Palm Springs Tours and Attraction TicketsYou can book tours for up to 20 people online. For groups of 20 or more people, please contact Group Sales at (760) 831-6910 or Click Here.
Living Desert Zoo and Botanical Gardens
Location:
Palm Desert, CA, United States
Starting From: US $12.75
The Living Desert is a 1200 acre facility that specializes in the plants and animals found throughout the deserts of the world. Many exotic and endangered species can be seen in natural surroundings such as bighorn sheep, oryx, cheetahs, wolves, striped hyenas, thick-billed parrots, leopards and golden eagles.
The botanical gardens represent over 1500 species, indigenous to the arid areas of North America and Africa.
A state-of-the-art wildlife hospital allows visitors to interact with the staff while procedures are being performed on animals.
A children's discovery center and desert play park, live animal shows, endangered species carousel, G-scale garden railroad, and many other features can be found in this unique zoo which sits in the middle of the Coachella Valley, just 15 miles east of Palm Springs.
Daily Schedule November 1 - April 30, 2011
9:00 AM Park Opens
9:30 AM Nature Walk - Meet at the Information Booth next to the Coyote Cafe, Upper Patio
10:00 AM Giraffe Feeding - Giraffe Habitat
11:00 AM Wildlife Wonders Show- Tennity Ampitheater (No entry after show starts)
12:00 PM Animal Presentation - Tennity Wildlife Hospital
12:30 PM Train Chat - Model Train Display
2:00 PM Wildlife Wonder Show - Tennity Ampitheate (No entry after show starts)
2:30 PM Keeper Chat - Details at information booth
3:00 PM Animal Presentation - Hoover Discovery Center
3:00 PM Reptile Show - Village WaTuTu
5:00 PM Park Closes
Marilyn's Merry-Go-Round (Endangered Species Carousel) is open daily from 10 AM - 4 PM ($2 per ride)
It is recommended that you allow 3-4 hours to see the park and participate in some of the daily activities.
The best time to see your favorite animals: Visitors who come to The Living Desert in the early morning are in for some delightful surprises! In the cool of the morning, most of the animals on exhibit are at their peak activity. Playing, some eating breakfast, catching the wind for the scent of other nearby animals, stretching and prowling.
As the day warms up, so do the birds of prey, fanning out their huge marvelous wings to the sun. The tortoises and lizards come out of their hiding places to feel the gentle warmth. Warthogs and javelinas rout and romp in the morning hours, contentedly grunting during nap time in the midday sun.
Meerkats seem to play all afternoon, each taking a turn being the lookout, while the others scamper about.
Late afternoon is the wake up call to nocturnal creatures. The cheetahs often climb to the top of their ridge and majestically watch the sun set.
Have lunch in one of two cafes or bring your own picnic.
Feed the goats in the petting kraal or watch one of the shows.
Don't forget your camera. The animals and gardens at The Living Desert and the surrounding vistas present some breathtaking photo opportunities!
Please remember that this is a desert and as such has extreme temperatures. You should plan your visit according to the season in which you are visiting and the forecasted day's temperatures and dress accordingly. There are many shade trees and misted rest spots throughout the park for your comfort, and even an interactive indoor (nice and cool...the desert at night) exhibit the kids will surely enjoy!
So many things to see and do! So get your now. The Palm Springs Living Desert will inform, motivate and entertain you beyond your expectations.
SPECIAL EVENTS
-
Wildlights - December 2-3, 9-10, 16-23, and 26-31
-
Jazzoo Concert Series - December 11, January 15, 29, February 19, March 11, 15
-
Zoo Camp (Kids 4-15) - December 19-20, 21-22, 26-27, 28-29
Additional Information
Parking:
- There is no charge for parking at the Living Desert.
Age Requirements:
- Child Ticket: 3 to 12 yrs old.
- Discount for Senior Age 62+ and Military (ID required)
- Children under 3 are FREE
Park Rules:
-
Please do not feed or annoy the animals
- No smoking in exhibit buildings, cafes or gift shops
- Visitors are asked to stay on the marked paths and walkways
- Plants are for all to enjoy and are not to be picked or trampled
- NO PETS ALLOWED except for service dogs Do not brings pets and leave them
in your car. Temperatures rise quickly in the desert and can be life threatening
to your pet!
- Drink lots of water
Things to Bring:
- Make sure you wear comfortable walking shoes, preferably closed toe.
Dress accordingly to the season. Summer days can reach well above 100
degrees F / 37 degrees C. Even though most visitors think less clothing
means cooler body temperatures, this is not true. Long sleeve 100%
cotton shirts are the best to keep you cool. Allowing sweat to
completely evaporate from your skin will make you hotter and dehydrate
quicker. Hats, sunscreen, even an umbrella is recommended for all
seasons. Winter day temperatures sometimes warrant a jacket or sweater.
- Don't forget your camera. The animals and gardens at The Living
Desert and the surrounding vistas present some breathtaking photo
opportunities. Film and disposable cameras are available in the gift shop.
Other:
- Paved pathways throughout The Living Desert make exploring accessible
for strollers and wheelchairs.
- Adult wheeled strollers and Zebra-themed
children's strollers are available for a $3.00 donation
- First aid
stations, baby changing stations, pay phones and ATMs are available
- No
locker facilities are available
How to Obtain Your Tickets:
- You have three options for obtaining you Living Desert Tickets:
- You may pick up your Living Desert Tickets at our office in Palm Desert:
74-794 Lennon Place,Suite B, Palm Desert, CA 92260. Please call 760-324-5337 if you need directions.
- You can request that we mail them to you for a modest $1.00 postage and handling fee.
- If you are also booking one of our Jeep Tours, your guide can give you your tickets when you go out on the tour.
The Living Desert is a 1200 acre facility that specializes in the plants and animals found throughout the deserts of the world. Many exotic and endangered species can be seen in natural surroundings such as bighorn sheep, oryx, cheetahs, wolves, striped hyenas, thick-billed parrots, leopards and golden eagles.
The botanical gardens represent over 1500 species, indigenous to the arid areas of North America and Africa.
A state-of-the-art wildlife hospital allows visitors to interact with the staff while procedures are being performed on animals.
A children's discovery center and desert play park, live animal shows, endangered species carousel, G-scale garden railroad, and many other features can be found in this unique zoo which sits in the middle of the Coachella Valley, just 15 miles east of Palm Springs.
Daily Schedule November 1 - April 30, 2011
9:00 AM Park Opens
9:30 AM Nature Walk - Meet at the Information Booth next to the Coyote Cafe, Upper Patio
10:00 AM Giraffe Feeding - Giraffe Habitat
11:00 AM Wildlife Wonders Show- Tennity Ampitheater (No entry after show starts)
12:00 PM Animal Presentation - Tennity Wildlife Hospital
12:30 PM Train Chat - Model Train Display
2:00 PM Wildlife Wonder Show - Tennity Ampitheate (No entry after show starts)
2:30 PM Keeper Chat - Details at information booth
3:00 PM Animal Presentation - Hoover Discovery Center
3:00 PM Reptile Show - Village WaTuTu
5:00 PM Park Closes
Marilyn's Merry-Go-Round (Endangered Species Carousel) is open daily from 10 AM - 4 PM ($2 per ride)
It is recommended that you allow 3-4 hours to see the park and participate in some of the daily activities.
The best time to see your favorite animals: Visitors who come to The Living Desert in the early morning are in for some delightful surprises! In the cool of the morning, most of the animals on exhibit are at their peak activity. Playing, some eating breakfast, catching the wind for the scent of other nearby animals, stretching and prowling.
As the day warms up, so do the birds of prey, fanning out their huge marvelous wings to the sun. The tortoises and lizards come out of their hiding places to feel the gentle warmth. Warthogs and javelinas rout and romp in the morning hours, contentedly grunting during nap time in the midday sun.
Meerkats seem to play all afternoon, each taking a turn being the lookout, while the others scamper about.
Late afternoon is the wake up call to nocturnal creatures. The cheetahs often climb to the top of their ridge and majestically watch the sun set.
Have lunch in one of two cafes or bring your own picnic.
Feed the goats in the petting kraal or watch one of the shows.
Don't forget your camera. The animals and gardens at The Living Desert and the surrounding vistas present some breathtaking photo opportunities!
Please remember that this is a desert and as such has extreme temperatures. You should plan your visit according to the season in which you are visiting and the forecasted day's temperatures and dress accordingly. There are many shade trees and misted rest spots throughout the park for your comfort, and even an interactive indoor (nice and cool...the desert at night) exhibit the kids will surely enjoy!
So many things to see and do! So get your now. The Palm Springs Living Desert will inform, motivate and entertain you beyond your expectations.
SPECIAL EVENTS
-
Wildlights - December 2-3, 9-10, 16-23, and 26-31
-
Jazzoo Concert Series - December 11, January 15, 29, February 19, March 11, 15
-
Zoo Camp (Kids 4-15) - December 19-20, 21-22, 26-27, 28-29
Things To Bring
Clothing: Make sure you wear comfortable walking shoes, preferably closed toe. Dress accordingly to the season. Summer days can reach well above 100 degrees F / 37 degrees C. Even though most visitors think less clothing means cooler body temperatures, this is not true. Long sleeve 100% cotton shirts are the best to keep you cool. Allowing sweat to completely evaporate from your skin will make you hotter and dehydrate quicker. Hats, sunscreen, even an umbrella is recommended for all seasons. Winter day temperatures sometimes warrant a jacket or sweater.
Photographs: Don't forget your camera. The animals and gardens at The Living Desert and the surrounding vistas present some breathtaking photo opportunities. Film and disposable cameras are for sale in the gift shops.
Inclusions
General Admission to the Living Desert Zoo and Botanical Gardens.
Exclusions
Does not include transportation or any food/beverage.
Cancellation Policy
Tickets are non-refundable and valid for one year from date of purchase.
Departs
Open daily 9 AM - 5 PM October - May (last admission 4:00 PM)
Unavailable Dates
Closed December 25
Pickup/Departure
The Living Desert is located at:
47900 Portola Ave
Palm Desert, CA
(760) 346-5694
Nearest intersection: Haystack and Portola Avenue (Palm Desert)
Free parking.
Drop-Off
Same as Departure
Additional Locations
Booking for [General Admission Ticket] on December 31, 1969
Duration: Recommend 3-4 Hours
Availability:
Sorry, there is no availability left for this option

Living Desert Zoo and Botanical Gardens
The Living Desert is a 1200 acre facility that specializes in the plants and animals found throughout the deserts of the world. Many exotic and endangered species can be seen in natural surroundings such as bighorn sheep, oryx, cheetahs, wolves, striped hyenas, thick-billed parrots, leopards and golden eagles.
The botanical gardens represent over 1500 species, indigenous to the arid areas of North America and Africa.
A state-of-the-art wildlife hospital allows visitors to interact with the staff while procedures are being performed on animals.
A children's discovery center and desert play park, live animal shows, endangered species carousel, G-scale garden railroad, and many other features can be found in this unique zoo which sits in the middle of the Coachella Valley, just 15 miles east of Palm Springs.
Daily Schedule November 1 - April 30, 2011
9:00 AM Park Opens
9:30 AM Nature Walk - Meet at the Information Booth next to the Coyote Cafe, Upper Patio
10:00 AM Giraffe Feeding - Giraffe Habitat
11:00 AM Wildlife Wonders Show- Tennity Ampitheater (No entry after show starts)
12:00 PM Animal Presentation - Tennity Wildlife Hospital
12:30 PM Train Chat - Model Train Display
2:00 PM Wildlife Wonder Show - Tennity Ampitheate (No entry after show starts)
2:30 PM Keeper Chat - Details at information booth
3:00 PM Animal Presentation - Hoover Discovery Center
3:00 PM Reptile Show - Village WaTuTu
5:00 PM Park Closes
Marilyn's Merry-Go-Round (Endangered Species Carousel) is open daily from 10 AM - 4 PM ($2 per ride)
It is recommended that you allow 3-4 hours to see the park and participate in some of the daily activities.
The best time to see your favorite animals: Visitors who come to The Living Desert in the early morning are in for some delightful surprises! In the cool of the morning, most of the animals on exhibit are at their peak activity. Playing, some eating breakfast, catching the wind for the scent of other nearby animals, stretching and prowling.
As the day warms up, so do the birds of prey, fanning out their huge marvelous wings to the sun. The tortoises and lizards come out of their hiding places to feel the gentle warmth. Warthogs and javelinas rout and romp in the morning hours, contentedly grunting during nap time in the midday sun.
Meerkats seem to play all afternoon, each taking a turn being the lookout, while the others scamper about.
Late afternoon is the wake up call to nocturnal creatures. The cheetahs often climb to the top of their ridge and majestically watch the sun set.
Have lunch in one of two cafes or bring your own picnic.
Feed the goats in the petting kraal or watch one of the shows.
Don't forget your camera. The animals and gardens at The Living Desert and the surrounding vistas present some breathtaking photo opportunities!
Please remember that this is a desert and as such has extreme temperatures. You should plan your visit according to the season in which you are visiting and the forecasted day's temperatures and dress accordingly. There are many shade trees and misted rest spots throughout the park for your comfort, and even an interactive indoor (nice and cool...the desert at night) exhibit the kids will surely enjoy!
So many things to see and do! So get your now. The Palm Springs Living Desert will inform, motivate and entertain you beyond your expectations.
SPECIAL EVENTS
- Wildlights - December 2-3, 9-10, 16-23, and 26-31
- Jazzoo Concert Series - December 11, January 15, 29, February 19, March 11, 15
- Zoo Camp (Kids 4-15) - December 19-20, 21-22, 26-27, 28-29
Additional Information
Parking:
- There is no charge for parking at the Living Desert.
Age Requirements:
- Child Ticket: 3 to 12 yrs old.
- Discount for Senior Age 62+ and Military (ID required)
- Children under 3 are FREE
Park Rules:
- Please do not feed or annoy the animals
- No smoking in exhibit buildings, cafes or gift shops
- Visitors are asked to stay on the marked paths and walkways
- Plants are for all to enjoy and are not to be picked or trampled
- NO PETS ALLOWED except for service dogs Do not brings pets and leave them in your car. Temperatures rise quickly in the desert and can be life threatening to your pet!
- Drink lots of water
Things to Bring:
- Make sure you wear comfortable walking shoes, preferably closed toe. Dress accordingly to the season. Summer days can reach well above 100 degrees F / 37 degrees C. Even though most visitors think less clothing means cooler body temperatures, this is not true. Long sleeve 100% cotton shirts are the best to keep you cool. Allowing sweat to completely evaporate from your skin will make you hotter and dehydrate quicker. Hats, sunscreen, even an umbrella is recommended for all seasons. Winter day temperatures sometimes warrant a jacket or sweater.
- Don't forget your camera. The animals and gardens at The Living Desert and the surrounding vistas present some breathtaking photo opportunities. Film and disposable cameras are available in the gift shop.
Other:
- Paved pathways throughout The Living Desert make exploring accessible
for strollers and wheelchairs.
- Adult wheeled strollers and Zebra-themed children's strollers are available for a $3.00 donation
- First aid stations, baby changing stations, pay phones and ATMs are available
- No locker facilities are available
How to Obtain Your Tickets:
- You have three options for obtaining you Living Desert Tickets:
- You may pick up your Living Desert Tickets at our office in Palm Desert:
74-794 Lennon Place,Suite B, Palm Desert, CA 92260. Please call 760-324-5337 if you need directions. - You can request that we mail them to you for a modest $1.00 postage and handling fee.
- If you are also booking one of our Jeep Tours, your guide can give you your tickets when you go out on the tour.
The Living Desert is a 1200 acre facility that specializes in the plants and animals found throughout the deserts of the world. Many exotic and endangered species can be seen in natural surroundings such as bighorn sheep, oryx, cheetahs, wolves, striped hyenas, thick-billed parrots, leopards and golden eagles.
The botanical gardens represent over 1500 species, indigenous to the arid areas of North America and Africa.
A state-of-the-art wildlife hospital allows visitors to interact with the staff while procedures are being performed on animals.
A children's discovery center and desert play park, live animal shows, endangered species carousel, G-scale garden railroad, and many other features can be found in this unique zoo which sits in the middle of the Coachella Valley, just 15 miles east of Palm Springs.
Daily Schedule November 1 - April 30, 2011
9:00 AM Park Opens
9:30 AM Nature Walk - Meet at the Information Booth next to the Coyote Cafe, Upper Patio
10:00 AM Giraffe Feeding - Giraffe Habitat
11:00 AM Wildlife Wonders Show- Tennity Ampitheater (No entry after show starts)
12:00 PM Animal Presentation - Tennity Wildlife Hospital
12:30 PM Train Chat - Model Train Display
2:00 PM Wildlife Wonder Show - Tennity Ampitheate (No entry after show starts)
2:30 PM Keeper Chat - Details at information booth
3:00 PM Animal Presentation - Hoover Discovery Center
3:00 PM Reptile Show - Village WaTuTu
5:00 PM Park Closes
Marilyn's Merry-Go-Round (Endangered Species Carousel) is open daily from 10 AM - 4 PM ($2 per ride)
It is recommended that you allow 3-4 hours to see the park and participate in some of the daily activities.
The best time to see your favorite animals: Visitors who come to The Living Desert in the early morning are in for some delightful surprises! In the cool of the morning, most of the animals on exhibit are at their peak activity. Playing, some eating breakfast, catching the wind for the scent of other nearby animals, stretching and prowling.
As the day warms up, so do the birds of prey, fanning out their huge marvelous wings to the sun. The tortoises and lizards come out of their hiding places to feel the gentle warmth. Warthogs and javelinas rout and romp in the morning hours, contentedly grunting during nap time in the midday sun.
Meerkats seem to play all afternoon, each taking a turn being the lookout, while the others scamper about.
Late afternoon is the wake up call to nocturnal creatures. The cheetahs often climb to the top of their ridge and majestically watch the sun set.
Have lunch in one of two cafes or bring your own picnic.
Feed the goats in the petting kraal or watch one of the shows.
Don't forget your camera. The animals and gardens at The Living Desert and the surrounding vistas present some breathtaking photo opportunities!
Please remember that this is a desert and as such has extreme temperatures. You should plan your visit according to the season in which you are visiting and the forecasted day's temperatures and dress accordingly. There are many shade trees and misted rest spots throughout the park for your comfort, and even an interactive indoor (nice and cool...the desert at night) exhibit the kids will surely enjoy!
So many things to see and do! So get your now. The Palm Springs Living Desert will inform, motivate and entertain you beyond your expectations.
SPECIAL EVENTS
- Wildlights - December 2-3, 9-10, 16-23, and 26-31
- Jazzoo Concert Series - December 11, January 15, 29, February 19, March 11, 15
- Zoo Camp (Kids 4-15) - December 19-20, 21-22, 26-27, 28-29
Things To Bring
Clothing: Make sure you wear comfortable walking shoes, preferably closed toe. Dress accordingly to the season. Summer days can reach well above 100 degrees F / 37 degrees C. Even though most visitors think less clothing means cooler body temperatures, this is not true. Long sleeve 100% cotton shirts are the best to keep you cool. Allowing sweat to completely evaporate from your skin will make you hotter and dehydrate quicker. Hats, sunscreen, even an umbrella is recommended for all seasons. Winter day temperatures sometimes warrant a jacket or sweater.
Photographs: Don't forget your camera. The animals and gardens at The Living Desert and the surrounding vistas present some breathtaking photo opportunities. Film and disposable cameras are for sale in the gift shops.
Inclusions
General Admission to the Living Desert Zoo and Botanical Gardens.
Exclusions
Does not include transportation or any food/beverage.
Cancellation Policy
Tickets are non-refundable and valid for one year from date of purchase.
Departs
Open daily 9 AM - 5 PM October - May (last admission 4:00 PM)
Unavailable Dates
Closed December 25
Pickup/Departure
The Living Desert is located at:
47900 Portola Ave
Palm Desert, CA
(760) 346-5694
Nearest intersection: Haystack and Portola Avenue (Palm Desert)
Free parking.
Drop-Off
Same as Departure
Additional Locations
