By Tilly Walder
There’s something quietly magical about wandering through Amazon World Zoo Park — where you might spot a capybara soaking up the sun, hear the rustle of wallabies in the undergrowth, or catch a glimpse of a baby slow loris nestled in the shadows.
Just outside Arreton, behind Thompson’s Garden Centre, the park is home to an extraordinary mix of species from across the globe — mainly from the Amazon rainforests — brought together in carefully designed habitats that let visitors experience them in a truly memorable way.
The tapirs often steal the show. With their distinctive snouts and calm temperament, they quickly become a favourite with visitors. Nearby, the capybaras – the world’s largest rodents – relax in the sun, often wandering over to greet keepers or visitors in hopes of a snack. Their gentle nature and love of food make them especially popular during feeding times.
You can enjoy a very personal meet-and-greet with these unusual creatures, and others, through the Animal Experience programme, with prices starting from just £50. An Animal Experience makes a thoughtful and unusual treat for any animal lover – whether they are young or just young at heart.
One of the zoo’s newest residents, a baby slow loris, is also delighting guests. Tucked away in a softly-lit indoor enclosure to mimic its natural nocturnal habits, the loris is only visible to those who take the time to look carefully. With wide eyes and slow, deliberate movements, it’s a rare and rewarding sight.
Outside, in the more open paddocks, the wallabies put on an active, curiosity-driven display. Thanks to well-designed enclosures and clear signage throughout, the park makes it easy to learn about the animals as you explore. Staff are on hand to answer questions, there are regular keeper talks, and many species can be observed at remarkably close range — including walk-through exhibits which may bring a ring-tailed lemur onto your shoulder.
You can also hand-feed some of the animals, such as the wallabies, with a £1 cup of food bringing these friendly creatures bouncing over to you excitedly.
If you’re lucky enough to run into Del Curtis, the attraction’s owner, on your visit, then be sure to say hello. He has a fascinating treasure-trove of stories, including how his private animal collection became a zoo.
You can see videos of my close encounters with these wonderful creatures (and Del!) and my meetings with the sloths, armadillos and meerkats from last week at iwobserver.co.uk/amazon-experience.
And of course, there is plenty more to see and do at Amazon World. With more than 200 species of animals, birds and reptiles — a number of which are endangered — the charity works with global breeding and conservation programmes. Many of the animals are also rescues from often heart-breaking conditions, including a pair of Hyacinth macaws, the world’s biggest parrots, who are now growing their feathers back after a life spent with no natural light or enrichment in a wire cage beneath a desk.
Whether you’re a regular visitor or it’s your first ever visit, Amazon World offers engaging, up-close animal encounters that manage to surprise and charm at every turn.
Amazon World has a Summer Special Island visitors’ rate of just £9 per person — amazing Amazonian value, considering full prices are £18.95 for adults and £16.95 for 2–14-year-olds and senior citizens.
They are always on the lookout for volunteers to help with caring for their wonderful animals. Just call Rowena on 867122 to find out more.
Isle of Wight Observer 
Mal Butler