Frequently Asked Questions

What is the event schedule?

• 6:30 a.m. - Check-in opens on Zoo Place (located to the left of the main entrance of the Zoo). After checking in, proceed to the Zoofari Party Area to pick up your t-shirt, enjoy some coffee and fun activations before you embark on the course!
• 7 - 8 a.m. - The course is open for a rolling start! Enjoy exciting wildlife and surprise giveaways along the way.
• 8 a.m. - All walkers must start the course to ensure completion by 8:45 a.m.
• 9 a.m. - Enjoy finish line festivities with giveaways, glitter tattoo station, an animal encounter, a bug scavenger hunt and music!
• 10 a.m. - Wild Walkabout concludes.

How long is the Wild Walkabout route?
There are two courses to accommodate everyone. A friendlier short course measures under one mile. The longer course is approximately 1.5 miles through San Diego Zoo. Follow signs for each route.

Which route is best for wheelchairs and strollers?
Both courses are stroller and wheelchair accessible. Zoo rentals will not be available until 9 a.m.

Where can I find more information about accessibility at the Zoo?
Visit the San Diego Zoo’s website for their accessibility guide, map and more information.

Where does the Wild Walkabout finish?
Walk ends in Explorer Basecamp. Registrants will not be returning to Zoofari Start Area.

What should I bring/wear?
Wear comfortable walking shoes. Bring sunscreen, a hat and refillable water bottle.

Am I able to re-enter the zoo?
Registrants are able to re-enter the zoo using the zoo ticket received at check-in.

Where can I pick up my t-shirt?
Pick up your t-shirt inside San Diego Zoo Zoofari from 6:30 - 8:30 a.m.

I would prefer to run on the course. Is that allowed?
Running is not allowed on this course. This is a family fun walk and will not be officially timed.

Will there be water throughout the course or should I bring my own?
There will be hydration stations in Zoofari area and on the course, but you are free to bring your own hydration as well. Coffee will also be available in Zoofari area.

Will there be food available?
Yes, light snacks will be provided such as granola bars and bananas. Food and beverage will be available for purchase at 9 a.m. when the zoo is opened to the public.

Are there activities planned before and after the Wild Walkabout?
A variety of interactive experiences will take place both before and after the Walkabout such as giveaways, selfie station, glitter tattoos, zoo character interaction, animal encounter, bug scavenger hunt, and live music. Participants can also collect an assortment of animal-themed surprises along the walk course.

Can my team dress up or bring signs for the Wild Walkabout?
Yes! We encourage you to show your team spirit. Feel free to make signs, dress up and have fun. Remember, this is an event to celebrate kids and our awesome community of supporters. Be creative!

Can I bring my pet to the Walk?
Due to safety concerns and zoo policies, we are only able to permit trained service animals at this event. Neither emotional support animals nor companion, comfort or service animals in-training are allowed entry into the zoo.

Where can I park?
Free parking is available in the lot at the front of the zoo. Additional free parking is available throughout Balboa Park.

Is there a separate fee to park?
No, parking is free at the zoo.

Is handicap parking available?
Yes, handicap parking is available at the zoo. To access handicap parking, please look for the designated handicap signs towards the front of the parking lot.

What time should I arrive?
We encourage walkers to arrive by 6:30 a.m. to check-in and pick up your Wild Walkabout t-shirt. Walkers can start the walk course between 7 - 8 a.m.

At what age does a child count as a participant?
Children of any age count as a participant when registering for this special event with limited capacity and exclusive access outside the San Diego Zoo’s normal hours.

What is the cost to participate in this event?
Early bird registration is open through March 7, 2024 at the fundraising minimums listed below and will go up after that! Register now.

Family:

• Family of 4: $500
• Family of 5: $600
• Family of 6: $700

Team of two: $300

Individual: $150

Do you take walk-up registrants?
Walk-ups are welcomed. Please register online and show your confirmation to a check-in representative to receive your ticket.

If I surpass my fundraising minimum for a family of four and reach the minimum for six, do I get to bring two additional participants?
Each family category has a fundraising minimum to gain access to the event. If you surpass that, you do not gain access to bring additional participants. It just allows us to make a bigger impact for our Patient Experience Program.

Still fundraising?
Registrants’ credit cards on file were charged final fundraising amounts on April 7, 2024. Participants may collect donations through Sunday, May 31, 2024. Once your donation is received, you will see the amount reflected in your fundraising total. You can also donate at our Wild Walkabout information table on the day of event.

What if I have additional questions about the Wild Walkabout?
If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us at fundraise@rchsd.org.