Exclusive Great Ape-ril Tours at ABQ BioPark

Carlos Rodríguez · 2026-04-20

If you've ever watched a gorilla or orangutan and wondered what goes on behind the scenes, you're not alone. This April, the ABQ BioPark is giving visitors a rare chance to step into the world of our closest relatives. They're calling it "Great Ape-ril," and it's exactly the kind of experience that makes you feel like a kid again. We're talking about exclusive, behind-the-scenes primate tours. You get to see how keepers care for these amazing animals, learn about their personalities, and maybe even catch a glimpse of a baby ape taking its first wobbly steps. It's not a typical zoo visit. It's a backstage pass to one of the most fascinating exhibits in the park. ### What Makes These Tours Special? Most days, you see the apes from behind glass or a fence. But on this tour, you're walking where the keepers walk. You'll hear about the daily routines, the enrichment activities that keep the apes mentally sharp, and the conservation efforts that help protect wild populations. - **Personal stories:** Each ape has a name and a history. You'll learn who's the boss, who's the clown, and who's the shy one. - **Up-close moments:** While you won't touch the animals, you'll be closer than most visitors ever get. - **Expert guides:** A zookeeper leads the tour, so you can ask all those questions you've been holding back. The tours are limited to small groups, which means you get a more intimate experience. And they sell out fast, so planning ahead is key.  ### When and How to Book Great Ape-ril runs throughout the month of April. Tours happen on select dates, usually in the morning when the apes are most active. Tickets cost around $35 per person, which is a steal for a memory that'll stick with you for years. You can book online through the ABQ BioPark's official website. Just look for the special events section. And if you're bringing kids, know that the tour is best for ages 8 and up. Younger ones might get restless, and the experience is better when everyone can focus. > "It's not just a tour. It's a chance to see the world through their eyes." — A past visitor ### Why You Shouldn't Miss This Look, we all love a good deal. But some experiences are worth paying full price for. This is one of them. The chance to see great apes up close, to understand their behaviors, and to support a facility that genuinely cares for them? That's rare. Plus, April in Albuquerque is beautiful. The weather is mild, the crowds are smaller than summer, and the BioPark is in full bloom. You can make a whole day of it. Visit the aquarium, the botanic garden, and then this tour. It's the kind of day that reminds you why you love exploring. ### Final Thoughts If you're looking for something different this spring, give Great Ape-ril a shot. It's educational, moving, and honestly, a lot of fun. Whether you're a local or just visiting, this behind-the-scenes tour offers a perspective you won't get anywhere else. Just remember: book early. These tours fill up quicker than a chimp can crack a nut.