Access and Inclusion
Sensory-Friendly Visit Guide
This guide describes exactly what your visit will look, sound, and feel like, so guests with sensory sensitivities, autistic guests, and anyone who likes to know what to expect can plan with confidence. Print it, read it together before your visit, and email bookings@capycafeftl.com with anything that would make your visit easier. We mean it.
What your visit looks like, step by step
1. Arriving
You park on the street or get dropped off right in front. The entrance is at street level with no stairs. You check in at the front desk, and the team confirms your session.
2. Waiting
You wait in the cafe lounge with seating. There may be quiet background music and other guests talking. You can step outside at any time if you need a break before your session.
3. The session
A guide brings your small group into the animal space and stays with you the whole time. The guide explains everything before it happens. You choose how close to get; nobody is ever required to touch an animal.
4. Leaving
When the session ends, the guide walks you out through the lounge. You can stay a few minutes, look through the habitat viewing windows, or head straight out.
What your senses can expect
Sound
Generally calm and quiet. The animals themselves are quiet; capybaras occasionally make soft purring or squeaking sounds. Other guests may chat and sometimes laugh. No sudden loud noises are part of any session.
Light
Soft indoor lighting throughout. No flashing lights, no strobes, and no sudden changes. The habitats use natural-tone lighting.
Touch
Touching the animals is always optional and always guided. Capybara fur is coarse, like a stiff brush, and most guests are surprised by it. Hand sanitizer is used before and after animal contact.
Smell
A mild animal smell is normal, similar to a clean barn or a pet store, strongest inside the habitat rooms.
Good to know
You can leave the room at any time
Stepping out is always okay and nobody will mind. Your group's guide can pause for you.
Headphones and comfort items welcome
Noise-reducing headphones, fidgets, and comfort items are completely welcome in every session.
Tell us ahead of time
If we know what helps, we prepare: a spot furthest from the door, extra explanation time, or the calmest session of the day. One email is all it takes.
Sessions are small and capped, so the room never fills with a crowd. If a quieter time of day would help, email us and we will suggest the calmest sessions of the week. You can read more about the building itself, parking, and step-free entry on our Accessibility page.
Fort Lauderdale Is Now Booking
The Fort Lauderdale booking calendar is open. Reserve your spot now, or book at our St. Augustine or St. Petersburg locations today.