Congo Falls at San Antonio Zoo is a bold new chapter in the zoo’s 111 year history. This world class habitat brings gorillas back to San Antonio in a way that feels thoughtful, immersive, and deeply connected to conservation. From towering climbing structures to flowing waterfalls and lush browsing gardens, Congo Falls sets a new standard for animal care and guest experience.

The moment you arrive, it is clear this is not a traditional exhibit. It feels like a place where wildlife leads the way and guests are invited to observe, learn, and connect.

Meet the Gorillas of Congo Falls

Congo Falls is home to two troops of incredible gorillas! Our family troop consists of Ajari, Anaka, Andi, and Merry Leigh. B’Wenzi, Juba, and Shana are in our bachelor group! 

You might see one lounging in the shade, another climbing high above the habitat, or a quiet moment where two gorillas sit side by side just taking it all in. There is no set schedule or perfect viewing moment, and that is part of what makes it special. You are seeing real behavior unfold in real time.

The Gorilla Tower That Changes the View

One of the most striking features of Congo Falls is the Mays Family Silverback Peak. This revolutionary 70 foot tall gorilla tower is the first of its kind in the world. It allows gorillas to climb from their open air habitat up to an observation area at the top of the cliff wall.

From this elevated space, gorillas can take in panoramic views of the San Antonio skyline and The Ralston, the zoo’s event center. It is a powerful reminder that animals deserve complexity and choice in their environments.

For guests, Silverback Peak offers a rare opportunity to see gorillas at different elevations and angles. Watching a gorilla climb and perch high above the habitat adds an entirely new dimension to the experience.

A Habitat Built to Inspire Natural Behavior

Congo Falls was designed with animal behavior at the forefront. The habitat features interactive browsing gardens, climbing structures, shaded resting areas, and flowing waterfalls that mimic elements found in Central African environments.

These features encourage exploration, problem solving, and physical activity. Gorillas can choose how they move through the space, where they rest, and how they interact with their surroundings. This level of choice is essential to modern animal care and contributes to both physical and mental wellbeing.

For guests, the result is a more engaging visit. You are not looking at a static scene. You are witnessing life unfold in real time.

Multiple Vantage Points for Guests

One of the most exciting aspects of Congo Falls is how many ways there are to experience it. Elevated viewpoints, ground level paths, and glass viewing areas allow guests to observe gorillas from different perspectives.

This design keeps the experience fresh as you move through the habitat. You may see a gorilla resting near the water from one angle, then spot another climbing high above moments later. It encourages you to slow down, look closely, and stay curious.

Photography lovers will especially appreciate the natural backdrops and unobstructed views that make it easier to capture meaningful moments.

ZooBand Enhances the Congo Falls Experience

Exploring Congo Falls is even more engaging with ZooBand. This wearable technology helps guests move through the habitat with ease while unlocking interactive experiences along the way.

One standout feature is a creative digital station where ZooBand activates a large screen and drawing pad. Guests can create their own artwork, which is instantly transformed into gorilla-inspired art displayed on the screen. 

An Unexpected Link to San Antonio History

During the construction of Congo Falls, crews made an unexpected historical discovery. Excavation revealed limestone from the same quarry that supplied stone for the construction of the Alamo more than 300 years ago.

This finding adds a meaningful layer to the habitat. It connects Congo Falls not only to wildlife conservation but also to San Antonio’s deep and rich history. Few places offer such a powerful blend of past, present, and future within one space.

Conservation at the Core

Congo Falls is rooted in conservation. Gorillas in the wild face serious threats from habitat loss, illegal mining, and environmental pressures. San Antonio Zoo uses this habitat as a platform to educate guests about these challenges and inspire action.

One of the most impactful initiatives connected to Congo Falls is Gorillas on the Line. This global cell phone recycling campaign is led by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums in partnership with eco cell.

The program raises awareness about the connection between everyday electronics and gorilla conservation. Mining for coltan, a material used in cell phones and other devices, contributes to habitat destruction in regions where critically endangered gorillas live.

How You Can Help Gorillas in the Wild

One easy way guests can make a difference is by taking part in Gorillas on the Line. This global cell phone recycling program connects everyday electronics to gorilla conservation.

Mining for materials used in phones and devices contributes to habitat loss in areas where gorillas live. By recycling old phones, tablets, chargers, and small electronics, you help reduce that impact.

San Antonio Zoo has a drop off station near the Congo Falls entrance, and staff members are always happy to point you in the right direction. It is a simple action that supports a bigger cause.

Make Congo Falls Part of Your Everyday Zoo Experience

Congo Falls is the kind of place you want to visit more than once. Each day brings different moments, different movements, and new chances to connect with the gorillas who call this habitat home.

A San Antonio Zoo membership makes that easy. Members enjoy unlimited visits, special access to events, and the freedom to stop by Congo Falls whenever the mood strikes. You can pop in for a short visit, bring friends or family along, and experience the habitat in every season.

Membership also supports the care of the animals you love and the conservation work happening both at the zoo and in the wild. It’s a simple way to stay connected while giving back.

If you are ready to turn moments like this into a regular part of your routine, explore San Antonio Zoo membership options and join the community that helps make experiences like Congo Falls possible.