Fota Wildlife Park's Panoramic Wheel Returns on 14 March
Fota Wildlife Park's 35m Panoramic Wheel returns on 14 March, offering stunning views across the Park, Cork Harbour and beyond.
Cork's favourite wildlife destination is about to get a whole lot taller. Fota Wildlife Park has announced the return of its 35-metre-high Panoramic Wheel, set to launch on Saturday, 14 March, giving visitors a bird's-eye view of one of Ireland's most loved conservation parks.
The temporary attraction, operated by PWC2 Ltd., a company with over 25 years of combined industry experience, will be available for a limited time only. Tickets start from €5 per person and are purchased on-site at a dedicated ticket booth, with both cash and card payments accepted. There is no pre-booking facility.
From the top of the wheel, riders will enjoy sweeping views across Fota's 100 acres of wildlife habitats, taking in the savannah, the cheetah run, and the bison and lechwe paddock. With a bit of luck, you might spot free-roaming wallabies and Eastern grey kangaroos below, as well as Rothschild's giraffes, Grant's zebras, and black-and-white colobus monkeys.
The views extend well beyond the Park itself. Visitors can take in Cork Harbour and the Great Island Channel, a designated Special Area of Conservation, as well as the historic Fota House and Belvelly Castle. From above, the recently installed solar panels on the administration buildings and the refurbished giraffe house are also clearly visible, reflecting the Park's commitment to sustainability.
The Panoramic Wheel will open daily at 10.30am, one hour after the Park gates open, and will close 30 minutes before closing time. Each trip includes a minimum of three full rotations. Individual riders are welcome, and the operator will avoid mixing separate groups where possible.
There are no height restrictions, though children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Wheelchair users are welcome but must be able to transfer to and from the wheel independently or with assistance. Buggies cannot be taken on board, with dedicated buggy parking available nearby.
Access to the Panoramic Wheel requires a valid Fota Wildlife Park entry ticket or annual pass. Discounted rates on the wheel ride are available for families and annual pass holders.
Fota Wildlife Park is open daily from 9.30am. The Panoramic Wheel is a limited-time, optional paid attraction. Full details are available at fotawildlife.ie.
