Planning a visit? Walk-ins are welcome when space is available. Experiences run on a live calendar and availability can change throughout the day. Please check current availability or call us before heading over.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know before your visit.
We are an animal encounter experience, not a restaurant. "Cafe" reflects the relaxed, social atmosphere we create for guests and animals alike. We do carry a selection of Pepsi bottled products available for purchase on site.
Yes. The Capybara Cafe in St. Augustine, Florida was the first capybara cafe in North America. Our Fort Lauderdale location will bring that same experience to South Florida.
No. Other businesses have adopted similar names, but only the official Capybara Cafe locations operated by Noah's Ark Sanctuary, Inc. are part of our network. When booking, confirm you are reserving with The Capybara Cafe by Noah's Ark Sanctuary.
The Capybara Cafe is operated by Noah's Ark Sanctuary, Inc., a Florida nonprofit animal sanctuary. Encounters are supervised by trained staff, sessions are limited in size and duration for animal welfare, and proceeds support the sanctuary's animal care and mission.
Yes. During your encounter you will have the opportunity to pet and feed the capybaras in a calm, guided setting. Animals approach on their own terms.
The Lounge is open to all ages including babies and young children. Some rooms have minimum age requirements listed during booking. Contact us if you have questions before reserving.
Most encounters run approximately 30 minutes. Private group bookings may vary. Check your specific reservation for timing details.
Yes. Bring your phone or camera. There is no time pressure and no photo restrictions. Many guests leave with a new favorite photo.
We work to make every visit accessible. Contact us directly before your visit so we can make sure everything is ready for you.
Closed-toe shoes are required for all animal encounter sessions. Comfortable, casual clothing is recommended. Avoid strong perfumes or cologne.
Cancellation and refund policies are managed through FareHarbor at the time of booking. Review the policy during checkout or contact us directly with any questions.
Yes. Gift cards are available through FareHarbor. Operated by Noah's Ark Sanctuary, Inc., a Florida nonprofit. Proceeds support the sanctuary's animal care and rescue mission. Gift cards are redeemable at any Capybara Cafe location.
Yes. Private group bookings are available for birthdays, corporate outings, school groups, and special events. Contact us directly to discuss availability and pricing.
744 NW 5th Ave, Unit 1111, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311. Street parking is available. Your booking confirmation will include full arrival and parking instructions.
The Capybara Cafe is owned and operated by Noah's Ark Sanctuary. Every location is a direct extension of the sanctuary's animal rescue, care, and conservation education mission.
We are located at 744 NW 5th Ave, Unit 1111, easily accessible from Wilton Manors, Oakland Park, Lauderdale Lakes, and the broader Broward County area.
Yes, you can call us at (754) 310-2279 for general questions. However, booking changes, cancellations, or rescheduling cannot be completed by text message or voicemail. For any change to an existing reservation, please email bookings@capycafeftl.com or use the link in your FareHarbor confirmation.
Animal Welfare and Ethics
Where our animals come from, how sessions protect them, whether capybaras make good pets, and where the money goes. These questions deserve their own page, so we gave them one.
Do I need a reservation? Walk-ins are welcome when space is available, but our experiences use a live calendar and can sell out or change throughout the day. We strongly recommend checking current availability online or calling before you travel to the cafe.
Will I see a specific animal? Animal participation can vary based on individual care, rest, health and welfare needs. Unless the experience specifically names an animal, a particular species cannot be guaranteed.
Does every experience include the Capybara Lounge? No. The Capybara Lounge is a separately booked experience. Other experiences do not include Capybara Lounge admission unless the booking description specifically says otherwise.
Does Sunset Safari include capybaras? No. Sunset Safari is a separate experience and does not include capybaras or admission to the Capybara Lounge.
How many feeding greens can I purchase? Feeding greens are limited to 3 portions per guest. Greens may be kale or romaine depending on the animals’ current feeding plan.