The 51-lodge safari-style accommodation, called The Reserve at Chester Zoo, is set to officially open to the public in August 2025, and people can now book a stay in it
Chester Zoo has just shared some stunning artist’s impressions of its upcoming overnight safari-style lodge accommodation, set to open doors in August.
The visuals offer a sneak peek at the much-awaited 51-lodge wildlife retreat, dubbed The Reserve at Chester Zoo, which is scheduled for an official launch in August 2025.
Keen visitors can start booking their stay from 9am today (January 29), with a variety of packages on offer. However, many have been left started over the price.
Packages include behind-the-scenes peeks and animal encounters, as well as opportunities to rub shoulders with conservation experts and enjoy special after-hours access to the zoo – but many can’t believe the cost of them.
A selection of lodges, accommodating up to nine guests, will be up for grabs. Many will boast lakeside positions, while others will offer views over a private savannah-esque area, where Northern giraffes roam.
The creators of The Reserve tout it as a “very special” initiative that will bolster Chester Zoo’s worldwide conservation efforts. Crafted from natural and sustainable materials, the lodges’ interiors are said to draw inspiration from African landscapes, reflecting the regions where the zoo aids endangered species.
Adding to the opulence, the resort will feature a reception and The Amboseli Restaurant – its name tipping a hat to the Kenyan region where the zoo helps protect lions. Guests can also indulge in lakeside refreshments at the Tsavo Lounge.
The lodges have been a hit online, with photos shared on Instagram garnering positive reactions. One user exclaimed: “This looks great.” While another tagged their partner suggesting a “date night” at the location.
A further individual implored their significant other to make a booking, simply writing: “Please!” However, despite the excitement, Chester Zoo has faced some backlash over the pricing of the lodges.
It was previously stated that prices would “start from £375 a night off season based on two people staying”. Yet, the official booking site recently displayed the lowest prices for mid-week dates in August, during peak school holiday season, as £576.20 for two people, or from £1,000 for a family of two adults and two children for an overnight stay in a lakeside lodge, according to MEN.
Those wishing to stay in a more luxurious giraffe view lodge will need to shell out £1,319.20 in August based on four people staying, or from £867 for two people.
One person commented online: “These prices are totally ridiculous… could go on an actual safari abroad.” While another quipped: “£1,000 for a family of a Saturday night in August? Do I get to take home a giraffe for that price?”
A third chimed in: “I know you rely on public funding but I can get plane tickets for 2 weeks to South Africa for the price for a week (family of 6) such a shame I was looking forward to booking for my 30th.”
“As an international wildlife charity we wholly rely on public funding to carry out our species-saving work. The Reserve is the latest way that people may wish to help to directly fund our global conservation projects and make a difference to the future of some amazing, but sadly endangered, species.
“We’ve partnered with experts from the hospitality industry to ensure that our pricing is in line with other equivalent experiences in the UK, and overseas, with prices for a stay starting from £375 per night based on two sharing in the low season.
“A stay at The Reserve includes so much more than a room for the night. Packages include elements such as a range of exclusive animal experiences, breakfast, dinner, and out-of-hours access to the zoo, as well as two-day passes and the chance to view wildlife straight from your lodge balcony.”
Jamie Christon, CEO at Chester Zoo, also said in a statement: “There’s nothing else quite like The Reserve at Chester Zoo in the UK. It’s so much more than just a short break – it’ll provide guests with unforgettable experiences and bring them face-to-face with extraordinary animals, all while helping to protect the wild world and fund powerful conservation action.”
“Guests will be able to wake up in luxurious surroundings and enjoy sunrise views across a private savannah and the chance to view wildlife straight from their lodge balcony. They’ll have special, out-of-hours access to the zoo, the opportunity to engage in a range of behind-the-scenes and animal experiences and be able to enjoy a freshly prepared meals, before taking in conservation stories while relaxing by our fire-pit on our lakeside terrace with blankets, cushions and toasting marshmallows. It’s the ultimate African safari experience, right here in the UK.
