Watatunga Wildlife Reserve

Nestled in the peaceful countryside near King’s Lynn, Watatunga Wildlife Reserve offers one of the UK’s most unique wildlife experiences. Spread across 170 acres of woodland, grassland, wetland and lakes, this extraordinary reserve is dedicated to conservation, education and sustainable tourism, bringing visitors closer to nature in an immersive and memorable way.

What makes Watatunga stand out is its focus on free-roaming animals. Rather than traditional enclosures, many of the deer, antelope and bird species live in habitats that closely resemble their natural environments. This means you can watch them behaving as they would in the wild, grazing across open meadows, wandering through shady woodland or pausing at quiet lakeside spots.

Visits are by guided safari tour only, and all tours must be pre-booked. You explore the reserve in eco-friendly electric buggies, following an expert guide who shares stories, sightings and fascinating animal insights along the way. Each tour feels different because the animals move freely and the landscape changes with the seasons, making every visit a fresh experience.

For those wanting an even deeper connection to the surroundings, Watatunga offers safari stays in luxury self-catering lodges set within the reserve. Guests have exclusive use of electric buggies throughout their stay, giving them the freedom to explore at quieter times of day when the reserve feels especially peaceful and wildlife is often more active.

Education is an important part of Watatunga’s mission. The reserve runs engaging programmes for schools and young people, helping to spark an interest in wildlife, conservation and the natural world through hands-on activities and curriculum-linked learning.

Further Information: Watatunga Wildlife Reserve

Is there food and drink available?

There is a small takeaway coffee shop at their reception area, offering coffee and other drinks

What are the main things to do?

Watatunga’s guided buggy tours and luxury safari-style stays let you get up close to free-roaming wildlife in a truly immersive and unforgettable way.

What are the ticket prices?

A safari tour costs from £85 for a 4 seater buggy, from £125 for a 6 seater and from £70 for a wheechair accessible trailer. Stays vary throughout the year and a guided wildlife safari tour costs £18 pp. All tours/buggy hire (unless you stay overnight) are for 1hr30.

Is there parking?

There is free parking

When are they open?

They are open for most of the year for pre-booked activities and stays

Dog Friendly?

They offer on-site kennel hire (for a fee, requires proof of vaccination) and they welcome registered assistance dogs for free, making it a great option for dog owners wanting to visit their reserve