#United States #San Antonio #San Antonio Zoo #Congo Falls #Gorilla Habitat

A World-First Look at Congo Falls

San Antonio Zoo has made a substantial stride in wildlife conservation and innovative design by unveiling Congo Falls, the newest gorilla habitat, on December 13, 2025. This monumental addition marks the return of gorillas to the zoo after a 30-year hiatus, setting the stage for a transformative era in both animal care and guest experiences.

Exploring Congo Falls

Spanning across two acres, Congo Falls features three distinct environments: the Lowland Basin, Indoor Rainforest, and Gorilla Gorge. These habitats are designed not only for the aesthetic pleasure of the guests but also to foster an enriching experience for the gorillas. With lush natural landscapes, dynamic water features, and various enrichment areas, the habitat encourages deeper bonds between visitors and these magnificent animals.

One of the most striking features of the habitat is the Mays Family Silverback Peak, a towering structure at over 70 feet high, claiming the title of the tallest gorilla tower in the world. From this peak, the gorillas will have a stunning view of the San Antonio skyline. What adds a compelling historical facet to the construction is the unexpected discovery of limestone during excavation—a stone that originates from the same quarry that once supplied materials for the iconic Alamo, establishing a rich connection between the zoo and the city’s heritage.

A Grand Celebration

The opening day of Congo Falls promises to be a festive occasion, highlighted by an awe-inspiring 15-minute drone show that will light up the night sky with vibrant visuals celebrating gorillas, conservation, and adventure. This spectacular event is free for zoo members and included with general admission, signifying the zoo's dedication to accessibility and community involvement.

Tim Morrow, President and CEO of San Antonio Zoo, expressed his excitement, stating, "Congo Falls is not just an attraction; it embodies our commitment to ensuring a future for wildlife. This world-class habitat allows guests to connect with gorillas in an unprecedented way, sparking curiosity and a profound appreciation for these amazing species. Our journey with Congo Falls is a labor of love and a historic milestone for both our zoo and global conservation efforts."

Commitment to Conservation

Congo Falls epitomizes San Antonio Zoo's unwavering support for the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ (AZA) Species Survival Plan® and SAFE (Saving Animals from Extinction) programs. Through collaboration with esteemed conservation partners like the Gorilla Rehabilitation and Conservation Education Center (GRACE) in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, and the AZA Gorilla SAFE program, San Antonio Zoo is dedicated to ensuring the survival of genetically diverse gorilla populations and advancing efforts in habitat protection, education, and animal care innovation.

In honor of this monumental opening, the zoo will also launch a new podcast series titled Edge of the Earth: Tales of Conservation. The show will be hosted by Dr. Danté Fenolio, Vice President of the Center for Conservation Research, and his daughter, Sierra Fenolio. It aims to shed light on the science and stories that underscore wildlife conservation, bridging the zoo's local initiatives with global efforts to ensure the safety of various species. The podcast will be available on platforms such as Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Audible, and YouTube.

About San Antonio Zoo

Operating since 1914, San Antonio Zoo is a philanthropic zoological facility committed to the future of wildlife. The zoo strives to inspire communities to appreciate, engage with, and advocate for animals and their habitats. Each year, it welcomes over a million visitors, providing them with an opportunity to connect with wildlife throughout the year. San Antonio Zoo is accredited by several prestigious organizations and continues to set a benchmark in conservation and animal care. To learn more, visit sazoo.org.