Penguin Encounter Near
Lakeland, FL
Lakeland isn't exactly known for penguins -- which is exactly why this stands out. Chase Sanctuary's Penguin Encounter puts you up close with a small flock of Critically Endangered African penguins: feeding them, learning their individual personalities, and hearing about the conservation challenges they face in the wild.
Genuinely Wild
Lakeland isn't exactly known for penguins -- which is exactly why this stands out. Webster, FL is approximately 55 miles north of Lakeland -- under an hour via US-98 North.
Group sizes are kept extremely small, so book ahead.
Book Your Experience →"Chase Sanctuary's Penguin Encounter puts you up close with a small flock of Critically Endangered African penguins: feeding them, learning their individual personalities, and hearing about the conservation challenges they face in the wild."— Location Details
Address: 6127 SE 122nd Blvd, Webster, FL 33597
Signature Experiences
Discover the encounters that make Chase Sanctuary unforgettable.
$95/person | Tue, Fri & Sun at 10AM
Meet, feed, and learn about Chase Sanctuary's flock of Critically Endangered African penguins in a small-group, up-close setting. Ages 8+, about 30 minutes.
Book Penguin Encounter$195/person | 9AM-1PM, by appointment
Step into the role of an animal keeper for a half day -- assist with feeding, enrichment, and daily care alongside experienced staff. The most hands-on experience Chase Sanctuary offers.
Book Keeper for a DayAdd-On Encounters
Sloth / Anteater Add-On
Up-close time with gentle sloths or anteaters -- always on the animal's own terms.
Fennec Fox Add-On
Meet the sanctuary's big-eared, endlessly charming fennec fox. Tiny, curious, and unforgettable.
About Chase Sanctuary
Chase Sanctuary is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit wildlife sanctuary in Webster, FL dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and conservation of endangered primates and exotic animals.
The sanctuary operates on WAZA welfare standards. Animal interactions are never forced.
Every dollar from your booking goes directly to animal care and conservation. No animals from Chase Sanctuary have ever been sold as pets.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How far is Chase Sanctuary from Lakeland for the Penguin Encounter?
A: Webster, FL is approximately 55 miles north of Lakeland -- under an hour via US-98 North. It's a straightforward day trip for Lakeland visitors and residents.
Q2: What happens during the Penguin Encounter?
A: You'll meet Chase Sanctuary's African penguins up close, feed them, and learn about their individual personalities and their status as a Critically Endangered species. It runs about 30 minutes, ages 8 and up.
Q3: Are African penguins endangered?
A: Yes. African penguins are Critically Endangered in the wild, and every Penguin Encounter booking supports their care and conservation.
Q4: How big are the encounter groups?
A: Group sizes are kept extremely small to make the experience personal for both guests and the penguins -- book early to secure a spot.
Q5: Can I book the Penguin Encounter along with other experiences on a trip from Lakeland?
A: Yes. Many guests pair the Penguin Encounter with Penguin Swim or add on a Sloth/Anteater or Fennec Fox encounter.