Our Explorers' Club is an exciting week-long summer programme for children aged seven to 11, combining hands-on learning, creative activities and unforgettable behind-the-scenes experiences.
This year’s theme is 'Noses and Toes', where young explorers will discover how animals use their senses to survive, communicate and explore the world around them. From super sniffers to sensitive paws, children will learn about the incredible ways animals see, hear, smell, touch and taste - while also creating fun enrichment activities for our animals.
What’s included?
Our young explorers can enjoy:
- animal encounters and interactive sessions
- behind-the-scenes experiences
- guided zoo trails and sensory activities
- creating animal enrichment
- arts and crafts
- conservation and biodiversity learning
- meeting the zookeepers, and
- games, challenges and team activities.
Every day is packed with activities designed to encourage curiosity, creativity and a love for wildlife.
Dates and times
Explorers’ Club 2026 will take place on:
- Monday 6 to Friday 10 July
- Monday 20 to Friday 24 July
- Monday 3 to Friday 7 August
- Monday 17 to Friday 21 August
Sessions run daily from 9.30am to 3.30pm at Belfast Zoo.
Cost
The cost is £150 per child, per week.
A discount is available for additional siblings booked onto the same week. The cost for additional siblings is £135.90.
How to book
You can book and pay for Explorers' Club online.
Book Explorers' Club (link opens in new window)
Important information
Spaces are limited and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. We recommend booking early.
- Terms and conditions
- You must book the Explorers’ Club in advance.
- Full payment is required at the time of booking.
- Activities may vary depending on operational requirements, weather and animal welfare considerations.
- Children must arrive before the advertised start time each day. Sessions will begin promptly.
- Bookings are non-transferable and non-refundable.
- Bookings apply only to the selected week and cannot be exchanged for alternative dates.
- Belfast Zoo reserves the right to amend activities or schedules where necessary.
- Children will be supervised by trained staff throughout the programme.
- Participants must follow all staff instructions and zoo safety guidelines at all times.
- Regular handwashing and disinfectant use may be needed during animal-related activities.
- Children must be able to go to the toilet by themselves and able to alert staff when they need to go.
- Restricted staff-only areas and safety barriers must not be crossed at any time.
- Our Explorers’ Code of Behaviour applies throughout the programme and while on zoo grounds.