San Antonio, Texas, December 16, 2025
The grand opening of the San Antonio Zoo’s Congo Falls attracted nearly 30,000 visitors, marking the return of gorillas to the zoo for the first time in over 30 years. With a two-acre habitat featuring immersive viewing experiences and innovative designs, the exhibit showcases the zoo’s commitment to conservation and education. The event aligns with the zoo’s master plan to enhance habitats and engage the community with wildlife. The Congo Falls exhibit is home to seven western lowland gorillas, relocated as part of a conservation initiative.
San Antonio Zoo’s Congo Falls Draws Crowd for Grand Opening
Nearly 30,000 Visitors Celebrate the Return of Gorillas
San Antonio, Texas – The San Antonio Zoo’s newly opened gorilla habitat, Congo Falls, captivated nearly 30,000 visitors during its grand debut on December 13-14, 2025. This marks a significant occasion as it is the first time in over 30 years that gorillas have been part of the zoo’s exhibits, showcasing a remarkable commitment to conservation and animal welfare.
Exhibit Details
Congo Falls spans two acres and features three distinct areas: Lowland Basin, Indoor Rainforest, and Gorilla Gorge. Notably, the habitat includes a spectacular 30-foot waterfall with a pool for water play, along with the Mays Family Silverback Peak, a 70-foot climbing structure designed to promote natural behaviors in the gorillas. This carefully crafted environment is home to seven western lowland gorillas, each relocated from various accredited zoos as part of the Association of Zoos & Aquariums’ Species Survival Plan, aimed at preserving this critically endangered species.
Visitor Experience
Guests at Congo Falls enjoy a uniquely immersive experience that deepens their connection with wildlife. The exhibit boasts expansive viewing opportunities, including a 360-degree walkway and the title of the tallest gorilla tower in the world, allowing visitors unparalleled perspectives of the gorillas as they engage in their natural behaviors. Such innovations are not just for show; they reflect the zoo’s mission to enhance educational opportunities while providing an enjoyable experience for families and individual visitors alike.
Background
The reintroduction of gorillas to the San Antonio Zoo is a significant milestone. Gorillas were last part of the zoo’s offerings in 1990, and their return aligns seamlessly with the zoo’s master plan initiated in 2018. This plan emphasizes innovative habitat design, animal conservation, and educational endeavors tailored to enrich the visitor experience. Ongoing enhancements include art installations and sculptures, like a bronze gorilla statue at the entrance and a vibrant mural created by University of Texas at San Antonio students.
Visitor Information
The San Antonio Zoo is open year-round, welcoming over a million visitors annually. For those interested in planning a visit, information on hours, ticket prices, and upcoming events can be found on the zoo’s official website.
Key Takeaways
Congo Falls serves as a shining example of how local initiatives can invigorate a community and inspire civic engagement. The return of the gorillas not only highlights a successful collaboration among various zoos but also reflects the undying passion of San Antonio residents for wildlife conservation and education. It is a testament to how reduced bureaucracy can aid in swiftly bringing captivating attractions to our community, fostering an environment that prioritizes individual initiative and partnership.
FAQ
What is Congo Falls?
Congo Falls is a new two-acre gorilla habitat at the San Antonio Zoo, featuring three distinct areas: Lowland Basin, Indoor Rainforest, and Gorilla Gorge. It includes a 30-foot waterfall and the Mays Family Silverback Peak, a 70-foot tower designed to encourage natural climbing behaviors among the gorillas.
How many visitors attended the opening weekend?
Nearly 30,000 visitors attended the opening weekend of Congo Falls on December 13-14, 2025.
Who are the gorillas in Congo Falls?
The exhibit is home to seven western lowland gorillas: Andi, Merry, and Anaka from Zoo Atlanta; Ajari from the Houston Zoo; and B’wenzi, Juba, and Shana from the Dallas Zoo.
Why were these gorillas relocated to San Antonio Zoo?
The relocation is part of the Association of Zoos & Aquariums’ Species Survival Plan, aimed at conserving critically endangered species and ensuring genetically healthy, sustainable populations in accredited zoos.
What other attractions are available at the San Antonio Zoo?
In addition to Congo Falls, the zoo offers various exhibits, including the Naylor Savanna habitat, which provides twice the space for giraffes and rhinos, and the restored Monkey House. The zoo also features art installations like a bronze gorilla sculpture at the entrance and a mural by University of Texas at San Antonio students.
Key Features of Congo Falls
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Size | Two-acre habitat |
| Distinct Areas | Lowland Basin, Indoor Rainforest, Gorilla Gorge |
| Waterfall | 30-foot waterfall with a pool for water play |
| Gorilla Tower | Mays Family Silverback Peak, a 70-foot tower |
| Gorilla Residents | Seven western lowland gorillas from various zoos |
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Author: STAFF HERE SAN ANTONIO WRITER
The SAN ANTONIO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanAntonio.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Antonio, Bexar County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Fiesta San Antonio, San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, and Dia de los Muertos. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County, plus leading businesses in retail, insurance, and energy that power the local economy such as H-E-B, USAA, and Valero Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HEREHouston.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
