Can I bring a camera? What about a flash?  Print Please do bring a camera. Many of our animals love being photographed and tolerate flashes without problem. However, some of the larger animals, especially, are happy to be photographed but do not really tolerate a camera flash. Also, these larger animals are also very sensitive to camera tripods and other items that might look like a "gun". Depending upon their mood that day, we may ask you to leave such equipment at the barn or in your car.

How can I visit the Sanctuary?  Print The Three Ring Ranch is a sanctuary- not a zoo. There are no regular, open hours for the public. We do lots of community outreach and educational programs at schools, libraries and public events. However, private educational tours can be arranged by calling or emailing the Sanctuary. Our telephone number is 808-331-8778. A link to our email is found on the "Contact Us" page.

What is the appropriate age for children to visit the Sanctuary?  Print We can only allow children over the age of 6 on our tours since younger children have a natural exuberance which is not understood or safe for animals (or for them). Please understand, we are not a petting zoo, but a sanctuary and an educational facility. This is the animals' home, first and foremost, and we are the guests here. We try our best to make it easy, fun and safe for the creatures and to share them with as many people as possible.

What should I wear?  Print SHOES: comfortable walking shoes. Hiking boots are not needed and rubba' slippa's (flip-flops) are probably not quite enough. High-heeled stilettos won't work. We first visit the animals in the barn and then walk back to view the aviaries and then the zebras, oryx, wetlands and flamingos. Walking is mostly on flat ground with some uneven terrain and loose rocks in the pastures. Distances are only a few hundred yards and there is nothing steep or strenuous. Most of the time the ground is firm, but it can get soft and muddy after heavy rains. CLOTHING: anything you're comfortable in. It tends to be hot and sunny in the morning and overcast in the afternoon. Being in a tropical climate means there's almost always a chance of rain, especially in the afternoons. You can always bring rain gear to leave in the car if you think (or we specifically tell you) you might need it. Umbrellas are a "no-no" as they upset most of the residents here.

Where are you located?  Print The Sanctuary is ON THE BIG ISLAND (Hawaii) just above Kona, approx. 2 miles from the intersection of Queen K Highway (11) and Henry St. (location of Walmart and Borders). Because we are not open to the public, you must call us to make an appointment for a private tour (808-331-8778). We will give you directions to our exact location when you arrange your visit. For reference, we are ~10 miles (15-30 minutes) south of the Kona Airport and ~35 miles (45-60 minutes) from the Hilton Waikoloa and the other Gold Coast hotels. Drive time from Waimea is 1 hour and from Hilo is usually just over 2 hours. PLEASE NOTE: WEATHER and TIME of DAY and DAY of WEEK CAN SIGNIFICANTLY INCREASE THESE TIMES