If you have a pet tortoise or two, it’s about time that you invested in a proper tortoise house or enclosure. Tortoise enclosures offer a safe and fun environment for your four-legged friend as they mimic their natural habitat and surroundings. Aside from being fun, tortoise hutches also need to be durable and offer ample space, as well as absolute safety from predators like birds in case of outdoor models. To help you find the best tortoise enclosure for your pet, we tested and reviewed dozens of different products – outdoor and indoor tortoise habitat models included – detailing our favorites below. We also put together a comprehensive buying guide in which we cover all things tortoise houses and enclosures, so read on!
The first pick on our list of tortoise enclosures is Zoo Med’s super-comfy and secure wooden house. This model is a great choice for environmentally conscious pet parents as it’s 100% natural and biodegradable. The specialized wooden sliding door offers ultimate privacy and the meshed-roof section allows your tortoise to enjoy the sunshine. Because of this and its weather-resistant properties, it suits both indoor and outdoor use, which is a big plus. In terms of size, it offers your beloved pet 36 inches in length x 24 inches in breadth x 12 inches in height. It’s a great starter home for one tortoise, however, they should still be given space to walk around outside in the day while supervised and safe.
Wooden tortoise enclosure
Partly meshed roof for natural sunlight
36 inches length x 24 inches breadth x 12 inches height
The Pawhut tortoise house is the ideal enclosure for domestic tortoises. This particular hut has been designed with an in-built sleeping area that can protect your little friend from the elements and harsh temperatures whilst they sleep. This area can also be filled with hay for added insulation to regulate temperature, and to create a more comfortable resting space. The fine mesh roof creates a solarium effect, letting the sun enter the enclosure, giving your tortoise a chance to relax in the sunlight and catch some vitamin D. However, we have saved the best until last. The sides, and bottom of this enclosure can be easily removed, allowing your tortoise to have free roam of the world around it, whilst still being able to return to its home if it gets overwhelmed, or just fancies a nap.
Includes built-in private box and basking areas.
Removable side panels and bottom floor panel.
Lockable latches around the lid for added security.
Fine metal mesh top lets in sunlight.
Looking for an attractive indoor tortoise enclosure? Check out Hagen’s Exo Terra terrarium. This all-glass model boasts ultimate sophistication and is bound to delight all tortoise-parents as they get to watch their special pet play and relax all day. Whether you have a tortoise or another reptile or amphibian, this tank is a truly special piece and will make a real statement in any home. The doors open easily and separately when needed and there are special openings that can close for tubing or wires for lights. This is a great option for when you want your tortoise inside and can work well in conjunction with an outside secure pen.
Glass terrarium indoor tortoise enclosure
2 doors that can open separately
Special holes for cables and or tubing
24 inches by 18 inches by 12 inches
When it comes to tortoise hutches and enclosures, Zoo Med knows a thing or two. This delightful playpen is a brilliant purchase for pet-parents who want to give their tortoise some fun outside time. The mesh exterior enables your tortoise to soak up some sunshine and the open bottom allows them to feel the grass or soil beneath their little feet. This model also has a safe and secure enclosure section so your pet they can escape the elements or potential threats if needed. It’s important that your tortoise gets enough sunlight for their development and the growth of their shell so some safe outside time is a must when weather permits. This model, being open in a secure way and easy to assemble is perfect for this.
Outside play pen
Cedar wood and mesh
Open floor so tortoises can feel the grass beneath their feet
Great size for walking around – 40 inches by 20 inches by 17 inches
The ROCKEVER tortoise habitat is designed to be a secure and comfortable space for the shelled friend to relax. Not only goes the grate-style lid let in plenty of sunlight during the day. But there is also a lighting support bracket that can be used to wire in a heat lamp for use in the colder months. Unlike many other tortoise enclosures, the ROCKEVER enclose even comes in two colors, with a chic white and grey option to suits a modern home. Additionally, it comes in two sizes so that you can pick the best enclosure to provide your pet with all the space they will need. The main thing that you should note when considering an enclosure like this is that the wood is not treated for outdoor use, meaning it is better used as an indoor enclosure. Or else, it would be worth looking into having it treated before leaving it exposed to the elements.
Available in two sizes and two colors.
Quick and easy to assemble.
Grate-style lid can be folded back for more sunlight.
Light support frame included (no light).
Number 6 on our list of tortoise enclosures is this simple but highly functional house by Aivituvin. This solid wood tortoise enclosure can be used both indoors and outdoors and comes with a waterproof plastic tray for easy cleaning and to protect your floors. This enclosure boasts two separate rooms. The public viewing area allows your pet to bask in the sunshine and enables you to watch them, while the private sleeping quarters provide them some privacy. This area is weatherproof and thus protects your tortoise from the elements when needed. Overall, a durable, comfy house that’s perfect for both indoor and outdoor use.
100% solid wood tortoise enclosure
Activity area: 23.6 inches x 22.5 inches x11.2 inches
Sleeping area: 13 inches x 22.5 inches x 11.2 inches
Meshed roof for viewing and sunshine exposure
For indoor and outdoor use
Easy to clean up after your pet
Made from high-grade, sturdy and non-toxic plastic, this turtle habitat is a fantastic choice for tortoises that like to have some indoor fun. This terrapin tank comes with multiple levels that are connected by a ramp for easy movement. The ramp itself has a special non-slip floor to ensure that your pet is safe and secure at all times. There isn’t a top cover so if you have cats or other pets this might not work for you, however, if your tortoise is your only pet, this might be the perfect indoor enclosure. Super-fun, stylish and easy to clean, this is a great option for pet parents on a tight budget.
Sturdy plastic enclosure for tortoises
Easy to clean
15.7 inches in length
Basking platform
Last, but certainly not least on our list of best tortoise houses is Repti Zoo terrarium. This glass tank is perfect for easy viewing of your pet and its stylish design will be a focal point in any room. It works well in both damp and humid conditions and is thus suited to reptiles such as snakes too. Glass construction enables you to retain ideal temperature and allows for thermal gradients when needed. While it is important for your tortoise to enjoy the great outdoors from time to time, this tank is a great pick for inside fun. This stunning tank is easy to assemble, well ventilated, and has a specialized safety lock. Extra features, including reptile lamps and water bowls, can be bought separately so you can modify and adjust the tank according to your and your tortoise’s unique needs.
Glass terrarium for tortoises
Comes with a safety lock
Waterproof bottom
Easy installation
36 inches by 18 inches by 18 inch
To keep your tortoise healthy and happy, a nice, roomy and secure enclosure is a must-have. But with so many terrariums and houses for tortoises to choose from, finding the right one for your pet and home may be difficult. To help you narrow down your selection, we prepared this practical buying guide, in which we talk about all things tortoise enclosures, including how to pick the best one for your little pet.
A: The more space that you can give your tortoise the better. They thrive best when their tortoise habitats have ample space, as well as some decorations. As a general rule, hatchlings and older tortoises up to 4 inches in length should have a space of about 4 feet by 8 feet. Thus, if their inside enclosures are smaller, they will need a bigger outside pen in which to explore the garden and move around freely. However, if you have an adult pair of tortoises you will want a much bigger space. About 10 feet by 20 feet is a great size for two bigger tortoises. Ultimately, you want to give your tortoise enough space to roam around without feeling too restricted. However, safety is paramount, especially in outdoor spaces where they can be attacked by predators, so models with mesh roofs are a must-have when they’re outside. This feature will enable them to walk around safely in their enclosure all the while being able to bask in the sunshine. In essence, the best tortoise enclosure is the one that is quite roomy but still secure.
A: With a few tweaks and changes, you can make a rabbit hutch or cage into a great space for tortoises and build a fantastic enclosure. However, rabbit hutches can be too small, so it’s advisable that your tortoise has ample time in a bigger outdoor pen too. If you have a rabbit cage you will want to add in a plastic floor to ensure that your tortoise can’t slip through.
A: Tortoises need plenty of space to roam around in their enclosure and should have both indoor time and outdoor playtimes. A minimum of 8 feet by 4 feet is advised, and larger breeds will need even bigger spaces. A cage can offer safety at night but needs a few things to keep tortoises comfortable and safe. To make it the best tortoise habitat, you should include:
These features, plus some decorations, will ensure that your pet has the best tortoise enclosure.
While we love all the enclosures on our list, we have opted for this fantastic product by Zoo Med as our best pick. This wooden tortoise hutch is a great choice for those who care about the environment and don’t want plastic homes for their pets. The wooden sliding door enables easy access and the special meshed roof allows your pet to enjoy the sun’s rays whenever they want to. This pick works for both indoor and outdoor use and can be moved around pretty easily as it’s lightweight. It is also weather-resistant and can handle the elements.
Eloise is the owner of a Malamute/Akita cross, a first-time mum, and an animal enthusiast from England. She comes from a family which has never gone a day without a pet (or 3!), and over the years has learned all the best tips and tricks to raising a difficult pet. A knowledge that she has put to good use, to help others navigate the limitless world of pet care.