African Forest, Jacksonville

About African Forest

African Forest is a primate exhibit at Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens where visitors walk through habitats housing bonobo, gorillas, lemurs, mandrills, and colobus monkeys. The centerpiece is a 40-foot Kapok Tree that serves as the heart of the exhibit, with its interior accessible to staff for animal care and observation. The habitat design incorporates climbing structures, vines, and varied environments built on data collected by the zoo's Animal Wellness Department to encourage natural movement and animal well-being. Visitors also explore other exhibits including River Valley Aviary, Giraffe Overlook, Land of the Tiger, and Sloth Crossing, where sloths Ruth and Chata inhabit a climate-controlled indoor space alongside an outdoor section filled with greenery and climbing structures. The zoo spans more than 115 acres across Jacksonville, Florida, and houses more than 2,000 animals and 1,000 plants, offering educational resources and family-friendly activities throughout the grounds.