Secret Valley Wildlife Park in County Wexford, Ireland

Other ArticlesTravel and TourismWildlife and National Parks

Mar 19

Tucked away in the sunny southeast of Ireland lies a treasure trove of fun and discovery—Secret Valley Wildlife Park. Just a short drive from Dublin and close to Waterford, Kilkenny, Carlow, and Wexford town, this award-winning wildlife haven spans 14 acres of gorgeous countryside. Whether you're an animal lover, a family with curious kids, or someone who simply wants a unique day out, Secret Valley Wildlife Park offers a magical experience. From hands-on animal encounters to fascinating keeper talks, there's no shortage of exciting things to do and learn.

Discover Secret Valley Wildlife Park in County Wexford, Ireland! A family-friendly wildlife sanctuary with over 40 animal species, daily keeper talks, and hands-on experiences. — Plan Your Visit to Secret Valley Wildlife Park, Ireland’s Only Zoo in the Southeast (secretvalley.ie)

Founded in 2007 by Ann O’Connor, what began as a humble farm has blossomed into the only fully licensed zoo and wildlife park in the South East. Ann and her dedicated team have poured their hearts into creating a place that’s more than just a park—it's a sanctuary of care, education, and connection. Their passion for animals is palpable, and it’s reflected in every corner of this incredible space.

Secret Valley Wildlife Park is committed to giving animals a second chance. Many of its residents come from tough backgrounds, including ex-laboratory animals and former pets, who have now found a safe haven here. These animals, once burdened by hardship, now live happily in what the park calls their "retirement home." Each one becomes part of the extended family cared for by the park's team. Through their inspiring stories, the park shines a light on important issues like the challenges of the pet trade and reminds us of the difference we can make by choosing compassion.

A visit to Secret Valley isn’t just about seeing animals—it’s about truly connecting with them. With over 40 species from around the world, there’s something for everyone. You can marvel at exotic mammals like capybaras, Corsac foxes, and ring-tailed lemurs, or observe the playful antics of meerkats, prairie dogs, and Asian small-clawed otters. Blue-and-yellow macaws add a splash of color, while African crested porcupines and pygmy goats bring their own unique charm to the mix.

The park is also home to a variety of domestic animals, from Shetland ponies and alpacas to rabbits, guinea pigs, and hedgehogs. Reptile enthusiasts will be delighted by the royal ball pythons, Sulcata tortoises, and legless lizards, while those curious about the creepy-crawly world can meet Chilean rose tarantulas, giant African millipedes, and even hissing cockroaches.

The experience doesn’t end there! Secret Valley offers daily animal handling sessions, where you can get up close and personal with some of the residents. Keeper talks provide fascinating insights into the lives of these animals—whether it's learning how lemurs survive in the wild or what meerkats love to eat. For a truly immersive experience, the "Keeper for a Day" program lets you step into the shoes of an animal caregiver and see what it takes to care for these incredible creatures.

It’s not just the animals that make Secret Valley special—there’s plenty of fun for the whole family. From obstacle courses and adventure hunts to arts and crafts, the park has activities to keep everyone entertained. Rain or shine, visitors can explore indoor and outdoor play areas, enjoy a scenic picnic, or grab a tasty treat from the Hungry Tortoise Café.

But Secret Valley Wildlife Park isn’t just about fun; it’s about making a difference. Every visit supports their vital work in caring for animals and educating the public about wildlife conservation. The park embodies a mission to inspire respect for animals and the environment, showing us how even small efforts can lead to meaningful change.

So why not plan a trip to Secret Valley Wildlife Park? Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature, connect with animals from around the globe, and make memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you’re watching a lively group of ring-tailed lemurs or feeding a friendly llama, you’re sure to leave with a heart full of joy and a newfound appreciation for the incredible diversity of life on our planet.