Meet Jessica the Hippo

Meet Jessica, the world’s most famous hippopotamus, who lives just outside Hoedspruit. Rescued as a calf in 2000 after a huge storm in Kruger National Park, she was raised by locals Tonie and Shirley Joubert – and went on to steal the hearts of people across the globe. Over the years, Jessica has been joined by Seun (another hippo, rescued by the same couple) and her own calm-natured calf Luku, born in 2024. You can book a ‘Meet & Feed’ session to interact with all three: enjoy a short introduction video, then feed them snacks and tea, give them a backrub with your feet, and spend time with them by the water’s edge. Visits run daily (minimum age is 6 years old), and booking is essential.