Beyond the Glass: The Ultimate Rhino Encounters
Forge a profound connection with a legend.
Choose between an intimate daytime encounter or an exclusive evening ritual with Blake, our resident Southern White Rhino.
The Pinnacle Experience
Where Luxury Meets the Wild.
Indulge in an unforgettable afternoon at Rhinory, where the thrill of encountering a majestic rhinoceros blends seamlessly with the refined pleasure of savoring world-class wines.
- Connect with Blake: Forge a personal connection with Blake in an intimate encounter guided by our expert team of rhino keepers. With over 50 years of combined experience, our team will share their passion for these magnificent creatures, their unique behaviors, and the challenges they face in the wild.
- Indulge in Award-Winning Wines: Embark on a sensory journey through our portfolio, curated from Texas and South Africa. Your expert wine guide will unveil the stories behind our Signature and Reserve “Keras Collection” wines.
- Savor the Ambiance: Relax amidst the breathtaking Texas Hill Country landscape, where our tasting room charm complements the beauty of Blake’s habitat.
Experience Details:
- Price: $180 per person (Includes gratuity).
- Availability: Friday – Sunday | 10:30 am & 3:00 pm.
- Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours.
- Capacity: Up to 4 guests per experience.
- Requirement: Age Restriction: 21+
Goodnight Blake
Join the Inner Circle.
Have you ever wondered what happens in Blake's crash pad once the gates close? Now, you can be part of the story. Following a private tasting of our exclusive wines, you are invited to join the inner circle of our conservation team for Blake’s nightly bedtime routine.
- Become a Keeper: Embark on a sensory journey through our portfolio, curated from Texas and South Africa. Your expert wine guide will unveil the stories behind our Signature and Reserve “Keras Collection” wines.
- The Nightcap: We’ll toast to a successful day of conservation with a special nightcap and a mission-driven chocolate pairing featuring artisan selections from the Swiss Chocolate Shoppe.
Experience Details:
- Price: $180 per person (Includes gratuity).
- Availability: Wednesday | 4:00 pm.
- Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours.
- Capacity: Up to 4 guests per experience.
- Requirement: Age Restriction: 21+
Rhino Encounter FAQs
Do we need reservations for rhino encounters?
Yes. At Rhinory, the well-being and safety of Blake, our resident Southern White Rhino, are our absolute priorities. Because our encounters are designed to be intimate and mission-driven, we require reservations for the following reasons:
- Animal Welfare & Routine: Blake thrives on a consistent, stress-free schedule. Reservations allow our expert keepers to manage his day effectively, ensuring he is never overwhelmed and that his participation is always voluntary and positive.
- Intimate Experience Quality: To ensure every guest receives a high-touch, educational experience without the distractions of a crowd, we strictly limit the capacity of our encounters.
- Expert Supervision: Every encounter requires the presence of our professional Rhino Keepers to provide technical insights and maintain safety protocols. Pre-booking ensures our specialized staff is available to guide your journey.
- Safety Standards: Rhinos are magnificent but powerful animals. Reservations allow us to conduct a brief orientation and maintain a controlled, secure environment for both our guests and Blake.
Can I book a rhino encounter when I arrive at the winery?
While we welcome walk-ins for our Wine Tastings, Rhino encounters often book up weeks in advance due to their limited nature. We highly recommend securing your spot via our online booking system as soon as you plan your visit to avoid disappointment.
Is there an age requirement for rhino encounters?
Yes. All guests participating in a Rhino & Wine Experiences must be 21 years of age or older. As these experiences are intimately paired with our premium wine tastings and involve behind-the-scenes access to a sensitive habitat, we require all participants to be of legal drinking age. Please ensure all members of your party have a valid government-issued ID available at check-in.
What if I need to cancel or reschedule?
Because these are limited-capacity experiences that require specific staffing, we ask for at least 24 notice for cancellations or rescheduling. This allows us to offer the opening to another guest on our waiting list.
What should I wear for the rhino encounter?
To ensure your comfort and safety, we recommend the following:
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Closed-Toe Shoes (Required): For safety reasons, all guests participating in an encounter must wear closed-toe shoes (sneakers, boots, or hiking shoes). Sandals, flip-flops, or open-back shoes are not permitted behind the scenes.
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Comfortable, Outdoor Clothing: You will be moving through a natural habitat. We suggest comfortable, durable clothing that you don’t mind getting a little dusty.
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Weather-Appropriate Layers: The Texas Hill Country weather can vary. Check the forecast and bring a light jacket or sun protection (hats and sunglasses) as needed.
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Avoid Loose Accessories: To prevent distractions for Blake and ensure safety, please avoid wearing loose, dangling jewelry or long, flowing scarves during the encounter.
Are there any allergy concerns I should be aware of?
Because our encounters take place in a natural, working habitat, guests may be exposed to various environmental allergens. Please consider the following:
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Hay & Feed: Blake’s diet consists primarily of high-quality hay, which is present throughout the encounter areas. Guests with significant hay or grass allergies should take appropriate precautions.
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Environmental Allergens: You will be outdoors in the Texas Hill Country, where dust, native pollen, and seasonal grasses are common.
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Food Allergies: If your experience includes a chocolate pairing, please be aware that our artisan chocolates may contain or come into contact with milk, nuts, or soy. Please notify your host of any severe food allergies upon arrival.
We recommend that guests with known severe allergies bring any necessary medications (such as an inhaler or EpiPen) and consult with their physician before participating.
Why Your Visit Matters
By booking a Rhino Encounter, you aren’t just creating a memory; you are providing the resources needed for world-class veterinary care, habitat protection, and the global fight against rhino poaching.
Looking for a classic tasting?
Join us in the tasting room for a curated flight of our Texas and South African wines. Discover your favorites while overlooking the savannah.
830-992-9526