A 17-year-old orphan who has recently arrived in New York to escape the devastation of the Dust Bowl. Carrying severe trauma from the loss of his family, he seizes on the giraffes as a symbol of hope and decides to follow them to California. He is hardworking, resourceful, and possesses an inherent empathy for animals that contrasts with the typical survivalist mindset of his era.

The experienced head zookeeper responsible for safely transporting the giraffes across the country to the San Diego Zoo. Known simply as the "Old Man" to many, he acts as a surrogate father figure and moral guide to Woodrow during the perilous journey. He masks a mysterious past behind his gruff exterior but reveals a profound, unyielding dedication to animal welfare.

A young, aspiring photojournalist who trails the giraffe rig hoping to secure a career-making photo-essay for Life Magazine. Running from a restrictive marriage, she seeks professional and personal freedom on the open road. She suffers from a heart condition caused by childhood rheumatic fever, which makes her acutely aware of her limited time and drives her sense of urgency.

A wealthy, unscrupulous circus owner and lion tamer who views animals solely as commodities. He trails the rig with the intent to steal or buy the giraffes for his own financial gain. He represents the era's exploitative entertainment industry and complete lack of animal rights.

An immense male giraffe surviving a hurricane to reach America. He forms a profound, almost spiritual connection with Woodrow during the cross-country trip. He acts as a symbol of wild majesty and a literal heavy presence that must be protected from the dangers of the road.

A female giraffe enduring the arduous journey to California. She sustains an early leg injury that requires constant monitoring by the transport team. Her vulnerability drives much of the tension on the road, while her sheer size captivates the humans who encounter her.

The pioneering female director of the San Diego Zoo. Though she directs operations from afar, her reputation for demanding excellence and championing animal welfare sets the standard for the entire transport mission.

A volatile man who runs a roadside attraction featuring caged desert animals. When the rig stops at his station, he attempts to violently seize a giraffe. He serves as a dangerous example of human cruelty.

An early driver and assistant hired to help Riley transport the giraffes. He proves to be irresponsible, drinking on the job and ultimately fleeing after being kicked by a startled giraffe.

A young girl from the Jackson family, a Black farming family who rescues the rig from a low underpass. Her innocent delight at feeding the giraffes pancakes helps Woodrow unlearn his taught racial prejudices.

Woodrow's relative in New York who was supposed to take him in after he fled the Dust Bowl. He proved to be a cruel and unwelcoming presence, leaving Woodrow entirely alone in the city.

A red-haired woman who frequently visits Woodrow in his old age. She listens to his stories and encourages him to write down the history of the giraffes, anchoring his memories to the present day.