To celebrate the opening of the new giraffe enclosure, Cologne Zoo and TimeRide are now offering an immersive journey of discovery through the ecosystem of the African savanna

An experience for the whole family, recommended for ages 6 and up

Cologne, July 30, 2026. The new giraffe enclosure – twice as large as the previous one – home to “Maoli” and “Penda,” is the latest attraction at Cologne Zoo. To complement this, the zoo is expanding its offerings with an additional highlight. Starting now, the zoo and the time-travel specialists at TimeRide are offering an immersive journey of discovery through the ecosystem of the African savanna – an experience for the whole family, recommended for ages 6 and up.

The new mixed-reality experience “SAVANNA VR” transports zoo visitors right into the heart of the African savanna habitat. At two additional stations in the Old Rhino House, directly across from the new giraffe enclosure, families can experience one of the world’s most biodiverse ecosystems up close – and learn about the challenges its animal inhabitants face and the role humans play in the savanna. Following “Dino VR,” “SAVANNA VR” is already the second experience that TimeRide has launched at the Cologne Zoo.

The journey begins at a virtual globe: Using augmented reality, time travelers discover how the unique savanna habitat came to be, what types of savannas exist, and why such extraordinary biodiversity thrives there. Then the scene shifts to virtual reality – and guests find themselves in the middle of the savanna: From the animals’ perspective, they soar to lofty heights and plunge into wet depths, while a narrator provides fascinating background information on what they’re seeing. 

At the second station, guests get hands-on: On virtual playing fields, they observe how the animals’ lives change between the dry and rainy seasons – a playful discovery for young and old alike. The approximately 25-minute experience is available in German and English.

“First, admire our two Kordofan giraffes, ‘Penda’ and ‘Maoli,’ in person. Then, right across from them, immerse yourself in their natural habitat and learn fascinating facts about them: This is modern experiential education that leaves a lasting impression on people. We’re delighted to be able to present this additional offering just in time for the opening of the giraffe house,” said Prof. Theo B. Pagel and Christopher Landsberg, Executive Directors of Cologne Zoo.

“Cologne Zoo inspires people to appreciate the animal world – we open up perspectives that would otherwise remain hidden. With SAVANNA VR, families see the savanna through the eyes of its inhabitants and feel just how precious this ecosystem is. This turns learning into a shared adventure,” said Jonas Rothe, founder and CEO of TimeRide GmbH.

Videos and photos: TimeRide

Press contact for Cologne Zoo:

Julia Sander

0221/7785-236
sander@koelnerzoo.de

Press contact for TimeRide

Dr. Jasper Broeker · COO

TimeRide GmbH · Alter Markt 36 – 42 · 50667 Cologne

presse@timeride.de

Cologne Zoo: Passionate about animals. Book online starting at 22.50 euros. www.koelnerzoo.de