Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. The Capybara Café in St. Augustine, Florida was the first capybara café in North America. Its success led to a second official location in St. Petersburg, Florida.

No. Other businesses have adopted similar names, but only our St. Augustine and St. Petersburg locations are official Capybara Café locations operated by Noah's Ark Sanctuary, Inc. When booking, confirm you are reserving with The Capybara Café by Noah's Ark Sanctuary.

The Capybara Café is operated by Noah's Ark Sanctuary, Inc., a Florida nonprofit animal sanctuary. Encounters are supervised by trained staff, sessions are limited in size and duration for animal welfare, and all proceeds support the sanctuary's animal care and mission.

The St. Petersburg location pairs beautifully with a full day in the area. Walk the St. Pete waterfront, visit the Salvador Dalí Museum or the Florida Holocaust Museum, explore the Central Arts District, or head to the Gulf beaches - all within a short drive of 4703 Park St N.

We are an animal encounter experience, not a restaurant. "Cafe" reflects the relaxed, social atmosphere we create for guests and animals alike. We do carry a selection of Pepsi bottled products available for purchase on site. Book a session, spend time with capybaras and other exotic animals, and leave with memories (and probably a few capybara hair souvenirs).

Yes. During your encounter you will have the opportunity to pet and feed the capybaras in a calm, guided setting. Animals approach on their own terms.

The Lounge is open to all ages including babies and young children. Some rooms have minimum age requirements listed during booking. Contact us if you have questions before reserving.

Most encounters run approximately 30 minutes. Plan to arrive 15 minutes before your session to check in. Private group bookings may vary. Check your specific reservation for timing details.

Yes. Bring your phone or camera. There is no time pressure and no photo restrictions. Many guests leave with a new favorite photo.

We work to make every visit accessible. Contact us directly before your visit so we can make sure everything is ready for you.

Closed-toe shoes are required for all animal encounter sessions. We also recommend pants that cover your legs - if you arrive in shorts, we’ll provide a blanket to use during your experience. Comfortable, casual clothing is recommended. Avoid strong perfumes or cologne.

Cancellation and refund policies are managed through FareHarbor at the time of booking. Review the policy during checkout or contact us directly with any questions.

Yes. Gift cards are available through FareHarbor. All proceeds go directly to Noah's Ark Sanctuary rescue and care operations. Gift cards are redeemable at any Capybara Cafe location.

Yes. Private group bookings are available for birthdays, corporate outings, school groups, and special events. Contact us directly to discuss availability and pricing.

Park in the lot behind the building - as you pull around back, you will see trees on your right, and the parking spaces run alongside them. The entrance to the café is at the front of the building. Plan to arrive 15 minutes before your session to check in at the front desk.

The Capybara Cafe is owned and operated by Noah's Ark Sanctuary. Every location is a direct extension of the sanctuary's animal rescue, care, and conservation education mission.

Capybara Cafe operates two locations: St. Augustine and St. Petersburg, Florida, under a registered Florida business name held by Noah's Ark Sanctuary. We're aware that other businesses have adopted similar names or descriptions elsewhere in Florida. If you're trying to reach a different business, please double-check your booking confirmation and location details before calling or leaving a review, so your message reaches the right team.

We are located at 4703 Park St N, easily accessible from Pinellas Park, Kenneth City, and Tyrone, and the broader Pinellas County area.

Our guides are experienced with nervous first-timers of all ages. The environment is calm and there is no pressure. Children who arrive unsure almost always leave wanting to come back.

Very close. Sessions are small-group and intimate with no barriers. You are in the room with the animals, and they approach on their own terms.