Craving a family day out packed with wildlife magic and jaw-dropping cuteness? Meet Olive, the adorable baby Northern giraffe born at West Midlands Safari Park in 2026 – a huge boost for a species that’s declined by over 50% in the wild! We’re sharing her heartwarming story, conservation wins, and our ultimate guide to booking tickets through Day Out With The Kids for your perfect safari adventure!
Meet Olive: West Midlands Safari Park’s Newest Star
We are absolutely buzzing with excitement to share some massive news! West Midlands Safari Park has kicked off 2026 in the best way possible with the arrival of a beautiful baby giraffe named Olive. Born to experienced mum Arusha, this little one is already stealing hearts and making headlines. Lisa Watkins, the Head Keeper of Ungulates, says the team is “over the moon” with her safe arrival, and honestly, so are we (wmsp.co.uk)!
Olive isn’t just any arrival; she is the first baby animal born at the park this year. If you are looking for the ultimate reason to bundle the kids into the car this winter, meeting this adorable new arrival is it. She is simply adorable!
Olive’s Heartwarming Birth Story
Wondering how a baby giraffe enters the world? It’s pretty amazing! Olive made her grand entrance on Tuesday, 20 January 2026. But here’s the thing—giraffes don’t waste any time! Within just 40 minutes of being born, this little fighter was already standing on her own four legs. Talk about a quick learner!
She was feeding from mum Arusha within an hour, showing just how strong she is. It’s a heartwarming tale of nature at its finest, and Arusha (who is now a mum of five) is doing a fantastic job.
| Birth | Tuesday 20 January 2026 |
| First Steps | 40 minutes later |
| First Feed | 1 hour later |
The Importance of Olive for Northern Giraffe Conservation
Why is Olive so special? Bear with us here! It’s not just because she’s cute (though she definitely is). Northern giraffes are actually listed as ‘vulnerable’ to extinction due to habitat loss, poaching, and climate change. That means every single new calf is a massive win for the species.
Olive’s birth is a crucial success for the European Endangered Species Programme. We think it’s incredible that families like yours can see conservation in action right here in the UK! By visiting, you’re supporting vital work to keep these majestic giants safe for future generations (West Midlands Safari Park).
How to Plan Your Family Visit to See Olive
So, you’re ready to meet Olive? Great choice! But before you pack the car snacks, let’s make sure you have the perfect plan. West Midlands Safari Park is a big place, and we want you to have the smoothest day possible. Whether it’s your first safari or your fiftieth, a little prep goes a long way. Here is how we recommend you tackle your day out to ensure big smiles all round!
Booking Tickets and Saving with Day Out With The Kids
First things first—booking online is a must! Not only does it guarantee your entry, but it’s often cheaper than paying at the gate. We always recommend checking our Day Out With The Kids membership for cheeky discounts too. Why pay full price when you don’t have to? Think again! Grab those tickets early so you can spend more on ice cream later.
Best Times to Visit and Beat the Crowds
Want to beat the queues? We hear you! Weekdays during term time are naturally quieter, but if you are visiting during the upcoming half-term, get there for opening time. The animals are often most active in the mornings (just like us after a coffee!). Plus, hitting the safari drive first thing often means you avoid the midday rush.
Drive-Through Safari and African Walking Trail Routes
You have two main ways to see the herd. The Drive-Through Safari is the classic 4-mile adventure where you can see the giraffes up close from your car. For a different view, try the African Walking Trail. And if you want to stay over? Four brand new Giraffe Safari Lodges are opening on 13 February 2026! That sounds like the perfect getaway to us!
Best Practices for Spotting Olive and the Giraffe Herd
Want the best chance to spot Olive? Keep your eyes peeled for the smallest member of the tower (that’s a group of giraffes!). She will likely be sticking close to her mum, Arusha. Drive slowly and be patient — animals run on their own schedule, not ours!
“Arusha is well rehearsed in motherhood… and as we all expected, she is doing a fantastic job so far.”
We recommend bringing binoculars for the kids; it keeps them engaged and helps spot those twitchy ears in the distance. It’s a game-changer for little explorers!
Common Mistakes to Avoid on Your Safari Day Out
Don’t let a silly mistake ruin your day! Here are a few things to avoid to ensure your trip is smooth sailing:
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- Rushing: Take your time on the drive; you miss so much if you speed!
- Feeding: Never feed the animals anything other than the specific park food (and only where allowed).
- Windows: Keep them up when told to!
- Timing: Don’t leave the safari for the very end of the day when animals might be heading inside.
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Top Family Attractions Beyond Olive at the Park
Think the park is just about Olive? Think again! Olive actually has a playmate—her half-sister Namara, who was born back in October 2025! Seeing the two youngsters together is absolutely magical.
Beyond the giraffes, you can spot the new white rhino calves or check out the incredible rides in the adventure theme park. From the Land of the Living Dinosaurs to the Ice Age exhibit, there is enough here to tire out even the most energetic kids (wmsp.co.uk).
Frequently Asked Questions
Where exactly can we spot Olive at West Midlands Safari Park?
Olive is in the Drive-Through Safari’s 4-mile African reserve and the African Walking Trail. Look for her near mum Arusha in the giraffe tower – she’s the tiniest one with wobbly legs! Binoculars help spot her from afar.
What’s the giraffe feeding experience like?
Feed the giraffes special pellets from raised platforms on the African Walking Trail for £3 per person. It’s safe, guided, and their long tongues grab food right from your hand – kids love it! Sessions run throughout the day.
How much are tickets to see Olive and the safari?
Adult tickets start at £29.50, kids (3-15) at £24.50, under 3s free when booked online. Save more with Day Out With The Kids membership – up to 20% off! Book ahead for half-term.
Is West Midlands Safari Park open every day to see Olive?
Yes, daily from 9:30am, last safari entry 4pm (5pm weekends/holidays). Check wmsp.co.uk for weather closures, but animals like Olive are out year-round. Arrive early for best views!
Can we stay overnight near the giraffes?
Absolutely! Giraffe Safari Lodges open 13 February 2026 with views of the herd from your balcony. Perfect for families, sleeps 4-6 from £250/night. Book now – it’s the ultimate sleepover adventure! Find out more on the West Midlands Safari Park listing page.