In early January, officials with the Houston Zoo announced the start of a multiyear series of habitat upgrades and concessions improvements for the establishment’s Africa sanctuary.
What’s happening?
The improvements are designed to enhance animal well-being and elevate the guest experience, according to a Jan. 8 news release. The key projects include:
Significant renovation of the zoo’s white rhinoceros habitatNew features for the Masai giraffe herdAdditional enhancements to the Shani marketConstruction on some projects began Jan. 7 and will last through early 2027, with phased openings expected throughout the process.
White Rhinoceros Habitat
The White Rhinoceros Habitat will undergo improvements from Jan. 12 through early 2027. (Rendering courtesy Houston Zoo)The White Rhinoceros Habitat will undergo a comprehensive renovation to support expanded species care and long-term habitat health, per the release. Modifications to the habitat, which will last through early 2027, include adding more shade for animals and guests, including a covered viewing shelter, which will allow visitors a closer view of the animals.
New animal features will also include heaters, fans, feeders and a new water feature. An additional rhino and more zebras will be added to the expanded space as well.
McGovern Giraffe Habitat
The giraffe habitat will undergo renovations from Jan. 7 through spring 2026. (Rendering courtesy Houston Zoo)For the McGovern Giraffe Habitat, visitors can expect to start seeing enhancements to guest interactions, a new shade canopy, improved comforts for the zoo’s five giraffes and new animal well-being features, such as more drinkers, fans and feeders.
Shani Market
The Shani Market will see renovations from January through summer 2026. (Rendering courtesy Houston Zoo)From January through summer, the Shani market, located between the giraffe and rhino habitats, is being transformed into a grab-and-go concept store, according to the release. The refreshed space will offer self-checkout stations for both retail and food and beverage, including Icee’s. The release states that guests will also be able to purchase products from the zoo’s conservation partners. Each item will support the wildlife and community conservation efforts in Kenya.