
Jessica the Hippo
Meet Jessica, the hippo rescued as a baby, now offering unique feeding and interaction experiences. A heartwarming story and unforgettable encounter.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Jessica's feeding time!

Jessica the Hippo
Best Time
Jessica's feeding time!

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Meet Jessica, the hippo rescued as a baby, now offering unique feeding and interaction experiences. A heartwarming story and unforgettable encounter.
"An unbelievable experience, a must-do on the bucket list!"

🎯 Book in Advance!
Secure your spot to avoid waiting and ensure a smooth visit. :ticket:
⏰ Be Punctual for Feeding
Jessica won't wait for her lunch! Arrive on time for the best experience. :stopwatch:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Feed and Interact with Jessica
Jessica's Riverside Home
Get up close to feed, pet, and even kiss this gentle giant. A truly unique and humbling experience with a remarkable animal.

Jessica's Remarkable Rescue Story
Visitor Center
Learn about Jessica's incredible journey from a flood-rescued baby to a beloved family member. Her story is heartwarming and inspiring.

Meet Her 'Family'
The Property
Beyond Jessica, you might meet other friendly animals on the property, adding to the charm of this unique sanctuary.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Jessica
Punctuality is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book in Advance!
Secure your spot to avoid waiting and ensure a smooth visit. :ticket:
⏰ Be Punctual for Feeding
Jessica won't wait for her lunch! Arrive on time for the best experience. :stopwatch:
💖 Bring Your Manners
Jessica can be a bit of a diva; politeness goes a long way! :heart:
👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Fun
An unforgettable experience for all ages. Kids and adults alike will be amazed. :family_child:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book in Advance!
Secure your spot to avoid waiting and ensure a smooth visit. :ticket:
⏰ Be Punctual for Feeding
Jessica won't wait for her lunch! Arrive on time for the best experience. :stopwatch:
💖 Bring Your Manners
Jessica can be a bit of a diva; politeness goes a long way! :heart:
👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Fun
An unforgettable experience for all ages. Kids and adults alike will be amazed. :family_child:
💋 Ladies Can Kiss Her!
A unique opportunity for female visitors to share a kiss with Jessica. :kiss:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently rave about the unbelievable and unforgettable experience of meeting Jessica the Hippo. The opportunity to feed, pet, and even kiss her, coupled with her heartwarming rescue story, makes for a truly unique encounter. The affordability and the caring nature of the staff are frequently praised, though some note the potential for a tourist trap feel with payment processes.
"A pleasant time spent. Booked in advance and paid afterward (it's a bit of a tourist trap when you pay). We should be able to pay online or upon arrival. We ended up waiting in line. But I recommend the place; it's very interesting for children and adults. Thank you for your welcome."
D’geo
"Unbelievable experience. A must do on the bucket list. Great owner, who was kind to change our booking time and greeted us well on arrival even though we were running a little bit late. Caring people look after beautiful gracious animals. Once in a life experience you should do, 100% recommended. Very affordable and unforgettable! Do it 💯%!"
Sergey Yashumov (Русский гид в Австралии)
"Incredible story ans sharing with Jessica the hippo and her family.
If you are a lady you may give her a kiss 💋
Such a curious and amazing experience.
Be punctual, she won't wait for you for her lunch !"
Cyrielle Thonnon
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Jessica the Hippo is located in Hoedspruit, Limpopo Province, South Africa. Many visitors travel by car, as it's a scenic drive through the region. If you're coming from further afield, you might fly into Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (MQP) and then rent a car or arrange transport. Some tour operators, like Keeya Travel Solutions, offer packages that include transport.
Public transport options directly to Jessica the Hippo's location can be limited. It's generally recommended to have your own vehicle or arrange private transport. Local tour operators can often assist with this.
Many visitors combine a trip to Jessica the Hippo with a safari in the nearby Kruger National Park or other private game reserves. This makes it a convenient stop on a larger South African adventure.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While specific prices can vary, visits are generally considered very affordable and offer great value for an unforgettable experience. It's best to confirm current pricing when booking.
Yes, booking in advance is highly recommended to ensure your visit and avoid potential waiting times. Some reviews mention paying afterward, but pre-booking is key for a smooth experience.
Opening hours are typically aligned with feeding times, especially for interactive experiences. It's crucial to be punctual for your booked slot, as Jessica has her schedule. Check with your booking provider for exact times.
While some visitors mentioned paying afterward, it's advisable to inquire about online payment options when booking to streamline your arrival.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can feed, pet, and even kiss Jessica! Learning about her incredible rescue story and meeting her 'family' are also highlights. It's an interactive and heartwarming experience.
The interaction is carefully managed by experienced handlers who ensure safety for both visitors and Jessica. Following their guidance is essential for a positive experience.
Absolutely! Jessica the Hippo is a fantastic experience for families. Children and adults alike find the interaction amazing and memorable.
Comfortable, casual clothing is recommended. Since you'll be outdoors, consider the weather. Closed-toe shoes are a good idea for safety and comfort.
Yes, visitors are encouraged to capture memories! Many social media posts showcase incredible photos and videos of interactions with Jessica.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the focus is on the animal interaction, it's wise to check if any light refreshments are available. Many visitors opt to have meals before or after their visit in Hoedspruit.
It's best to confirm this when booking. Typically, the emphasis is on feeding Jessica, so outside food might be restricted.
📸 📸 Photography
The most iconic shots are during the feeding and interaction sessions, capturing the close-up moments with Jessica. Her unique personality often makes for expressive photos.
Generally, photography is allowed and encouraged. However, always be mindful of the handlers' instructions and avoid using flash if it might disturb the animals.
A camera with good zoom capabilities can be useful for capturing Jessica's expressions from a safe distance. However, many memorable shots are taken up close during the interaction.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's recommended to book your visit in advance to manage expectations and ensure a smooth experience for everyone. Being punctual for feeding times is also key, as it's the most exciting part for kids. The handlers are adept at making the interactions safe and fun for children, creating lasting memories for the whole family.
🌍 Bucket List Travelers
Her extraordinary rescue story adds a layer of emotional depth to the visit, making it more than just an animal sighting. Travelers often describe it as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that leaves a profound impact. Booking ahead and being punctual are essential to maximize this special encounter.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Jessica's Incredible Rescue and Life
Her story has gained international recognition, drawing visitors from around the globe who are touched by her journey and eager to experience her firsthand. The sanctuary provides a safe haven for Jessica, allowing her to live a life enriched by human care and interaction, a testament to the remarkable relationships that can form between humans and wildlife.
Visitors often describe the experience as humbling and surreal, getting to feed, pet, and even kiss a hippo. The dedication of her caretakers, like Shirley, is evident in Jessica's well-being and her trusting nature towards humans. It's a powerful reminder of the impact of compassion and the beauty of nature's unexpected connections.
Planning Your Visit: What to Expect
During your visit, you'll have the opportunity to get up close with Jessica. This includes feeding her, petting her, and for female visitors, the unique chance to give her a kiss. The handlers are experienced and ensure that interactions are safe and respectful for both guests and Jessica. Many visitors are struck by her gentle nature and the trust she places in her human companions.
Beyond the direct interaction, you'll learn about Jessica's remarkable rescue story, which is a significant part of her appeal. The atmosphere is generally described as heartwarming and unforgettable, making it a must-do for many travelers. Remember to bring your camera to capture these unique moments, but always follow the guidance of the staff.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit