Tanganyika Wildlife Park | Wichita

Tanganyika Wildlife Park – Goddard, Kansas

Tanganyika Wildlife Park is a privately owned wildlife facility located in Goddard, just west of Wichita, Kansas. Covering approximately 50 acres, the park offers immersive animal encounters, interactive exhibits, and educational programs, making it a favorite destination for families, animal lovers, and school groups. Its focus on hands-on experiences sets it apart from traditional zoos, allowing visitors to connect directly with a wide variety of species.

Setting and Atmosphere

The park is set amid open fields and naturalistic enclosures that combine landscaped areas with shaded paths, creating an inviting and accessible environment. Visitors often notice the sense of intimacy and approachability, with animals visible from multiple vantage points and staff nearby to guide interactions. The atmosphere is lively, filled with the sounds of exotic birds, playful primates, and the chatter of families exploring the exhibits.

Landscaping throughout the park emphasizes greenery and natural elements, with trees, ponds, and meandering walkways enhancing the immersive experience.

Animal Collection and Exhibits

Tanganyika Wildlife Park hosts over 400 animals from around the world, featuring mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians. Exhibits are organized by species type or interactive experience:

African Savannah: Giraffes, zebras, and other African species are featured in open enclosures that allow close observation. Visitors can often feed giraffes by hand under staff supervision.

Primates: Lemurs, capuchins, and other monkeys inhabit climbing structures and forested areas. Interactive feeding and enrichment activities highlight primate behavior.

Reptiles and Amphibians: Snakes, lizards, turtles, and frogs are displayed in educational habitats with informational signage about ecology, conservation, and care.

Bird Aviaries: Exotic birds, including macaws, cockatoos, and parrots, fly freely in large aviaries, with opportunities for photo interaction and learning about their diets and habitats.

Farm and Domestic Animals: Petting areas include goats, sheep, and miniature donkeys, offering children direct interaction and hands-on learning about domesticated species.

Special experiences, such as animal encounters and keeper talks, allow visitors to feed, touch, and learn about selected animals, emphasizing education and conservation.

Education and Conservation

Tanganyika Wildlife Park is committed to animal education, conservation awareness, and interactive learning. Programs include:

School and Group Tours: Structured visits with guided animal encounters and educational talks.

Summer Camps and Workshops: Hands-on activities teach children about animal biology, habitat conservation, and wildlife care.

Conservation Messages: Informational signage and staff-led presentations educate visitors on endangered species, habitat protection, and ethical animal stewardship.

The park emphasizes safe and respectful interactions while fostering curiosity and appreciation for wildlife.

Visitor Experience

A visit to Tanganyika Wildlife Park is highly interactive and family-oriented. Guests can feed giraffes, hand-feed lorikeets, and observe monkeys in dynamic climbing enclosures. Walking paths are well-maintained, and the layout encourages exploration, with benches, shaded areas, and picnic spots along the way. Seasonal events and themed experiences, such as birthday parties or holiday encounters, add to the park’s appeal for repeat visitors.

The staff actively engages with visitors, providing information about animal care, behavior, and conservation, making each visit both entertaining and educational.

Visitor Information

Location: 3333 N. Woodlawn Blvd, Goddard, Kansas

Hours: Open daily, with seasonal variations; extended hours during summer months

Parking: Free on-site parking

Accessibility: Paths are wheelchair accessible; interactive exhibits accommodate visitors of all ages and abilities

Tanganyika Wildlife Park offers a hands-on, immersive wildlife experience that blends education, recreation, and conservation awareness. Its approachable atmosphere, diverse animal collection, and interactive programs make it a standout destination near Wichita, providing memorable encounters for families, students, and wildlife enthusiasts alike.