Surrey offers a rare blend of urban accessibility and thriving natural ecosystems, where forests, wetlands, farmland, and coastline support an incredible diversity of wildlife. From whale-watching and feeding tortoises to coastal birdwatching and horse-riding. The city invites visitors to experience nature in meaningful, up-close ways while supporting conservation, education, and responsible wildlife viewing across every season.
EXPLORE A FREE ANIMAL & NATURE EXHIBIT
Explore the free interpretive space at the Surrey Nature Centre, one of Surrey’s best locations for learning about local wildlife. Rotating exhibits highlight the forest’s biodiversity, including birds, pollinators, insects, amphibians, and other native species found throughout Green Timbers Urban Forest. These hands-on interactive displays help visitors identify what to look and listen for while on Surrey’s trails.
When: Year-round
Cost: Free
MEET RESCUED EXOTIC ANIMALS
Unlike a traditional zoo, Urban Safari Rescue Society in South Surrey offers an intimate, ethical experience visiting with rescued exotic animals, as BC's only registered charity dedicated entirely to rescuing and providing sanctuary for exotic animals. The facility provides a permanent home for over 350 animals across more than 160 species: arachnids, reptiles, amphibians, birds, and mammals, all surrendered, abandoned, or seized from the exotic pet trade.
Guided by staff and volunteers, each visit shares the story behind the animals and the realities of exotic pet ownership, along with fascinating insights into their species and behaviours. Depending on the day, you may get to gently feed tortoises, handle a snake, or get up close with a rare reptile. The experience is focused on education, awareness, and a deeper understanding of wildlife conservation.
When: Year-round
Cost: Paid
URBAN FISHING AT GREEN TIMBERS LAKE
(Free Rod Rentals)
A short forest walk through the Green Timbers Urban Forest leads you to Green Timbers Lake, a quiet pocket of water surrounded by tall second-growth trees, where the sounds of the buzzing city immediately disappear, perfect for a peaceful fishing morning.
This stocked freshwater lake is home to Rainbow Trout. Free fishing rods and tackle rentals are available year-round at the Surrey Nature Centre with a valid BC freshwater fishing license.
Travel Tip: On Father’s Day, Canadian residents can fish without a license at Green Timbers Lake, supported by volunteer-led lessons for beginners. Learn more.
When: Year-round
Cost: Free entry & rentals
FREE NATURE & WILDLIFE ACTIVITY BACKPACK KITS
Make your walk through Surrey’s largest forest, Green Timbers Urban Forest more interactive by borrowing a free Adventure Backpack from the Surrey Nature Centre’s front desk for free. Each backpack kit includes tools and activities to help you observe wildlife, explore habitats, and learn about the forest as you move through Green Timbers’ trail network, perfect for a low-effort activity with kids.
When: Year-round
Cost: Free
RIDE & CONNECT WITH HORSES
A calm, hands-on way to connect with horses in a peaceful rural setting, A&T Equestrian offers beginner-friendly experiences designed to help you slow down, learn the basics, and spend time with well-cared-for animals. Located in Cloverdale, Surrey’s western-inspired community, this 10-acre equestrian centre has been welcoming first-time riders since 1999 and features a large heated indoor arena, allowing year-round riding experiences even during BC’s rainy seasons.
This is a no-experience-needed introduction to horses for kids and adults, with experience built around comfort and connection. Adult sessions include meeting your horse, grooming, and basic handling before a guided riding lesson. Children’s programs focus on gentle introduction, confidence building, and safe first-time riding. They also offer meditative and equine-assisted wellness sessions for a more transformative healing experience.
The experience is slow-paced and structured, with barn visits offering quiet time to connect with the horses in a clean, welcoming farm environment.
When: Year-round
Cost: Paid
Surrey's animal and wildlife experiences offer something truly special—the chance to connect with creatures great and small in meaningful, educational, and unforgettable ways. From the gentle buzz of bees to the powerful sight of a whale breaching, these encounters remind us of the incredible biodiversity that exists right in our backyard.
Many of these experiences are available year-round, while others are seasonal, so be sure to check availability and book in advance where required. Whether you're a local looking for a new adventure or a visitor exploring Surrey for the first time, these wildlife experiences will leave you with stories to share and a deeper appreciation for the natural world.
Ready to start planning your wild Surrey trip? Get personalized information on Surrey's attractions and experiences by contacting Discover Surrey today!