participants eagerly observe the Big Cats’ interactions. The Big Cats approach the new objects with curiosity, sniffing and pawing at them.

Observers note:

• Chuffing and vocalizations as the cats engage with the enrichment
• Playful batting and rolling behavior, especially in the younger cats
• Careful inspection and manipulation of the items, demonstrating the cats’ intelligence
• Differences in individual preferences and reaction times among the various Big Cats
• Caretakers providing commentary on the cats’ behaviors and the importance of enrichment

This hands-on experience allows visitors to appreciate the complex needs and personalities of the rescued Big Cats at LIONSROCK Sanctuary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Interact Directly With the Big Cats?

No, visitors cannot directly interact with the Big Cats during the Enrichment Tour. The tour focuses on creating and distributing enrichment items for the cats to observe their interactions, rather than direct contact with the animals.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour has an age restriction – it’s not suitable for children under 14 years old. Participants must be at least 14 years old to join this tour and experience creating enrichment items for the big cats.

What Is the Cancellation Policy in Case of Emergencies?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in case of emergencies. Participants can reserve now and pay later to secure their spot on the tour.

Are Professional Photography Opportunities Available During the Tour?

The tour does not explicitly mention professional photography opportunities. However, guests are encouraged to take photos and capture their experience at the sanctuary during the tour, within the guidelines provided by the staff.

Are There Any Dietary Requirements or Options for the Onsite Meals?

The website notes that the tour includes access to the onsite bar and restaurant for meals before or after the tour, but doesn’t specify any dietary requirements or options. Guests should check with the tour provider for any special accommodations.

The Sum Up

The Enrichment Tour at LIONSROCK Big Cat Sanctuary offers a unique opportunity to actively engage in creating enrichment items for the resident big cats. Participants craft toys and treats, then witness the delightful interactions as the cats enjoy their new items. This hands-on experience not only enhances the animals’ well-being but also provides valuable insights into their individual stories and the sanctuary’s conservation efforts.

You can check availability for your dates here: