The Best Terrarium for Your Crested Gecko: A 2022 Buying Guide

As a crested gecko owner choosing the right terrarium is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. The terrarium is your gecko’s home so you want to pick one that will keep your pet happy and healthy. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to select the perfect terrarium for your crested gecko.

What to Look For in a Crested Gecko Terrarium

There are a few key factors to evaluate when shopping for a crested gecko terrarium:

• Size – The minimum size for an adult crested gecko is around 20 gallons. Bigger is usually better, as it gives them more room to climb and explore.

• Shape – Crested geckos are arboreal so height is more important than floor space. Look for a tall vertical terrarium rather than a short, wide one.

• Ventilation – Proper airflow prevents mold and bacteria growth. Screen tops are ideal for ventilation.

• Accessibility – Hinged doors make it easier to access your gecko for regular maintenance and handling.

• Materials – Glass or acrylic tanks retain humidity well. Avoid wood terrariums, which warp over time.

• Features – Some tanks come with built-in backgrounds and ledges for climbing and hiding.

The 4 Best Terrarium Options for Crested Geckos

Based on the criteria above, here are our top picks for crested gecko terrariums:

1. Exo Terra Glass Terrarium

The Exo Terra terrariums are a popular choice for crested geckos. They come in multiple sizes, from nano to extra-large. The dual doors provide easy access, and the screen top allows for ample ventilation. The raised bottom makes adding substrates simple. These tanks also often include naturalistic backgrounds and foliage.

Key Features:

• Dual hinged doors
• Screen top
• Waterproof base
• Natural decor options
• Sizes range from 8 to 36 gallons

2. Zilla Vertical Terrarium Kit

Zilla’s vertical kit comes with everything you need to get started. The glass tank has front-opening doors and a top mesh panel. It also includes branches, leaves, and a background for a naturalistic habitat. Zilla’s terrariums come in sizes from 5 to 20 gallons.

Key Features:

• Front opening doors
• Includes decor and branches
• Mesh top for ventilation
• Sizes from 5 to 20 gallons

3. Zoo Med Crested Gecko Kit

This all-in-one kit from Zoo Med has a 12 x 12 x 18 inch glass terrarium designed specifically for crested geckos. It comes loaded with bamboo, vines, leaves, and a magnetic feeding ledge. The front glass doors provide easy access.

Key Features:

• Made specifically for crested geckos
• Includes decor, plants, feeding ledge
• Front opening glass doors
• 12 x 12 x 18 inches

4. Exo Terra All Glass Terrarium

For those looking for an extra-large tank, the Exo Terra All Glass is a top choice. At 36 x 18 x 36 inches, it provides ample space for an adult crested gecko to climb and explore. Dual doors make access simple, and closable inlets allow cords to be neatly tucked away.

Key Features:

• Extra-large 36 gallon tank
• Dual doors with lock
• Waterproof base
• Closable inlets for cords
• 36 x 18 x 36 inches

Essential Accessories for Your Crested Gecko Terrarium

Once you’ve selected the perfect terrarium tank, there are a few additional accessories you’ll need to create a complete habitat:

• Substrates: Eco earth, sphagnum moss, orchid bark

• Plants: Live or artificial vines, leaves, air plants

• Hideaways: Hollow logs, cork bark, artificial caves

• Water bowl

• Thermometer & hygrometer to monitor temperature and humidity

• Misting system to maintain ideal humidity levels

• Under tank heater (optional) for supplemental belly heat

• Timer for regulating day/night cycles

Where to Place Your Crested Gecko Terrarium

When deciding where to put your crested gecko’s terrarium, there are a few factors to keep in mind:

• Avoid direct sunlight, which can overheat the tank.

• Don’t place near drafts from windows, doors, or vents.

• A room temperature around 72-78°F is ideal.

• Avoid high traffic areas that will stress your gecko.

• Crested geckos are nocturnal, so a bedroom is not the best location.

• Place at eye level so you can easily interact with your pet.

A bedroom, home office, or reptile room tends to be the best spot for enjoying your crested gecko without disruption.

Setting Up a Naturalistic Crested Gecko Terrarium

To create an ideal crested gecko habitat, you’ll want to make the terrarium feel like a miniature rainforest. Here are some tips:

• Use 2-3 inches of substrate like eco earth to hold humidity.

• Add plenty of vines, branches, and leaves for climbing and hiding.

• Live or artificial plants can help recreate the rainforest environment.

• Place a shallow water bowl on the cool side of the tank.

• Set up a hot hide and a cool hide to allow thermoregulation.

• Add leaf litter, mosses, and other decor to provide visual interest.

• A naturalistic background can help your gecko feel secure.

• Allow 1-2 weeks for the tank to stabilize before adding your gecko.

With the right terrarium and setup, you can provide your crested gecko with an engaging habitat that mimics their natural environment. Take the time to choose a tank that offers ample space, ventilation, and accessibility. Add decor, plants, and hides to encourage natural behaviors. With a little effort, you can give your crested gecko a beautiful rainforest home.