The San Antonio Zoo has opened Congo Falls, a new 2-acre, multi-habitat gorilla exhibit that marks the return of the species to the city after 35 years.
The San Antonio Zoo officially opened its new 2-acre Congo Falls habitat on Dec. 13, 2025, reintroducing gorillas to the park for the first time in over three decades. Designed in partnership with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), the complex features three distinct environments: the lowland basin, the gorilla gorge, and an indoor rainforest. Key infrastructure includes the 30-foot-tall Will Smith Foundation Infinity Falls and the 70-foot-tall Silverback Peak, which the zoo claims is the world's largest gorilla tower.
The exhibit is home to two gorilla troops, including a bachelor group and a family troop, totaling seven western lowland gorillas. The site features extensive enrichment capabilities, such as more than 260 planted trees and specialized browse feeders that simulate natural foraging behaviors. The development also includes The Ralston, a new venue overlooking the exhibit and the downtown skyline.
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