At the heart of the Columbus Zoo’s Heart of Africa expansion, Nassal helped transform a vision into a fully realized landscape inspired by the vast African savanna.

Through the fabrication and installation of detailed mud banks, faux kopje rockwork and hand-crafted stone walls, Nassal created an environment that feels both authentic and alive—designed to transport guests beyond the exhibit and into the plains of Africa. Every element was carefully crafted to support an immersive, naturalistic setting where animals and storytelling seamlessly come together.

This AZA award-winning exhibit invites guests into a shared savanna experience, where cheetahs, giraffes and lions can be observed in a dynamic, mixed-species environment. One of its most captivating features is the cheetah run, where visitors can witness the raw power and speed of these animals as they chase a lure across an open landscape—offering a rare and unforgettable perspective.

With Heart of Africa, Nassal didn’t just build an exhibit—it helped create a place where guests can connect more deeply with wildlife, experiencing the energy, movement and spirit of Africa in a way that feels real and immediate.