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20 of the Best Zoos in the World

The best zoos in the world pair stellar animal experiences with conservation work.

Courtesy of San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance

Catching a glimpse of your favorite animals up close can be a thrilling experience. And all it takes is visiting the right place. 

Zoos can be controversial, however, many provide the opportunity for people to learn about the global environment and work to help preserve critical species for generations to come. But, before you plan a trip, it's important to ensure the zoo you visit is as ethical as possible. Do your homework to find zoos that offer educational programs, invest in research projects to help endangered animals, or have release programs to get animals back in the wild. If you need a little help starting your research, check out the  Association of Zoos and Aquariums  (AZA) and its  list of AZA-accredited locations . Here are 20 of the best zoos that work hard to make the world a better place for people and animals. 

San Diego Zoo — San Diego, California 

The  San Diego Zoo  has long been considered one of the best zoos in the world. The zoo, which opened its doors in 1916, stretches across 100 acres and is home to more than 12,000 rare and endangered animals. Guests can take part in a number of educational programs and visit knowing a portion of their ticket goes toward  various conservation programs . 

Chester Zoo — England, U.K.

The Chester Zoo  is yet another expansive space with a rich conservation program (and it happens to be the most-visited zoo in the U.K.). The zoo is home to more than 20,000 animals and works to educate every guest on not only their conservation programs but how individuals can take action, too. 

Tiergarten Schönbrunn — Vienna, Austria

The Tiergarten Schönbrunn  in Vienna has the distinct honor of being the world’s oldest zoo. It also happens to be one of the best zoos in the world thanks to its various rare animal exhibits, along with its captive breeding program that’s helping to  save dozens of at-risk species , and its rich  species protection program in the wild . 

Alaska Zoo — Anchorage, Alaska 

The Alaska Zoo  is one of the smaller ones to make this global list, but for a good reason. The Alaska Zoo specializes in local animals, including brown bears, bald eagles, moose, hawks, harbor seals, and more. It is a registered 501(c)3 nonprofit dedicated to promoting the conservation of Arctic and sub-Arctic species. 

Toronto Zoo — Toronto, Canada

The Toronto Zoo  spans a whopping 710 acres, providing its animals with massive, naturalized environments. And that’s a good thing, considering it’s home to more than 5,000 animals. The zoo also has an  in-depth species recovery program , including captive breeding of animals like the Vancouver Island marmot and the black-footed ferret. 

National Zoological Gardens — Pretoria, South Africa

The  National Zoological Gardens , also known as the Pretoria Zoo, is the largest zoo in South Africa. It’s also the only one with national status. The zoo is home to thousands of animals (including several critically endangered species like black and white ruffed lemurs) and works under the mission to “champion the exploration, conservation, sustainable use, appreciation, and enjoyment of South Africa’s exceptionally rich biodiversity for all South Africans.”

Lincoln Park Zoo — Chicago, Illinois

The Lincoln Park Zoo  is one of the oldest zoos in North America and one of the very few that offers free admission to all. That’s right. Anyone can come and say hello to its animals, including African lions and pygmy hippos, for absolutely nothing. Just make sure to take a little time to learn about the zoo’s  impressive global conservation work  while you’re there. 

NurPhoto/Getty Images

Singapore Zoo — Singapore

With more than 4,000 animals sprinkled across the lush rainforest landscape, the Singapore Zoo is a not-to-miss zoo destination. While seeing its animals (including everything from sloths to African penguins) is great, its  educational programs  make this zoo even better, especially for families with young children. 

Taronga Zoo — Sydney, Australia

The Taronga Zoo  is home to 69 acres of land located just across Sydney’s city center. So not only can you come to visit its 350 different species, but you can also take in the spectacular view. This zoo also works on various conservation and breeding programs, including its local  Big City Birds project  that invites the public to report sightings on its easy-to-use app. 

Bronx Zoo — New York City, New York 

The Bronx Zoo  opened its doors way back in 1899. It’s now home to more than 10,000 animals representing 700 different species that live across its 265 acres. And, for more than 120 years, the zoo has worked to  save endangered animals  through its research and breeding, as well as its reintroduction of animals like the American bison to the wild.

Jersey Zoo — Jersey, U.K.

The Jersey Zoo  has been working for more than six decades to help conserve endangered species and their environments, including through the restoration of wild spaces. On a more local level, visitors can come to visit the diverse wildlife in the park and even sleep overnight, thanks to its  unique camping program . 

Henry Doorly Zoo — Omaha, Nebraska

The Henry Doorly Zoo  helps visitors get to know animals on land, at sea, and in the air, thanks to its various habitats. Come check out everything from reptiles to sea lions, a gorilla family to colorful Caribbean fish, and more, all in one place. And guests can walk away knowing their visit contributes, in part, toward its robust conservation programming, including its research into  conservation genetics . 

Drew Angerer/Getty Images

Smithsonian’s National Zoo — Washington, D.C.

Smithsonian’s National Zoo  is more than a space to view animals. Sure, you can visit some of its adorable creatures, but it also happens to be a global leader in conservation efforts and is part of the Smithsonian Institution, the world’s largest museum, and research complex, meaning it has the resources to truly help the animal kingdom. (Still, its  cheetah cubs  are pretty cute.) 

Edinburgh Zoo— Edinburgh, Scotland

The Edinburgh Zoo  is home to more than 2,500 animals from around the world, including its famed giant pandas, a huddle of penguins, and Scotland’s only sloths. It’s also a place with rich educational activities for visitors of all ages, including school programs and opportunities to spend time with its conservation team. 

Melbourne Zoo — Melbourne, Australia 

The Melbourne Zoo , a nonprofit organization, is another spectacular place to see your favorite animals and even get personal with a few species with its  exclusive animal encounters program . Through the program, guests can meet and greet with seals, snag before-hours tickets to have the animals all to themselves, and even get a behind-the-scenes look at the elephant habitat. 

Berlin Zoological Garden — Berlin, Germany

The Berlin Zoological Garden , which opened in 1844, is home to the largest variety of animals of any zoo in the world. Come see its more than 20,000 animals representing more than 1,300 species, including a few polar bears. The zoo also has a powerful conservation program, including its  worldwide species conservation  work that helps to save rare and endangered animals across the globe. 

Wellington Zoo — Wellington, New Zealand

The Wellington Zoo  was New Zealand’s first zoo, as well as the area’s oldest conservation program. At the zoo, guests can visit its chimpanzees, snow leopards, and even a few very special kiwi birds. Visitors can take part in learning programs and a few close encounters with sun bears, giraffes, and more. 

Cincinnati Zoo — Cincinnati, Ohio 

The Cincinnati Zoo  began as the Zoological Society of Cincinnati in 1873, making it the second-oldest zoo in the U.S. It remains a beloved destination home to plentiful animal species, including small critters like the blue death feigning beetle and large ones like the black rhino. 

Basel Zoo — Basel, Switzerland

The Basel Zoo  encompasses 27 acres of space and is home to more than 5,000 animals. Though it can be hard to keep track as the zoo is also home to a rather comprehensive breeding program, helping to save endangered animals from extinction. And a portion of every ticket goes toward continuing the program to assist even more species. 

Houston Zoo — Houston, Texas

The Houston Zoo  is one of the most popular zoos in America. It sees more than 2 million guests walk through its doors annually to visit its more than 6,000 animals. And all those visits help to support its global conservation work, as well as its local projects that aim to protect native animals, like the Houston toad, from extinction. 

The 60 Best Zoos in the World | 2024 (with Photos)

James A. Smith - Chief Editor

Last Updated: March 25, 2024

Hey there! I'm James, an avid traveler who loves exploring the world's best zoos. With my firsthand knowledge and passion for wildlife, I've compiled a list of the top 60 zoos in the world for an unforgettable animal adventure.

Discover the fascinating world of some of the best zoos on the planet, where exotic animals thrive and visitors of all ages are captivated by the wonders of wildlife.

From the renowned San Diego Zoo, home to over 3,500 animals, to the enchanting Singapore Zoo, a pioneer in open-concept exhibits, these top-tier institutions offer a memorable experience for everyone.

Dive into this Travel-Lingual guide to learn about the fascinating features of children's zoos, the importance of a national zoological garden, and how these zoos are working tirelessly to protect and increase their diverse populations.

Prepare to embark on an unforgettable journey.

Most Recommended Thing to Do

Berlin Wall Memorial

Top Choice Hotel

Hotel Adlon

Our Top Choice Restaurant

Restaurant Tim Raue

Our Top Choice Bar for Nightlife

Best Time to Visit

Spring or fall; avoid winter and peak summer.

Average Temperature

Moderate with cold winters and mild summers.

Transportation Options

Buses, trams, trains, bikes, taxis offer Berlin transportation.

Average Cost ($, $$, $$$)

My Top Recommendation

Berlin is a vibrant city that seamlessly blends history and modernity. One must-visit recommendation is to start your day by exploring the iconic Brandenburg Gate, where you can soak in the city's rich history and admire the stunning architecture - don't forget your camera! Afterward, head to Mauerpark, a popular hangout spot, to experience the lively atmosphere, browse through unique flea market finds, and catch live music performances - you might even muster up the courage to showcase your singing skills at the famous Bearpit Karaoke.

Berlin, with its diverse cultural scene, offers numerous activities to make your time here unforgettable. One must-see is the fascinating East Side Gallery, a vibrant stretch of the Berlin Wall adorned with stunning murals created by artists from around the world - take a leisurely walk and immerse yourself in the thought-provoking artwork. As the evening approaches, wrap up your day at Charlottenburg Palace, where you can stroll through the beautifully manicured gardens, savor a delightful dinner at one of its charming restaurants, and witness the palace come alive with enchanting light displays during the summer months - a truly magical experience.

What You'll Need to Bring

• Valid passport
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Weather-appropriate clothing
• Travel adapter for electronics
• Guidebook or map of the city
• Language translation app or phrasebook
• Personal medication, if needed
• Cash and/or credit cards
• Camera or smartphone for capturing memories
• Open mind and sense of adventure.

What Not to Miss

• Brandenburg Gate
• Berlin Wall
• Museum Island
• Reichstag Building
• Checkpoint Charlie
• East Side Gallery
• Charlottenburg Palace
• Berlin Cathedral
• Holocaust Memorial
• Potsdamer Platz
• Alexanderplatz
• Tiergarten Park

What to Avoid

• Pickpocketing in crowded areas
• Using unlicensed taxis or unofficial transportation services
• Taking pictures without permission in sensitive locations
• Supporting illegal street vendors or buying counterfeit goods
• Drinking alcohol in public places where it is prohibited
• Engaging in political discussions or debates in public spaces
• Ignoring traffic rules or jaywalking
• Being disrespectful or insensitive towards local customs and traditions
• Using offensive or inappropriate language in public
• Leaving valuable belongings unattended in public areas.

Table of Contents

1. San Diego Zoo

San Diego Zoo, one of the best zoos in the world, is known for its giant pandas, animals native to the region, and successful programs for breeding.

With extensive conservation efforts and a vast array of creatures, it's a must-visit on any zoo trip.

2. Singapore Zoo

Zoo in Singapore boasts a naturalistic setting for its critically endangered species, such as the Asian elephants and pandas.

With that in mind, this zoo is focused on the conservation of wildlife and the welfare of animals, it offers visitors an immersive experience with its open-concept design and lush landscapes.

3. Bronx Zoo

Bronx Zoo, located in Bronx Park, is a famous zoo with one of the largest animal collections in the world.

The Bronx Zoo opened in 1899, making it one of the oldest zoos in the United States , and is home to African elephants, snow leopards, and many other exotic creatures.

4. Beijing Zoo

Beijing Zoo, often called the children's zoo, is known for its giant panda population and is one of the largest zoos in the world.

The Beijing Zoo also houses other endangered animals like lions and species that are endangered, while maintaining strong conservation and breeding programs.

This is what makes it one of the best zoos in the world.

5. Toronto Zoo

Toronto Zoo is Canada's largest zoo, with a strong focus on conservation and education.

Home to polar bears, bush elephants, and other animals native to the region, Toronto Zoo is dedicated to providing the best possible care and habitats for the animals. It even has an animal hospital.

6. Chester Zoo

Chester Zoo, a beloved zoo in the UK, is home to many species that are endangered, such as the Asian elephants and rhinos.

With a strong focus on conservation and programs for breeding, Chester Zoo is actively involved in wildlife preservation efforts.

7. Taronga Zoo

Taronga Zoo in Sydney, Australia , offers stunning views of the harbor and is home to a wide variety of animals native to the region, including kangaroos and koalas.

The zoo is dedicated to conservation and education, with innovative programs like the Taronga Wildlife Hospital.

8. Wellington Zoo

Wellington Zoo, New Zealand's first zoo, is committed to the welfare of animals and conservation.

Visitors to Zoo in Wellington can see animals native to the region like the kiwi, as well as creatures such as pandas and bears while learning about the zoo's efforts to protect species that are endangered.

9. Berlin Zoological Garden

The Berlin Zoo, the most visited zoo in Germany, is home to a wide variety of species that are endangered, such as polar bears and giraffes.

The zoo is known for its world-class habitats and commitment to land animals.

10. Henry Doorly Zoo

Henry Doorly Zoo in Omaha, Nebraska , is often considered one of the best zoos in the world.

With a focus on the conservation of wildlife and education, the zoo houses a diverse range of animals, including leopards, lions, and elephants.

11. Prague Zoo

Prague Zoo, a renowned zoo in the Czech Republic , is committed to the conservation of species that are endangered and animal welfare.

Visitors can see rare species like bears and Przewalski's horses while learning about the zoo's extensive programs for breeding.

12. Vienna Zoo

Vienna Zoo, also known as Schönbrunn Zoo , is the world's oldest zoo, located within the beautiful Schönbrunn Palace grounds.

With its commitment to the welfare of animals and conservation, the zoo is home to a diverse range of species, including giant pandas and giraffes.

13. National Zoological Gardens of South Africa (Pretoria Zoo)

National Zoological Gardens of South Africa, or Pretoria Zoo, is committed to the conservation of wildlife.

Visitors can see a wide array of endangered animals, such as bush elephants and lions, as well as a variety of other creatures.

14. National Zoo (Washington, D.C.)

The National Zoo in Washington, D.C ., part of the Smithsonian Institution, focuses on the conservation of wildlife and research.

Home to giant pandas, giraffes, and other species that are endangered, the zoo is dedicated to preserving biodiversity and educating visitors about the natural world.

15. London Zoo

Zoo in London , situated in Regent's Park, is the world's oldest scientific zoo. It boasts a strong commitment to the welfare of animals and conservation .

In addition to the animals, visitors to this zoo can enjoy a wonderful atmosphere.

16. Columbus Zoo

Columbus Zoo , located in Ohio, is known for its expansive habitats and diverse range of animals, including bears and elephants.

The zoo is committed to the conservation of wildlife and education, providing unique experiences for visitors of all ages.

17. Welsh Mountain Zoo

Welsh Mountain Zoo, nestled in the beautiful countryside of North Wales, is home to endangered species like leopards and pandas.

With a focus on the welfare of animals and conservation, the zoo offers a memorable experience with its spectacular views and intimate encounters.

18. Arignar Anna Zoological Park

Arignar Anna Zoological Park in India is one of the biggest zoos in the world, with a wide variety of animals native to the region and species that are endangered.

The zoo is committed to the conservation of wildlife, programs for breeding, and providing a naturalistic environment for its inhabitants.

19. Australia Zoo

Australia Zoo , founded by the famous "Crocodile Hunter" Steve Irwin, focuses on the conservation of wildlife and education.

Home to a variety of native animals like koalas and kangaroos, as well as exotic species such as lions, the zoo offers thrilling animal encounters and interactive experiences.

20. St. Louis Zoo

St. Louis Zoo, located in Missouri , is renowned for its commitment to the welfare of animals and conservation.

Visitors can see a diverse range of animals, including grizzly bears, sea lions, and pandas while learning about the zoo's extensive conservation efforts.

21. Prague Zoological Garden

Prague Zoo is dedicated to the conservation of endangered species and their natural habitats.

The zoo houses a wide variety of animals, including bears and species that are endangered, and provides visitors with a unique and educational experience.

22. Brookfield Zoo

Brookfield Zoo, located near Chicago , is known for its immersive exhibits and commitment to the welfare of animals.

Home to a diverse range of species, including African bush elephants and grizzly bears, the zoo focuses on the education and conservation of wildlife.

23. Taipei Zoo

Taipei Zoo houses a wide variety of animals, including pandas, giraffes, and pandas.

The zoo is committed to the welfare of animals and conservation, offering visitors an educational and engaging experience.

24. Ueno Zoo

Ueno Zoo in Tokyo, Japan , is home to a diverse range of animals, including pandas, leopards, and elephants.

With a strong focus on conservation and education, the zoo provides visitors with an unforgettable experience.

25. Houston Zoo

Houston Zoo is one of the most visited zoos in the United States. Much like its US counterparts, it is dedicated to the conservation of wildlife and the welfare of animals.

With a wide variety of species, including African lions and sea lions, the zoo offers engaging experiences for visitors of all ages.

26. Edinburgh Zoo

Zoo in Edinburgh , Scotland, is known for its commitment to the conservation of wildlife and research.

Home to the UK's only penguins and a variety of other species that are endangered, the zoo provides an unforgettable experience for visitors while supporting global conservation efforts.

27. Basel Zoo

Basel Zoo in Switzerland is home to a wide variety of animals, including giraffes and snow leopards.

With a strong focus on conservation and research, the zoo offers visitors an opportunity to learn about species that are endangered and their habitats.

28. Schönbrunn Zoo (Vienna)

Schönbrunn Zoo, located within the historic Schönbrunn Palace grounds in Vienna , is the world's oldest zoo.

Home to a diverse range of species, including pandas and bears, the zoo is dedicated to the welfare of animals, education, and conservation.

29. Berlin Zoo (Tierpark Berlin)

Berlin Zoo (Tierpark Berlin) is one of the largest zoos in the world, with a focus on the conservation of wildlife and education.

Home to a wide variety of species, including zebras and elephants, the zoo offers visitors an engaging experience in a beautiful park setting.

30. Artis Zoo (Amsterdam)

Artis Zoo in Amsterdam is not just considered one of the best zoos in the world but is also one of the oldest zoos in Europe. It is known for its commitment to the welfare of animals and conservation.

With a diverse range of animals, such as pandas and giraffes, visitors can learn about the natural world and the zoo's ongoing efforts to protect it.

31. Melbourne Zoo

Zoo in Melbourne in Australia is home to numerous animals native to the region, on the many achers that the zoo covers, it houses animals such as kangaroos and koalas, as well as exotic species like elephants.

Committed to the conservation of wildlife and the welfare of animals, the zoo offers visitors an opportunity to experience close encounters with a variety of species.

32. Yokohama Zoological Gardens (Zoorasia)

Yokohama Zoological Gardens (Zoorasia) in Japan is dedicated to the conservation of species that are endangered and the promotion of the welfare of animals.

Home to a diverse range of animals, including pandas and elephants, the zoo offers visitors an educational and memorable experience.

33. North Carolina Zoo

Zoo in North Carolina , focuses on conservation, education, and the welfare of animals.

With a wide variety of species, including bears and lions, the zoo provides visitors with an engaging experience while promoting the protection of species that are endangered.

34. Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium

Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium is known for its commitment to the conservation of wildlife, research, and education.

Home to a diverse range of animals, including leopards and giraffes, the zoo offers visitors an unforgettable experience while supporting global conservation efforts.

35. Zoo de Beauval (France)

Zoo de Beauval in France is one of the most famous zoos in Europe, known for its extensive collection of species that are endangered and its commitment to conservation.

Home to animals like koalas and elephants, the zoo offers visitors an engaging and educational experience.

36. San Francisco Zoo

Zoo in San Francisco , situated on the Pacific coast, is home to a diverse range of animals, including grizzlies and zebras.

The zoo is dedicated to the conservation of wildlife and education, providing visitors with an immersive experience and a connection to the natural world.

37. Dallas Zoo

Zoo in Dallas is also known for its commitment to conservation, research, and the welfare of animals.

With a diverse range of species, including elephants and leopards, the zoo offers visitors an engaging and educational experience.

38. Philadelphia Zoo

Philadelphia Zoo, America's first zoo, focuses on species that are endangered, the welfare of animals, and education.

Home to a variety of animals, including red pandas and African lions, the zoo provides visitors with an unforgettable experience while promoting the protection of species that are endangered.

39. Zoo Miami

Zoo Miami, the largest zoo in Florida , is home to a wide variety of animals, including elephants and giraffes.

With a focus on conservation, the zoo offers visitors an engaging experience while promoting the protection of species that are endangered and their habitats.

That being said, one of the most unique aspects of this zoo is the reptile park.

40. Auckland Zoo

Much like many of the other zoos listed in this article, Auckland Zoo in New Zealand is dedicated to the conservation of wildlife, the welfare of animals, and education.

Visitors can experience close encounters with native animals like the kiwi and exotic species such as zebras while learning about the zoo's efforts to protect species that are endangered.

41. Calgary Zoo

Calgary Zoo in Canada is known for its commitment to the conservation of wildlife, research, and education.

Home to a diverse range of animals, including leopards and elephants, the zoo offers visitors an unforgettable experience while supporting global conservation efforts.

42. National Zoological Park (Delhi, India)

National Zoological Park in Delhi, India , is home to a diverse range of animals, including native species and endangered animals.

The zoo focuses on conservation, breeding programs, and providing a naturalistic environment for its inhabitants.

43. Adelaide Zoo

The Adelaide Zoo in Australia is committed to the conservation of wildlife. It houses a wide variety of animals, including the world-famous giant pandas.

The zoo offers an exciting experience for visitors while also advocating for the safety of endangered animals and their natural habitats.

44. Sleeping Zoo (Bangkok, Thailand)

The Dusit Zoo in Bangkok, Thailand , is home to many different animals, from tigers to rare birds.

In fact, the zoo's population of animals is over 5000 .

Sleeping Zoo's mission is to improve the lives of animals, protect species that are endangered, and provide an enjoyable experience for its visitors.

45. Leipzig's Zoological Gardens (Leipzig Zoo)

The Leipzig Zoo in Germany has a strong reputation for its dedication to wildlife preservation and animal care.

The zoo provides an exciting experience for visitors, who can learn about and help conserve species that are endangered like elephants and leopards.

46. Zoo of La Palmyre (France)

The French zoo La Palmyre is well-known for its dedication to conservation and its collection of rare species that are endangered.

The zoo is a fascinating place to learn about animals like lions and pandas.

47. Warsaw Zoo

Warsaw, Poland's zoo is well-known for its dedication to animal preservation and education.

The zoo provides an unforgettable experience for visitors and promotes the conservation of species that are endangered through its collection of animals, which includes giraffes and polar bears.

48. Park of the Animals in Zurich

The Zurich Zoo, located in Switzerland , is dedicated to wildlife preservation, scientific inquiry, and animal care.

The zoo supports global conservation efforts and provides an unforgettable experience for visitors by housing a wide variety of species, including leopards and elephants.

49. Whipsnade Zoo (United Kingdom)

One of the largest conservation parks in Europe, the Whipsnade Zoo in the United Kingdom is home to a wide range of animals, from lions to elephants.

When you visit the zoo, you'll get an unforgettable experience while also doing your part to save species that are endangered.

50. Taronga Zoo Sydney Australia

Taronga Zoo , located in Sydney, Australia, is one of the best zoos in the world. It offers breathtaking views of the iconic Sydney Harbour.

With over 4,000 animals representing more than 350 species, this renowned zoo is committed to wildlife conservation, research, and education. It even has a petting zoo.

51. Smithsonian National Zoo (Washington, D.C.)

Smithsonian National Zoo in Washington, D.C., is dedicated to the conservation of wildlife, research, and the welfare of animals.

With a diverse range of animals, including pandas and lions, the zoo offers visitors an engaging experience while promoting the protection of species that are endangered.

52. Pairi Daiza (Belgium)

Pairi Daiza in Belgium is a unique zoological park that combines the conservation of wildlife with immersive cultural experiences.

Home to a diverse range of animals, including giraffes and leopards, the zoo offers visitors a memorable and educational experience.

53. ZooParc de Beauval (France)

ZooParc de Beauval in France is renowned for its extensive collection of species that are endangered and its commitment to conservation.

Home to animals like pandas and elephants, the zoo offers visitors an engaging and educational experience .

54. Lisbon Zoo

Lisbon Zoo in Portugal is known for its commitment to the welfare of animals and conservation.

Home to a wide variety of animals, including giraffes and zebras, the zoo provides visitors with an immersive experience while promoting the protection of endangered species.

55. Franklin Park Zoo (Boston)

Franklin Park Zoo in Boston is dedicated to the conservation of wildlife, the welfare of animals, and education.

Home to a variety of animals, including pandas and lions, the zoo offers visitors an unforgettable experience while promoting the protection of species that are endangered.

56. Oregon Zoo

Oregon Zoo, located in Portland , is committed to the welfare of animals, conservation, and education.

With a diverse range of species, including elephants and zebras, the zoo provides visitors with an engaging experience while supporting global conservation efforts.

57. Al Ain Zoo (United Arab Emirates)

Al Ain Zoo in the United Arab Emirates is home to a wide variety of animals, including lions and native species of the Arabian Peninsula.

Focused on conservation, the zoo offers visitors an engaging and educational experience while promoting the protection of endangered species.

58. Tama Zoological Park (Tokyo)

Tama Zoological Park in Tokyo, Japan, houses a diverse range of animals, including elephants and pandas.

The zoo is dedicated to the welfare of animals, conservation, and providing visitors with an engaging experience while promoting the protection of species that are endangered.

59. Rio de Janeiro Zoo

Rio de Janeiro Zoo in Brazil focuses on the conservation of wildlife, animal welfare, and education.

Home to a variety of animals, including native species and endangered animals, the zoo offers visitors an engaging experience while promoting the protection of endangered species.

60. Antwerp Zoo (Belgium)

Zoo in Antwerp in Belgium, one of the oldest zoos in the world, is home to a wide variety of animals, including red pandas and zebras.

The zoo is dedicated to conservation and education, providing visitors with a unique experience while promoting the protection of species that are endangered and their habitats.

FAQs about the best zoos in the world

Let's go through a couple of the most common questions people have about the best zoos in the world.

What is the number 1 zoo in the world?

While it is difficult to definitively declare a single zoo as number 1 in the world, the Singapore Zoo is often considered one of the top contenders due to its innovative open-concept exhibits, diverse collection of exotic animals, and commitment to conservation efforts.

Other highly-regarded zoos include San Diego Zoo, London Zoo, and Berlin Zoological Garden.

What is the number 1 zoo in America?

The San Diego Zoo in California is frequently recognized as the number 1 zoo in America, thanks to its impressive variety of animals, exceptional conservation efforts, and engaging exhibits.

Summing Up: 60 Best Zoos in the World

In this article, we’ve explored some of the world's best zoos, highlighting the exceptional features and conservation efforts of institutions such as the San Diego Zoo, Singapore Zoo, and others.

These zoos showcase animals, innovative exhibits, and children's zoos while contributing to the zoological gardens' missions to protect and preserve wild animals.

Plan your visit to one of these amazing zoos and experience the wonders of wildlife firsthand.

Berlin Zoological Garden

Berlin Zoo (Tierpark Berlin)

Leipzig's Zoological Gardens (Leipzig Zoo)

Artis Zoo (Amsterdam)

Schönbrunn Zoo (Vienna)

Prague zoological garden, related articles, featured in.

50 Best Zoos in the World

From Europe to the Americas, to Asia and Africa, and back to Europe again, we’ve put together a comprehensive list of the best zoos in the world, where you can find wild animals — from cutesy lemurs to roaring tigers.

Ready? So, read on and discover why these zoos are the cream of the crop.

1 – San Diego Zoo, USA

Founded in 1916, San Diego Zoo houses more than 3,500 animals across 650 different species and has often been awarded as one of the best zoos in the world. It was also one of the first zoos to have open-air, cageless exhibits and is situated in the beautiful Balboa Park.

2 – Singapore Zoo, Singapore

One of the best zoos in the world, Singapore Zoo has several exciting attractions, including Orangutan Island. See the world’s largest tree-dwelling mammals and enjoy a jungle breakfast with them.

If you are traveling to Southeast Asia , make sure to visit Singapore Zoo.

3 – Loro Parque, Spain

Watch the Sea Lions perform at Loro Parque , a 33-acre zoo with an extensive and diverse reserve of animal and plant species. Loro Parque is also one of the best zoos in the world to observe parrots.

4 – St. Louis Zoo, USA

There are 1,700 animals from 600 species across 90 acres at St. Louis Zoo . Jump on an Emerson Zooline Railroad and stop off at all the best attractions at the zoo.

5 – Henry Doorly Zoo, USA

A visit to Henry Doorly Zoo provides you with the chance to see elephants, white rhinos, cheetahs, sable antelopes, bongos, ostriches, and impalas.

6 – Rotterdam Zoo, Netherlands

The Dutch call it Diergaarde Blijdorp, but you’ll know it as Rotterdam Zoo . It’s one of the oldest zoos in the Netherlands and is spread across 65 acres, which houses more than 180 species.

7 – Australia Zoo, Australia

Billed as the “home of the crocodile hunter”, Australia Zoo is synonymous with the late Steve Irwin and his family, who have helped rescue 90,000 animals. The zoo is over 1,000 square acres and sees over 700k tourists per year.

8 – Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, USA

Enjoy wildlife and a botanical garden at Cincinnati Zoo , which is the fifth-oldest of its kind in the US. From Aardvarks to Eastern Bongos and King Cobras to lemurs, there’s a variety of animals to discover.

9 – Lisbon Zoo, Portugal

A zoological garden, Lisbon Zoo has around 2,000 and 300 species including 114 mammals, 157 birds, 56 reptiles, and five amphibians and arthropods.

10 – ZSL London zoo, UK

The world’s oldest scientific zoo, ZSL London Zoo is located in Regent’s Park right in the heart of London. It houses 673 species, with exhibits including Land of the Lions, Gorilla Kingdom, and Tiger Territory.

11 – Bronx Zoo, USA

See a range of animals at Bronx Zoo , including the most extensive displayed collection of origami elephants in the world. The Bronx Zoo also exhibits a remnant of the ice age, a 30 dense ton rocking stone.

12 – Zoo Berlin, Germany

Opened in 1844, Zoo Berlin is one of the oldest of its kind. It has 1,380 different species and more than 20,000 animals — including polar bears and giant pandas — to discover.

13 – ZooParc de Beauval, France

Get friendly with 10,000 animals as ZooParc de Beauval , which has one of the largest animal collections in France and Europe.

14 – Schönbrunn Zoo, Austria

Located on the grounds of the famous Schönbrunn Palace, Schönbrunn Zoo is the oldest operating zoo in the world. See a variety of animals, including the diving otters, pandas, and koalas.

15 – Toronto Zoo, Canada

You can enjoy seven zoogeographic regions at Toronto Zoo . These include Indo-Malaya, Africa, the Americas, Tundra Trek, Australasia, Eurasia, and the Canadian Domain.

16 – Houston Zoo, USA

More than two million people visit Houston Zoo each year to see the 6,000 animals from 900 species. Exhibits include the African Forest and Kipp Aquarium.

17 – Beijing Zoo, China

Known for its panda house, Beijing Zoo is the biggest zoo in China and features 450 species of land animals. There’s also an aquarium with 500  marine animals like dolphins and sharks.

18 – Smithsonian National Zoological Park, USA

As one of the most diverse zoos in the US, visitors can expect to find African lions, Asian elephants, and giant pandas at Smithsonian National Zoological Park . Entry is also free.

19 – National Zoological Gardens of South Africa, South Africa

The Zoological Gardens of South Africa is the national zoo and covers 200 acres of land. It’s one of the eight largest zoos in the world and is also one of the most highly rated.

20 – Taronga Zoo Sydney, Australia

Taronga Zoo Sydney is Australia’s largest zoo and is over 100 years old. There are eight zoogeographic regions spread over 69 acres with 350 species living there. This is also one of the best zoos in the world to observe koalas.

21 – Los Angeles Zoo, USA

Who needs to see the stars in LA when you can see wild animals? The Los Angeles Zoo & Botanical Gardens have 270 species and 1,400 animals to observe.

22 – Zoo La Palmyre, France

Zoo La Palmyre lies in the heart of a forest and features 145 species and 1,600 animals. You’ll find several threatened species at the zoo, including the Asian elephant and White rhinoceros.

23 – Parque das Aves, Brazil

One of the world’s best bird zoos, Parque das Aves has blue-and-yellow macaw, parrots, and toco toucans amongst others. It’s a bird lover’s delight!

24 – Columbus Zoo And Aquarium, USA

See the animals on land and water at Columbus Zoo and Aquarium , which was once named the best zoo in the US. Make sure you check out the Polar Frontier, as well as the Asia Quest and North America region.

25 – Moscow Zoo, Russia

A national zoo in Russia, Moscow Zoo has over 7,500 animals. The zoo also studies animal behavior, feeding, and reproduction, and breeds rare endangered species.

26 – Wellington Zoo, New Zealand

As New Zealand’s oldest zoo, there’s plenty of history at Wellington Zoo . There are more than 500 animals and an array of exhibitions, including Grassland Cats and Monkey Island.

27 – Ueno Zoo, Japan

Ueno Zoo is found in Ueno Park in Tokyo, where there are museums, a small amusement park, to name a few. The primary attraction, however, is Ueno Zoo with its 2,600 animals.

28 – Basel Zoo, Switzerland

Officially called Zoologischer Garten Basel , Basel Zoo sees over 1.9 million visitors per year. It was the first zoo to have Indian rhinoceros, as well as the first greater flamingo hatch.

29 – Dublin Zoo, Ireland

Home to more than 500 animals and world-class habitats, Dublin Zoo is one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions. Enjoy exhibits including The Asian Forests, which has lion cubs and more.

30 – Chester Zoo, UK

The most-visited wildlife attraction in Britain, Chester Zoo sees 1.9 million visitors each year. TripAdvisor named it the best zoo in the Uk and third-best in the world.

31 – São Paulo Zoo, Brazil

The largest zoo in Brazil, São Paulo Zoo houses 3,200 animals from 102 species across 200 acres. The zoo has a farm that produces vegetables used to feed various animals.

32 – Philadelphia Zoo, USA

Philadelphia Zoo is known as one of the premier zoos for breeding animals that are hard to breed in captivity. It’s home to 1,300 animals and has a petting zoo for children.

33 – Artis Royal Zoo, Netherlands

Short for Natura Artis Magistra, Artis Royal Zoo is located right in the center of Amsterdam and the oldest zoo in the Netherlands. As well as the zoo, visitors can enjoy an aquarium and a planetarium.

34 – Copenhagen Zoo, Denmark

Copenhagen Zoo is the fourth most-visited attraction in Denmark. It’s known for its Elephant House, which was designed by famous British architect Norman Foster.

35 – Pairi Daiza, Belgium

Pairi Daiza is a large animal theme park that is home to more than 4,000 animals. Exhibits include Algoa Bay with its harbor seals and La Terre du Froid with its reindeer and American bison.

36 – Bioparco Zoo, Italy

Part of the original Villa Borghese estate in Rome, Bioparco Zoo is among the largest and oldest Zoological Gardens in Italy. You’ll find everything from bears to frogs at Bioparco Zoo.

37 – Miami Zoo, USA

There is a wealth of animals to see at Miami Zoo , including the African lion, giant otters, jaguars, and more. The zoo is the only subtropical zoo in the continental US and one of the best zoos in the world to observe crocodiles. It is also one of the best things to do in Miami .

38 – Temaiken, Argentina

The only AZA-accredited zoo in Argentina, Temaiken specializes in Argentine wildlife and exotic and threatened species. There’s a large range of mammals and birds to meet at Temaiken.

39 – Dallas Zoo, USA

Home to 2,000 animals from 400 species, Dallas Zoo has exciting exhibitions like ZooNorth where there are otters and Galápagos tortoises. The Endangered Tiger Habitat is one of the biggest attractions at the zoo.

40 – Budapest Zoo & Botanical Garden, Hungary

One of the oldest zoos in the world, Budapest Zoo & Botanical Garden has more than 1,000 animals and is located right in the heart of Budapest — an unusual feat for a zoo.

41 – Woodland Park Zoo, USA

Explore Woodland Park Zoo ’s 92 acres and meet a bunch of furry new friends that include African Savanna lions, rhinos, and grizzly bears.

42 – Zoo Leipzig, Germany

Eight hundred fifty species live at Zoo Leipzig , and you can see them at the six authentic themed worlds that include Founders Garden, Pongland, and Gondwanaland.

43 – Taipei Zoo, Taiwan

Sometimes referred to as Muzha Zoo, Taipei Zoo is famous for its zoological garden and is a leader in conservation, research, and education of its species. it is also one of the best zoos in the world to see pandas.

44 – Brookfield Zoo, USA

Also known as the Chicago Zoological Park, Brookfield Zoo houses over 450 species of animals since 1934. it is particularly one of the best zoos in the world to observe big cats.

45 – Gramado Zoo, Brazil

A quaint and quirky zoo, Gramado Zoo specializes in species native to Brazil and places a strong emphasis on animal welfare.

46 – Lincoln Park Zoo, USA

Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in North America and exhibits big cats, reptiles, gorillas, monkeys, polar bears, and penguins.

47 – Edinburgh Zoo, UK

Edinburgh has many popular tourist attractions, but the city’s zoo is right up there at the top of the list. The Edinburgh Zoo was the first zoo in the world to house and breed penguins. it is also one of the best zoos in the world to see zebras.

48 – Prague Zoo, Czech Republic

There are a whopping 5,000 animals from 675 species at Prague Zoo . It’s rated at the fifth-best zoo in the world by TripAdvisor.

49 – Arignar Anna Zoological Park, India

Also known as Vandalur Zoo, Arignar Anna Zoological Park was the first public zoo in India. It houses 2,553 species of flora and fauna across 1,265 acres, 1,500 of which are wild species.

50 – Valencia Bioparc, Spain

Valencia Bioparc is well known for its extensive collection of African Fauna. The concept of the zoo immerses visitors into the animals’ habitat and not the other way around.

We hope you enjoyed our selection of the best zoos in the world. Comment below and tell us which zoo is your favorite.

The 15 Best Zoos in the World (Our Favorites in 2024)

Written by: Author Andrew Helling  |  Reviewed by: Sandy Mitchell

Andrew Helling is a licensed pilot, travel enthusiast, and the founder of Travellers Worldwide whose travel expertise has been quoted in countless publications across the web. Armed with a laptop and a Wi-Fi connection, he loves exploring the world with his wife and son and is always on the hunt for cheap flights and new adventures... Learn More

Sandy Mitchell is a travel expert and the content reviewer/fact checker at Travellers Worldwide. Using the experience she gained working in the travel industry for more than 20 years, as a travel agent, travel marketing executive, and cruise school administrator, Sandy fact-checks and reviews each of our guides to ensure they're as accurate and helpful as possible... Learn More

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Going to the zoo is a childhood delight. However, it’s not only exciting for children. All humans are fascinated with the animal world, especially the more exotic animals, which shows in the sheer number of zoos worldwide. Below, we’ll show you the best zoos in the world, what each one has to offer, and why you’ll love visiting them.

15 Must-Visit Zoos Around the Globe

When you’re picking your next travel destination, planning around the best zoos in the world is a great place to start. We’ve rounded up each of these and listed their best sights. See our picks below!

1. Beijing Zoo

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The oldest zoo and public park in China, the Beijing Zoo, has an extensive collection of pandas. The panda house is the main draw for this zoo, but it’s not the only thing to see. There are almost 1,000 different species of animals in the large zoo. 

The Beijing Zoo has a base cost of 15 yuan (a little over $2) for entrance. However, you pay more for various events, including their panda house and aquarium. Altogether, you won’t spend more than $15 per ticket at the Beijing Zoo. There are also food vendors and gift shops for souvenirs. 

2. Berlin Zoo 

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The Berlin Zoological Garden in Germany has been around since the nineteenth century and has an  incredible, if war-torn, history . The zoo covers just under 90 acres and has a polar bear exhibit, an aquarium, African and Asian mammals, and many other exhibits. 

Tickets to the Berlin Zoo cost about $19 for adults. There is free parking outside the zoo on the weekends, but you might have to pay extra to park during the week. However, there is plenty of public transportation in Berlin that makes stops at the zoo. 

3. Bronx Zoo

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One of the largest zoos in America is snuggled within the confines of New York City. Find that hard to believe? Then you will be surprised by the variety and spacious enclosures of the Bronx Zoo. It’s difficult to see everything in the park in one day, so plan on starting early or only hitting the most important exhibits. 

The Bronx Zoo costs $25 for adults and $17 for children. However, the zoo also offers an unlimited access option which includes extra rides and attractions in the park. This package costs $35 for adults and $25 for children.  

4. Chester Zoo 

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England’s largest zoo, the Chester Zoo, has more than 35,000 animals tucked away into the English countryside. Chester Zoo specializes in endangered animals, including the near-extinct black rhinos.

They have some of the last black rhinos globally and have played a significant role in repopulating the species.  There are many more animals to see than just the rhinos, however!

The zoo also has a parrot breeding center, animals from every continent, and a butterfly garden. The zoologists specialize in endangered species from tropical islands and feature several Komodo dragons.  Tickets to the Chester Zoo are ￡16 each, or about $22. 

5. Henry Doorly Zoo 

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Located in Omaha, Nebraska, the Henry Doorly Zoo focuses on research, preservation, and education. They have just under 1,000 animal species from all over the world. The Henry Doorly Zoo also has several food vendors with reasonable prices, although you can also bring your food. 

Tickets to Henry Doorly are $19 for adults, $17 for seniors, and $13 for children. They offer special events and discounts throughout the year, especially during the off-season. The Lozier Giant Screen Theater is an Imax theater that shows educational and nature movies in 2D and 3D. 

6. Japan National Zoo

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Yokohama Zoological Gardens, Japan’s national zoo, is more commonly known as Zoorasia. The zoo is known for its exotic bird exhibit, featuring African, Asian, and South American birds of different varieties. There is a stunning walk-through bird enclosure that allows visitors to come even closer to the animals! 

The other animals in the park are excellent as well. Zoorasia’s enclosures are wide open and give the animals an almost natural habitat. The free environment makes the animals more lively and keeps them healthy. Tickets cost a little over $7 for Zoorasia. 

7. National Zoo

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Known as the National Zoo, the Smithsonian National Zoo is one of Washington DCs premier free attractions and one of the oldest zoos in the United States. The zoo is owned by the Smithsonian Institution and offers completely free tickets. However, guests are required to make a reservation to enter the park. 

The National Zoo is known for its pandas but also has multiple other exhibits and attractions. The elephant trails are also popular. Open almost every day of the year and constantly full of visitors, the National Zoo is truly a zoo of America. 

8. Pretoria National Zoo 

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When you think of South Africa, you might not immediately think of a zoo. However, the National Zoological Garden in Pretoria, South Africa, is a place you don’t want to miss if you’re visiting the country! With over 200 acres, the zoo has all of the classic safari attractions and animals from other areas of the world. 

Pretoria National Zoo was founded in 1899 to save the endangered species in Africa due to big game hunting. In the years since its founding, the zoo has preserved several species from Africa and other continents. Tickets to Pretoria National Zoo cost under $8 per person. 

9. San Diego Zoo

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Perhaps the most famous zoo in America, the San Diego Zoo spans 100 acres in California, USA. The zoo focuses on animal preservation and has played a pivotal role in repopulating the giant panda population.

San Diego’s pandas are the most visited attraction in the park and have helped raise money for conservation.  Pandas are not the only exciting part of this zoo, though!

There are also rides, movies, concessions, and other attractions within the San Diego Zoo (not to mention the 650 species of animals besides pandas).  Tickets for the San Diego Zoo are $62 for adults and $52 for children. 

10. Schönbrunn Zoo

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If you are traveling to see wild animals and history, look no further than the Vienna Zoo (or Schönbrunn Zoo) in Austria. This zoo is the oldest continually operating zoo in the world, having opened in 1752.

It has a vast array of animals, ranging from chimpanzees to zebras.  Tickets for the Schönbrunn Zoo are $26 per person. It’s open year-round and has seasonal specials and many special events. 

11. Singapore Zoo

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The Wildlife Reserve of Singapore, also known as the Singapore Zoo, is home to one of the most outstanding varieties of rainforest animals outside the actual rainforest. It’s one of the world’s only “open-concept” zoos, so the animals are almost entirely in their natural habitat.

When visiting Singapore, the zoo is a must-see.  Tickets to the Singapore Zoo are $27.50 a person. This price includes admission to all of the exhibits in the zoo, including the rainforest exhibit and the children’s zoo. 

12. Taronga Zoo

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If you’re in Sydney, Australia, be sure to make a stop at the Taronga Zoo! It’s impossible to miss, sitting right on the harbor. Although it’s in a busy suburb of Sydney, Taronga makes room for over 5,000 animals from various nations and continents. The zoo’s seal show is a huge attraction for visitors. 

Taronga offers everything a zoo should, from elephants to lions to penguins. Whether you live in Australia or are just visiting, take a day to visit this lovely menagerie. Tickets to the Taronga zoo are $32 per person. 

13. Toronto Zoo

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Toronto Zoo is the largest zoo in Canada. It’s one of the only zoos globally with a Canadian exhibit featuring moose, elk, and other species native to Canada.

However, the zoo also has Indo-Malaya, Tundra Trek, Australasia, Africas, America, and Eurasia exhibits over its 710 acres.  General admission to the Toronto Zoo is $22 (or 29 Canadian dollars).

Parking is $12 per car. They offer plenty of live events and animal shows, so make sure you see what’s going on when you plan on attending! 

14. Wellington Zoo

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The Wellington Zoo, in Wellington, New Zealand, is over a hundred years old and has 500 different animals. This zoo was the first zoo in the country and flew in most animals from other countries. It is a conservation society and features several species native to New Zealand and Australia. 

The Wellington Zoo is small, but that doesn’t mean it’s not unique! Visitors will be able to see everything the zoo has to offer in a single day. An adult ticket is $19 ($27 New Zealand dollars), and a child’s ticket is $8.50 ($12 New Zealand dollars). 

15. Welsh Mountain Zoo

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The Welsh Mountain Zoo is a hidden gem in the mountains of North Wales. It’s one of the smallest zoos on this list and features the most miniature animals.

While there are no huge animals (elephants, giraffes, etc.) at the zoo, they have an extraordinarily healthy and well-cared-for population of chimps, exotic birds, and a tiger. 

Welsh Mountain Zoo costs $22 for children and $30 for adults. If you are in Wales or the United Kingdom in general, you won’t regret spending an afternoon at this lovely little zoo!

So, What Are the Best Zoos in the World?

When we’re traveling, we want to be able to see everything we can in a new area. If you’re in any of these major cities abroad, the zoo is a must-see! And while you’re here, also be sure to read our top picks for the best zoos in the US ; there’s some surprising picks on the list!

14 Best Zoos in the World 2023

The fourteen best zoos in the world chosen below are significant attractions in their cities and bucket list destinations for animal enthusiasts.

In addition, they’re world-renowned for their contributions to saving flora and fauna worldwide.

Spectacular layouts strive to recreate an animal’s natural habit while providing guests with a safe, sometimes interactive, and exciting viewing experience.

When your travels take you to these parts of the globe, add these outstanding zoos to your itinerary. See all 14 of them and not only the number 1 zoo in the world, as each is fantastic for its reasons.

Table of Contents

Top 14 Best Zoos in The Word

1. san diego zoo.

San Diego Zoo, located in the heart of the city, is famous for its conservation initiatives and stunning design, including some cageless enclosures.

In cooperation with China, the Zoo was instrumental in figuring out how to breed giant pandas in captivity, a conservation program that is one of their most famous.

The list of other projects in progress is too long to list but benefits species and organizations worldwide.

Exotic, native, rare, and endangered plants from its accredited botanical garden liven up the 100 acres and provide shade for animals and human guests from year-round sunshine.

Popular exhibits include the largest colony of koalas outside of Australia, polar bears (yes, they live in the sunshine, too), elephants, Galapagos tortoises, and many more amazing animals.

Tips: San Diego is home to other major theme parks, including the Zoo’s sister park, San Diego Zoo Safari Park.

Most visitors see both in addition to LEGOLAND California or SeaWorld. This means you have many ways to save on San Diego Zoo tickets , through combo tickets and sightseeing passes.

2. Singapore Zoo

Wildlife Reserves Singapore showcases the region’s biodiversity, animals from around the world, and the importance of conservation across their four parks.

Singapore Zoo is the most popular, and its open-concept format makes it one of the unique best zoos in the world. It’s set in a rainforest environment with exhibits designed to mimic an animal’s natural habitat and allow some animals to roam relatively free. You might spy an orangutan swinging above you as you go about your day.

Highlights include the rare white tigers and orangutans. You’ll see larger animals, too, like elephants, lions, hippos, and giraffes.

Speaking of giraffes, check the schedule for feeding times and head over to the platform to feed them a snack. You can also walk through the Australian Outback exhibit, where eastern grey kangaroos and agile wallabies hop around you.

Tip : It’s worth booking Jungle Breakfast with Wildlife. Not only will you have a snack international breakfast fare, but the orangutans will come down from the trees to join guests for photos. And you can save with multi-park tickets purchased through Wildlife Singapore Reserves.

3. Vienna Zoo

Did you know that the world’s oldest continuously operating zoo is located in Vienna ?

The Tiergarten Schonbrunn (otherwise known as the Vienna Zoo) started as an animal menagerie in 1792 at the famous Schönbrunn Palace.

Yes, it’s one of the best zoos in the world and set in a spectacular UNESCO World Heritage Site.

You’ll find most major zoo animals here, like various exotic cats such as Siberian tigers, giraffes, and polar bears. The star attractions are undoubtedly pandas.

Yang, a mother panda, became an international sensation for rearing two twin cubs without human intervention in a zoo setting. And the Zoo’s conservation efforts include successfully breeding pandas and other endangered animals like the batagur turtle.

Don’t miss Tirolerhof, an authentic farmhouse from the Tyrolean region of Austria transported to Vienna. It’s at the far end of the Zoo, but children love its farm animals like sheep, cows, and goats here. Some are rare breeds.

There’s also a restaurant and organic food shop, so plan this stop around mealtime.

Tip: You can bundle tickets to the Tiergarten Schonbrunn with other Vienna attractions on the highly-rated Vienna Pass to save money.

4. London Zoo

London Zoo in Regent’s Park is also one of the best zoos in the world, but it is considered the first scientific zoo, a facility for scientists to study animals.

It opened to the public in 1828, and its other firsts include the first aquarium, the first children’s zoo, the first insect house, and the first reptile house. Speaking of the Reptile House, it was featured in the scene where python said to Harry in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone .

The Zoo participates in breeding programs for over 130 species on the conservation front. Animals and works with governments worldwide to help stop the illegal wildlife trade.

Its location on the northern end of Regent’s Park is quite beautiful. Regent’s Canal splits it, and fun to walk over bridges from one side of the zoo to the other as canal boats pass below.

The Zoo is home to elephants, the Sobell Pavilion for apes and monkeys, Penguin Beach, and many more animals to see — over 750 species.

Tip : There are quite a few ways to save money on visiting the London Zoo. You can try one famous sightseeing passes, like London Pass or London Explorer Pass, that helps save money in London . The popular hop-on, hop-off sightseeing buses also stop here.

5. Melbourne Zoo

One of the best zoos in the world and the oldest in the country is Australia’s zoo. It started as a place for domestic animals to acclimatize after long journeys to Australia. It was modeled after the London Zoo.

Eventually, exotic animals were added. The Zoo is organized into bioclimatic zones designed and landscaped to cater to the needs of each region’s animals.

Of course, native animals like kangaroos, wombats, emus, and koalas are highlights.

You can even learn more about them on a unique Australian Wildlife Tour that starts before the Zoo opens to the public (and even feed kangaroos some breakfast).

Part of the Zoo’s conservation efforts involves a master plan to save 27 local species, like the Mountain Pygmy-possum and Tasmanian Devil, from going extinct over the next decade.

Trail of the Elephant provides an opportunity to see Asian elephants up-close as they wander freely through their exhibit. You can take free guided tours of the trail given by Zoo volunteers and see otters, Sumatran Tigers, and the other residents of Asian villages.

Tip : Kids under the age of 16 visits Melbourne Zoo for free on the weekends and holidays.

6.  Bronx Zoo, New York City, USA

When you think of the best zoos in New York, there’s little doubt that one name comes to mind: The Bronx Zoo. Located within Bronx Park on 265 acres with a river running through it and housing over 6500 animals from more than 700 species (and still growing!), this famous zoo has been around since 1899!

You can explore all corners without getting too far away because their exhibits allow visitors up-close encounters like no other place I know – make sure not to get lost while exploring these gorgeous grounds…

7.  Loro Parque, Spain

Loro Parque is your destination if you are looking for an up-close and personal experience with some of the most colorful animals in all creation. They have everything from monkeys to bears; not only will they teach visitors about evolution but also give tours so that people can see these magnificent creatures firsthand!

Custom lapel pins are the perfect souvenir of your visit to the zoo and make a great gift for animal lovers. Wear it on a jacket, backpack, hat or lanyard. It makes an excellent gift for badge collectors and is a testament to the beauty of nature and the art that brings it to life.

8.  Beijing Zoo

The Beijing Zoo is a great place to go if you’re looking for family time and entertainment. The pandas always draw crowds, but there’s so much more than just them! You’ll find almost 1000 different species in this large zoo – including many animals that can’t be seen anywhere else on Earth, like giant pandas or elephants (although they’re not exactly common). And tickets cost only $15/person, which means an affordable adventure without sacrificing your budget too severely either way 🙂

9.  Berlin Zoo

The Berlin Zoo is an incredible place with a war-torn history that dates back to the 19th century. The zoo covers just under 90 acres and features many different animals, including polar bears! It’s also accessible by public transportation to get there quickly, whether on foot or via bus/tram stop near your hotel.

Tickets cost about $19 for adults while children aged 16 & under always enter free – make sure not to wait until after 5 pm when an entry gets much more expensive because they close off some areas.

10. Chester Zoo (UK)

Chester Zoo in the United Kingdom is one of the country’s most popular wildlife attractions and is renowned for its conservation efforts, expansive enclosures, and diverse range of species.

It was founded by George Mottershead and opened in 1931. Mottershead was inspired to open a zoo without bars after visiting a zoo in Manchester and witnessing the conditions animals were kept in. It spans about 125 acres and is home to over 35,000 animals, representing more than 500 species.

One of the most significant developments in recent years is the “Islands” project. It’s an ambitious expansion aimed at recreating the environments of six Southeast Asian islands.

They operate numerous conservation projects both in the UK and worldwide, from protecting orangutans in Borneo to safeguarding the native wildlife in their local area.

The zoo has multiple play areas for children, gardens for visitors to explore, and a range of eateries and shops. The gardens are a significant feature, with plants from around the world.

11. Taronga Zoo (Australia)

Taronga Zoo in Sydney, Australia, is a standout destination for numerous reasons. Perched on the shores of Sydney Harbour, the zoo offers unparalleled views of the Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and the city skyline.

Their “Zoo Adventures” programs are tailored for school groups, while various daily talks and shows enlighten visitors about animals, their habitats, and conservation needs.

The zoo is dedicated to sustainability. They’ve undertaken initiatives to reduce waste, conserve water, and educate visitors about sustainable practices. They aim to inspire visitors to make more environmentally friendly choices in their own lives.

Taronga Zoo offers restaurants and cafes with various food options, a cable car for an aerial view of the zoo, and picnic spots where families can relax.

12. Toronto Zoo (Canada)

Toronto Zoo is nestled in the vast urban expanse of Canada’s most populous city. It’s not just its impressive size that draws attention but the intricate tapestry of experiences awaiting its boundaries.

As you wander through the sprawling grounds, you’re taken on a global journey that encapsulates Africa’s heart, the Americas’ forests, and the mysterious realms of Asia. Every corner of the zoo offers a window into the habitats and ecosystems of our planet.

Integral to the zoo’s mission is its dedication to learning. Interactive exhibits, guided tours, and engaging programs provide rich learning experiences.

A visit to the Toronto Zoo is a holistic journey that educates, inspires, and fosters a profound appreciation for the intricate web of life that binds us all.

13. Zoo de la Palmyre (France)

Zoo de la Palmyre emerges like a gem amidst the rugged beauty of the landscape where the gentle hum of the coastal breeze mingles with the distant calls of exotic creatures, creating an anticipatory melody for its experiences.

It brings together the rich tapestries of wildlife from the dense jungles of South America to the vast savannahs of Africa. Every path taken within the zoo invites the visitor into a narrative, where the animals are not just exhibits but ambassadors of their native habitats.

Enclosures are more than just spaces for viewing; they are realms crafted with care and insight, allowing animals to exhibit their natural behaviors and providing visitors with a glimpse into the wild heart of our planet.

The zoo is a beacon for education and conservation. Through interactive displays, guided tours, and expert talks, it strives to ignite a sense of wonder and responsibility in its visitors.

14. Henry Doorly Zoo (USA)

Situated away in Omaha, Nebraska, the Henry Doorly Zoo is a sprawling sanctuary where the wonders of the natural world converge.

The Desert Dome, for instance, stands as a testament to this ambition. Beneath this architectural marvel, one doesn’t merely observe a collection of desert flora and fauna, but rather feels transported into the arid landscapes of the world’s deserts.

The magic of the nocturnal world comes alive in the Kingdoms of the Night exhibit. Here, the mysteries of caves and swamps are unveiled, showcasing a world where the absence of light fosters unique adaptations and intricate ecosystems.

The onsite scientists and conservationists tirelessly work towards unraveling the mysteries of the animal kingdom and developing strategies to safeguard it for future generations.

Wrap Up for the World’s Best Zoos

Hopefully you found this list of the world’s best zoos helpful and entertaining. Now, don’t just head straight to your favorite one – take some extra time out for all these incredible destinations!

Have you been to other Zoo’s? What is -according to you- the best Zoos in the world?

If you find this list of the  best zoos in the world helpful, consider checking out some of our archives below —

• Best Aerial Photography Drones
• What Are the 10 Best Mountaineering Basics For Beginners?
• Top 8 Countries with Best Coffee Culture
• Planning A Hiking Trip: A Great Guide
• 7 Most Expensive Shopping Streets In The World

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• Travel Guide

30+ Best Zoos in the World Right Now

Published: August 18, 2022

Modified: December 27, 2023

• Plan Your Trip
• Travel Tips

Did you know that there are over 10,000 zoos in the world? From aquariums to safaris and bird parks, there are so many zoos for you to explore. But which is the best zoo in the world right now? Though we have a list of best zoos in America , there are several zoological parks around the world that you just cannot miss.  

We’ve narrowed down your options to 30 of the best on this list. Continue reading to find out about the top-ranking zoos this year.

Best Zoos to Visit in 2022

Here is the breakdown of the best zoos in the world right now : 

1. San Diego Zoo

Photo by Charles Koh on Unsplash

Address: 2920 Zoo Dr, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

Hours: 9 AM to 9 PM (Late Summer & Early Fall); 9 AM to 5 PM (Late Fall & Winter)

Sunny California’s San Diego Zoo reigns supreme in our zoo rankings this year. It’s currently the number one zoo in the US, and many people would agree that it is the best zoo in the world right now. 

But why is the San Diego Zoo so famous ? As one of the largest zoos in America , it has a sprawling 100-acre land that houses a great selection of flora and fauna (3,500 specimens to be exact!). Have tons of fun exploring the lush greenery of its natural-looking tropical terrain. And on top of everything, the zoo also supports wildlife conservation efforts and has breeding programs for endangered species ! No wonder it’s the top zoo based on annual attendance !

Do take note that San Diego Zoo should not be mistaken for San Diego Safari Park . Both are idyllic destinations for a wildlife adventure, but the latter is situated further away from downtown San Diego. Regardless, a visit to either one is surely among the best things to do in San Diego ! 

Top attraction to catch: Take guided bus tours or interactive programs hosted by zoo experts and check out Conrad Prebys Polar Bear Plunge , the park’s polar bear exhibit. 

2. Singapore Zoo

Photo by Mandai Wildlife Reserve on Facebook

Address: 80 Mandai Lake Rd, Singapore 729826

Hours: Daily, 8:30 AM to 6 PM

Singapore Zoo takes the second spot on our list of top zoos in the world . Taking a trip to this 64-acre rainforest park is one of the best things to do in Singapore because you’ll get to see 300 species of animals here. Singapore Zoo has everything from the ferocious cats of the Wild Africa exhibit to the chameleons of the RepTopia exhibit. Though small, the Singapore Zoo also has a Night Safari, the world’s first nocturnal wildlife park. And in 2021, the Singapore Zoo (River Safari) also welcomed its very first baby panda cub, Lele, and snaking queues to see the adorable cub has been growing ever since.   

Top attractions to catch: Explore the zoo’s Wild Africa, Fragile Forest, RepTopia, River Safari, and Splash Safari exhibits .  

3. Bronx Zoo

Photo by the Bronx Zoo on Facebook

Address: 2300 Southern Blvd, The Bronx, NY 10460, United States

Hours: Opens at 10 AM, closing time varies

The East Coast is home to one of the top-rated zoos in America : the Bronx Zoo. This park also happens to be one of the largest zoos in the US because it spans 256 acres of land, housing nearly 10,000 animals. Take young ones to see a kaleidoscope of butterflies at their seasonal Butterfly Garden, or have them interact with gentle creatures at the best children’s zoo in the world . From feeding penguins and sea lions to riding the zoo’s Treetop Adventure zipline, there are plenty of activities to do at the best zoo in New York.   

Top attractions to catch: Kids will enjoy the park’s Children’s Zoo, and visitors of all ages can check out the zoo’s Congo Gorilla Forest, Wild Asia Monorail, Butterfly Garden, Jungleworld, and Tiger Mountain exhibits.

4. Berlin Zoo

Photo by Raimon Beuker on Pixabay

Address: Hardenbergpl. 8, 10787 Berlin, Germany

Hours: Opens at 9 AM, closing time varies

Germany is the country with the most zoological parks , and it’s home to Berlin Zoo , the best zoo in Europe right now. Also known as Zoologischer Garten Berlin in the German native tongue, this 400-acre park is able to accommodate 18,600 animals without sacrificing the creatures’ quality of life. As a matter of fact, it’s one of the best zoos in the world for the conservation of giant pandas, polar bears , and other vulnerable wildlife. 

Top attractions to catch: Check out the zoo’s Empire of Cats, Panda Garden, and The Romantic Heart of the Zoo exhibits . 

5. Schonbrunn Zoo

Photo by Franzpix on Pixabay

Address: Maxingstraße 13b, 1130 Wien, Austria

The Vienna Zoo at the Schonbrunn Palace is a landmark in Austria that has stood the test of time. First opening its doors to the public in 1752, Schonbrunn Zoo is the oldest zoo in the world . It’s a good zoo to visit for a historic encounter with up to 700 species of elegant animals in action. You can also join themed tours or witness the zoo’s operations from behind the scenes with special tickets.  

Top attractions to catch: Stroll along the zoo to witness giant pandas, penguins, monkeys, and other animals, or customize a special tour for a group of people. 

6. Beijing Zoo

Hat Trick on Unsplash

Address: 137 Xizhimen Outer St, DongWuYuan, Xicheng Qu, Beijing Shi, China, 100037

Hours: 7:30 AM to 6 PM (April to October); 7:30 AM to 5 PM (November to March)

Visiting this world-famous zoo is one of the best things to do in Beijing, China . Much like the rest of the parks on this list, Beijing Zoo is home to thousands of animals that belong to different species. However, its collection of endemic animals is truly the zoo’s claim to fame. Giant pandas, red pandas, and endangered golden snub-nosed monkeys from the region of China and the Himalayas are some of the most enthralling attractions there. 

Top attractions to catch: See the world-famous Panda Hall, a Chinese garden-inspired exhibit that houses giant pandas. 

7. Henry Doorly Zoo

Photo by Jeffrey Hamilton on Unsplash

Address: 3701 S 10th St, Omaha, NE 68107, United States

Hours: 9 AM to 5 PM (April to October); 10 AM to 4 PM (November to March)

While Henry Doorly Zoo is not the biggest or largest zoo in the world , a visit to this popular Omaha zoo guarantees encounters with up to 17,000 animals. Also a frontrunner in wildlife conservation efforts, this park is a good destination to consider if you’re on the prowl for the best zoo in the world for animal welfare .

Top attractions to catch: Ride the Skyfari chairlift over the zoo’s vegetation and check out the zoo’s exhibits on polar, desert, and marine wildlife.

8. Loro Parque

Photo by Marcel Von Au on Unsplash

Address: Av. Loro Parque, s/n, 38400 Puerto de la Cruz, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain

Hours: Daily, 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM

Also widely recognized as one of the best zoo enclosures in the world , Loro Parque has been a beloved destination for animal lovers in Europe since 1972. Although it was originally built as a sanctuary for parrots, it has since been developed to accommodate gorillas and other mammals, as well as marine animals like dolphins! So spend a weekend in Tenerife during the best time to visit Spain and experience the best that this Canary Island gem has to offer. 

Top attractions to catch: Besides exploring the parrot museum and live show, the zoo’s marine exhibits on orcas, sea lions, and dolphins are also popular. 

9. National Zoological Gardens of South Africa

Photo from National Zoological Garden, Pretoria’s official website

Address: 232 Boom St, Daspoort 319-Jr, Pretoria, 0001, South Africa

Hours: Daily, 9 AM to 5:30 PM

With a total area of 200 acres, South Africa’s National Zoological Park is also among the biggest zoos in the world. The other name for it is Pretoria Zoo, pertaining to the place where the park is located. What’s unique about this park is that you can visit the zoo at night to see nocturnal animals in their prime state by joining the Sunset Safari tour. Furthermore, you can even pitch tents and spend the night there at the Zoo Camp! So p ack your bags and ready guide to visiting South Africa .

Top attractions to catch: Tour the park in the morning to see African penguins and Savannah elephants, or join the Sunset Safari for a memorable night at the zoo.

10. Taronga Zoo

Photo by Enrico Carcasci on Unsplash

Address: Bradleys Head Rd, Mosman NSW 2088, Australia

Hours: 9 AM to 4:30 PM (June 1 to August 31); 9:30 AM to 5 PM (September 1 to May 31)

We can’t decide on the best zoo in the world without taking into consideration an entry from Down Under! Australia is, after all, home to hundreds of animals that cannot be found anywhere else in the world. And in recent years, Taronga Zoo in New South Wales has been the continent’s top contender. Get a chance to witness exotic animals like the endangered Southern Corroboree Frog up-close and personal with a visit to this zoo. 

Top attractions to catch: Get up close to koalas, kangaroos, and other animals endemic to Australia, or enjoy the scenic view of the zoo from the zoo’s Skyfari cable cars. 

11. Chester Zoo

Photo by Garethdoc on Pixabay

Address: Moston Rd, Upton, Chester CH2 1EU, United Kingdom

Hours: Opens at 10 AM, closing time varies 

The best zoo from across the pond is Chester Zoo, located in England’s Cheshire county. With a whopping 35,000 specimen count, a day spent at this park will surely be eventful. Rhinos and elephants are the stars of Chester Zoo, but you can also have fun checking out the zoo’s collection of exotic animals like golden-headed lion tamarins endemic to Brazil!  

Top attractions to catch: Marvel at the zoo’s butterfly exhibit and check out exhibits showcasing endangered animals like Asian elephants, Asiatic lions, and Rothschild’s giraffes.

12. London Zoo

Photo by Claire_J_ on Pixabay

Address: Outer Cir, London NW1 4RY, United Kingdom

Hours: 10 AM to 4 PM (November 1 to February 11); 10 AM to 5 PM (February 12 to March 26); 10 AM to 6 PM (March 27 to September 4)

There’s another zoo that you cannot miss during a trip to the UK: the London Zoo. As indicated in its name, this park is conveniently located in London, arguably the best city to visit in England . While you’re there, don’t forget to check out the zoo’s spectacular collection of Asiatic lions, lemurs, gorillas, and squirrel monkeys. 

Best attractions to catch: Join the zoo’s penguin and gorilla feeding events or have an intimate experience with monkeys, meerkats, and penguins up close! 

13. Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

Photo by Columbus Zoo and Aquarium on Facebook

Address: 4850 W Powell Rd, Powell, OH 43065, United States

Hours: 10 AM to 5 PM (October to December, & March), 10 AM to 4 PM (January & February); 9 AM to 5 PM (April, May, & September); 9 AM to 6 PM (July & August)

You don’t have to leave the country if you want to have the best zoo experience. For starters, we have Ohio’s Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, another great destination for wildlife encounters on the East Coast. It hosts approximately 11,000 animals from all over the world, from the giraffes of Africa to the Tasmanian devils of Australia. All things considered, there are plenty of exhibits to look forward to in this park! 

Best attractions to catch: See the zoo’s exhibits on bears, Tasmanian devils, and manatees.

14. Edinburgh Zoo 

Photo by Edinburgh Zoo on Facebook

Address: Royal Zoological Society of Scotland, 134 Corstorphine Rd, Corstorphine, Edinburgh EH12 6TS, United Kingdom

Hours: 10 AM to 6 PM (April to September); 10 AM to 5 PM (October & March); 10 AM to 4 PM (November to February)

Dropping by Edinburgh Zoo is one of the best things you can do in Edinburgh, Scotland . Because even though it’s rather small compared to the other top-ranking places on this list, it’s the best zoo in the world to visit if you want to see giant pandas and koalas in the United Kingdom. In addition, Edinburgh Zoo’s Sumatran tiger and gentoo penguins are also crowd favorites. 

Best attractions to catch: Get to see the zoo’s famous Sumatran tiger, gentoo penguins, as well as UK’s only giant pandas and koalas. 

15. Brookfield Zoo  

Photo by Chris Buchanan on Unsplash

Address: 8400 W 31st St, Brookfield, IL 60513, United States

Hours: Daily, 9:30 AM to 6 PM

Hop on Chicago’s public transportation system and get off at our next pick for the best zoo in the world : Brookfield Zoo , also known as Chicago Zoological Park. Even though it’s most famous for its big cat exhibit where visitors can spot African lions and tigers roaming about, you’ll also enjoy mingling with the prettiest animals that don’t pose much danger – such as reindeer, llamas, and alpacas. 

Top attractions to catch: Observe ferocious cats from a safe distance or try your hand at petting or feeding gentler animals like alpacas, llamas, and goats.

16. Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden

Photo by Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden on Facebook

Address: 3400 Vine St, Cincinnati, OH 45220, United States

Hours: 10 AM to 5 PM (January 10 to November 17); 10 AM to 9 PM (November 18 to January 8)  

Apart from its thriving horticulture, Cincinnati Zoo is known for being home to several notable animals. First, this was where the last known passenger pigeon named Martha, as well as the last known living Carolina parakeet, Incas, were kept until their last days. But the most well-known of all of their animals has got to be Fiona the Hippo, prematurely born in 2017 and nursed to good health by the zookeepers themselves. On the whole, we recommend adding this zoo to your list of top things to do in Cincinnati .

Top attractions to catch: Besides visiting Fiona the world-famous hippo, you can also take part in the zoo’s monthly events and see animals ranging from gentle manatees to fierce Mexican wolves.

17. Central Park Zoo

Photo by Central Park Zoo on Facebook

Address: East 64th Street, New York, NY 10021, United States

New York’s Central Park Zoo is undoubtedly one of the best zoos in the world right now. With a modest area of 6.5 acres, hopping around different enclosures of this park is a breeze. The zoo offers a good selection of animals from around the globe despite its small area too, ranging from wild snow leopards to domesticated sheep. The best part? The whole park is conveniently located at the heart of The Big Apple. Just know the best time to visit Manhattan and plan your trip around it!    

Top attractions to catch: See animals from around the world, such as sea lions, snow leopards, and the zoo’s collection of tropical birds. 

18. St. Louis Zoo

Photo by Nonadski on Pixabay

Address: One Government Drive, St. Louis, MO 63110

There are several top-rated zoos in North America and Missouri’s St. Louis Zoo is one of them. Despite a small area, it currently homes around 14,000 animals whilst ensuring good quality of life. Catch sight of penguins, puffins, hippos, and even black rhinos while you’re there. 

Top attractions to catch: Visit the Children’s Zoo or check out animals from around the world like hippos, black rhinos, and penguins. 

19. Houston Zoo 

Photo by Houston Zoo on Facebook

Address: 6200 Hermann Park Dr, Houston, TX 77030, United States

Hours: Daily, 9 AM to 5 PM

Like most places on this list of the best zoos in the world, Houston Zoo provides its animals with zoo enclosures that mimic their natural habitats. Although it only has 55 acres of land, it’s home to over 6000 animals – including lions, tigers, bears, and elephants. If you’re lucky, you can even spot a few endangered species in the area, like gibbons and other primates. Heading down to Houston Zoo might just be one of the best things to do in Houston, Texas  as a family.

Top attractions to catch: Join zoo activities like the Cheetah Walk, an early morning trek at the zoo headed by keepers, and the zoo’s Animal Ambassador cheetah.

20. San Antonio Zoo

Photo by San Antonio Zoo on Facebook

Address: 3903 N St Mary’s St, San Antonio, TX 78212, United States 

Hours : Opens at 9 AM, closing time varies

Another place in Texas that deserves a spot on this list is San Antonio Zoo . What once started as a small collection of exotic animals has exponentially grown over the years, now accommodating around 3,500 animals in a relatively small 50-acre lot. That said, San Antonio Zoo is the best zoo to visit in the US if you’re a bird lover because it has one of the most sizeable aviary exhibits in the world! 

Top attractions to catch: See the zoo’s popular spectacled bear, clouded leopard, gibbons, and collection of birds. 

21. Lincoln Park Zoo

Photo by Sebastian Kurpiel on Unsplash

Address: 2001 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614, United States 

Hours: Monday to Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM; Weekends & Holidays, 8 AM to 7 PM

True to the words “For Wildlife. For All.,” Chicago’s Lincoln Park Zoo is free for anyone who wants to visit the park. Get to see African lions, African penguins, and plenty of other majestic animals from around the globe without spending a dime. It’s also home to endangered animals like black rhinos and Jamaican iguanas. And if you’re looking for a place to stay around the zoo? This Airbnb Chicago rental might just be what you’re looking for.

Top attractions to catch: Explore the zoo’s flourishing garden and its collection of black rhinos, Jamaican iguanas, and other endangered animals. 

22. Dallas Zoo

Photo by Dallas Zoo on Facebook

Address: 650 S R L Thornton Fwy, Dallas, TX 75203, United States 

Apart from visiting impressive parks and the best lakes in Texas , Dallas Zoo is one of the many places you should explore in the state. The sprawling 106-acre land is able to house around 2000 animals, including a splendid display of reptiles and amphibians. Keep an eye out for their famous giant tortoises which have been rescued and rehabilitated right here in Dallas Zoo.

Top attractions to catch: Check out the zoo’s impressive reptile and amphibian collection, on top of visiting other famous exhibits. 

23. Melbourne Zoo

Photo by Zoos Victoria on Facebook

Address: Elliott Ave, Parkville VIC 3052, Australia

Melbourne is one of the best cities to visit in Australia . Not only is it the cultural capital of the country, but it is also where you’ll find Australia’s second-best zoo . Immerse yourself in the concepts of wildlife conservation with the help of Melbourne Zoo’s guides. This, alone, is enough to make Melbourne Zoo one of the best zoos in Australia . The bonus part is that you’ll also get to see here some of the zoo’s most notable animals, like Dokkoon the Asiatic elephant, or Hutan the Sumatran tiger.      

Top attractions to catch: Book a ticket for the zoo’s Australian Wildlife Experience, an early morning tour where you can meet koalas, kangaroos, and other Australian wildlife. 

24. Philadelphia Zoo

Photo by Praswin Prakashan on Unsplash

Address: 3400 W Girard Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States

Hours: Daily, 9:30 AM to 5 PM; 9:30 AM to 3 PM (November 1 to January 8)

The first true zoo in the US, the Philadelphia Zoo has been opening its doors to tourists since 1874. Currently, it houses around 1,700 animals, including lemurs, bears, African lions, and Amur tigers like the zoo’s beloved Koosaka. And if your kids are up for an adventure, join their scavenger hunt tour and let them interact with many of the animals while learning about their habitats. 

Top attractions to catch: Participate in the zoo’s Nature Blazer Scavenger Hunt where you’ll get to complete challenges while exploring different areas of the park.

25. Woodland Park Zoo

Photo by Woodland Park Zoo on Facebook

Address: 5500 Phinney Ave N, Seattle, WA 98103, United States

Hours: 9:30 AM to 6 PM (May 1 to September 5); 9:30 AM to 4 PM (September 6 to April 30)

Add visiting Woodland Park Zoo to your list of things to do in Seattle . This 92-acre zoo offers feeding experiences where you can interact directly with the animals. Help zookeepers feed the giraffes or simply watch penguins feed and dive from afar. Besides that, there is plenty of other wildlife to explore in the area – from the raccoons of the Ambassador Animals exhibit to the Komodo dragon of the Trail of Adaptations exhibit. 

Top attractions to catch: Get up close to giraffes and other animals by participating in the zoo’s feeding experiences. 

26. Miami Zoo

Photo by 12019 on Pixabay

Address: 12400 SW 152nd St, Miami, FL 33177, United States 

Hours: Daily, 10 AM to 5 PM; 10 AM to 3 PM (Thanksgiving Day); 12 PM to 5 PM (Christmas Day); 10 AM to 5 PM (New Year’s Day)

Visiting the Miami zoo is also a worthwhile activity. The whole zoological park occupies an impressive 750-acre lot and it caters to 3,000 animals, including the usual crowd favorites: lions, giraffes, tigers, gorillas, snakes, and elephants. 

Top attractions to catch: Join interactive tours and animal feedings hosted by the zoo or simply visit popular zoo animals like lions, giraffes, and tigers. 

27. Los Angeles Zoo

Photo by Oxana Melis on Unsplash

Address: 5333 Zoo Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90027, United States

Hours: Daily, 10 AM to 5 PM 

Out on the West Coast, one of the best things to do in Los Angeles is to visit Los Angeles Zoo. This 133-acre park is home to around 2200 animals and thousands more individual plants. It’s also where the famous Reggie the Aligator is being taken care of. Drop by if you want to see the viral gator, or if you simply want to see all kinds of animals ranging from flamingos to chimpanzees. 

Top attractions to catch: Visit Reggie the Alligator and spend a day with all kinds of animals, ranging from flamingos to chimpanzees. 

28. Wellington Zoo

Photo by Igor Kazantsev on Unsplash

Address: 200 Daniell Street, Newtown, Wellington 6021, New Zealand

Hours: Daily, 9:30 AM to 5 PM

If you love the outdoors as much as the next person, then a trip to New Zealand might be in order. Wellington, the country’s capital, is also home to one of the best zoos in the world right now. Get to see capybaras, red pandas, meerkats, and plenty of other animals while taking in the pleasantly windy days in New Zealand. This is high on our list of the best things to do in Wellington ! 

Top attractions to catch: Book a ticket to the park’s Zoo Sleepovers with friends or family to witness the nighttime activities of different animals in the area. 

29. Smithsonian National Zoo

Photo by Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute on Facebook

Address: 3001 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20008, United States

Hours: Daily, 8 AM to 6 PM

Of the  2000 animals in all of the 163 acres of land, the pair of giant pandas are among the most sought-after in the Smithsonian National Zoo. After all, the zoo has been continuously contributing to the conservation efforts of increasing the giant panda population in the world. Explore this Washington DC destination and get to see the beautiful giant panda family headed by the 24-year-old female named Mei Xiang, and Tian Tian (a male panda of the same age). Other animals in this zoo that might also tug your heart strings include naked mole rats and baby lion cubs. 

Top attractions to catch: Don’t miss the zoo’s giant panda exhibit, or check out animals like naked mole rats, elephants, and lions. 

30. Moscow Zoo

Photo by Tasos_Lekkas on Pixabay

Address: Bolshaya Gruzinskaya St, 1, Moscow, Russia, 123242

Hours: Daily, 10 AM to 7 PM

One of the best zoos in the world is located in Russia. For a park with a relatively small area of around 53 acres, Moscow Zoo is the largest zoo in the world by species because it accommodates over 8,000 animals that belong to over 1,000 species. So if spotting as many animals as possible is your objective, this is the best zoo in the world to visit. 

Top attractions to catch: Watch Siberian tigers roam proudly in their enclosures, and other animals like small pandas, giraffes, elephants, and yaks around the zoo.

Special Mentions

Fort worth zoo .

Address: 1989 Colonial Pkwy, Fort Worth, TX 76110, United States

Hours: Monday to Friday, 9 AM to 4 PM (Summer); Saturday & Sunday, 9 AM to 5 PM (Summer)

Top attractions to catch: Check out the zoo’s extensive exhibit on gorillas and other primates. 

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo

Address: 4250 Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Rd, Colorado Springs, CO 80906, United States

Top attractions to catch: You can’t miss the zoo’s Rocky Mountain Wild exhibit that showcases Colorado’s native wildlife. 

North Carolina Zoo

Address: 4401 Zoo Pkwy, Asheboro, NC 27205, United States

Hours: 9 AM to 5 PM (April to October); 9 AM to 4 PM (November to March)

Top attractions to catch: Witness animals from around the world at the biggest zoo in the US and world’s largest zoo . 

Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Address: 2901 Osceola Pkwy, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830, United States

Hours: Daily, 8 AM to 8 PM

Top attractions to catch: Ride the famous Kilimanjaro Safaris which is a guided tour of the theme park’s African safari exhibit. 

Monterey Bay Aquarium

Address: 886 Cannery Row, Monterey, CA 93940, USA

Hours: Daily, 10 AM to 6 PM

Top attractions to catch: One of the best maritime zoos in the world , Monterey Bay Aquarium lets you bask in the glorious display of sea turtles, fishes, and other marine wildlife at Open Sea, the aquarium’s largest exhibit. 

Take a Trip to the Best Zoo in the World

There’s no denying that zoological parks in the US are world-class. The fact that several local parks made it on this list is a testament to that. There’s no need to travel far if you’re hunting for the best zoo in the world , but you’re also free to explore zoos in Singapore and other foreign countries. Why not check out the best aquariums in the world while you’re at it? 

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The best zoos in the world to visit in 2022

A trip to the zoo is one of the most exciting outings you can have. Whether your visit is part of a great family vacation, a solo trip, or a romantic getaway, you can be sure to be impressed by animals you may have never seen before!

Zoos can provide a fantastic educational experience for children, so what could be better than visiting the best zoos in the world?

However, not all zoos are ethical – so it is important to support zoos with good track records regarding conservation. Animals kept in captivity with poor regulation and even abuse are not what you want to see or support. This is why we take all of this into account when compiling our list of the best zoos in the world.

With this in mind, there are several zoos leading the way in conservation efforts, and many of the best zoos in the world still provide incredible opportunities to explore the wonders of the animal kingdom.

Here are the best zoos in the world in 2022:

Beijing zoo, china, berlin zoological garden, germany, bronx zoo, usa, ueno zoo, japan, singapore zoo, singapore, chester zoo, england, san diego zoo, usa, toronto zoo, canada, korkeasaari zoo, finland, henry doorly zoo, usa, auckland zoo, new zealand, melbourne zoo, australia, tiergarten schönbrunn, vienna, austria, north carolina zoo, usa.

Best known for its collection of rare animals native to China, the most popular attraction at Beijing Zoo is the Giant Pandas. Occupying 219 acres (89 ha) and home to 14,500 animals, this is the largest zoo in China.

Visit the Beijing Zoo at China, Beijing, Xicheng District, 西直门外大街137号 邮政编码: 100044

READ MORE: Beijing is one of the largest cities in the world , do you which are the other ones?

Opened in 1844, this is the oldest and most famous zoo in Germany. Covering 84 acres (35 ha), Berlin Zoological Garden boasts over 1,500 different species and around 17,000 animals. With the largest collection of species in the world, you’ll find one of the largest zoos here in Berlin.

The zoo runs a successful breeding programme for endangered species, but you may also know this zoo for its famous polar bear Knut.

Visit the Berlin Zoological Garden at Hardenbergpl. 8, 10787 Berlin, Germany

READ MORE: Find out why Berlin is one of the best places to travel alone

As the biggest metropolitan zoo in the United States, Bronx Zoo in New York City is definitely one to see. Covering 265 acres (107 ha) of park lands and naturalistic habitats, this is certainly one of the biggest zoos in the world.

Home to more than 4,000 animals of 650 species, Bronx Zoo is committed to protecting and breeding endangered species.

Visit the Bronx Zoo at 2300 Southern Blvd, Bronx, NY 10460, United States

READ MORE: Can you guess what tourist attraction in New York is one of the most visited in the world ?

In 1882, Ueno Zoo was the first zoo to open in Japan, and it still boasts the highest number of guests among all zoos in the country. If you’re in Tokyo, be sure to visit this zoo spanning 35 acres (14.2 ha).

With 3,000 animals from about 400 species to see, visit the most endangered mammals in the world!

Visit the Ueno Zoo at 9-83 Uenokoen, Taito City, Tokyo 110-8711, Japan

READ MORE: Discover when is the best time to visit Japan

This incredible zoo spans 69 acres (28 ha) and is 100% cage-free. Using a series of moats and glass instead, this environment is better both for visitors and for the animals. Enjoy breakfast with a group of free-ranging orangutans in their habitat, and spend time with kangaroos and flying foxes in the lush rainforest setting that encompasses the entire zoo.

It may not be the world’s largest zoo, but it is certainly an experience not to be missed.

Visit the Singapore Zoo at 80 Mandai Lake Rd, 729826

READ MORE: Explore our complete Singapore Travel Guide

As one of the largest zoos in the UK, it also happens to be one of the best zoos in the world! Chester Zoo is committed to developing a long-term conservation strategy for animals in Africa and puts a focus on research and education.

Come to see the giraffes and their closest living relatives, the okapi, both of which are endangered. If you’re lucky, you may see babies of both species – Chester Zoo is successful in breeding them!

Visit the Chester Zoo: at Chester CH2 1EU, United Kingdom

READ MORE: Find out which famous castle in England made our list of the best castles in the world

In terms of conservation, this may be the best zoo in the world. The San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research is the largest zoo-based multidisciplinary research effort in the world with over 200 scientists carrying out research globally.

The zoo houses over 3,700 animals including Giant Pandas, gorillas, monkeys, elephants, and many more.

Visit the San Diego Zoo at 2920 Zoo Dr, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

READ MORE: San Diego Zoo and other famous landmarks can be visited virtually

This is the largest zoo in Canada, and at 710 acres (287 ha), is one of the largest zoos in the world. With over 16,000 animals to see, Toronto Zoo is not one to miss!

The zoo has also been successful in captive breeding programs and the reintroduction of many species. This puts it on a lot of lists of the best zoos in the world.

Visit the Toronto Zoo at 2000 Meadowvale Rd, Toronto, ON M1B 5K7, Canada

READ MORE: While in Canada don’t miss out on Niagara Falls, one of the largest waterfalls in the world

This zoo is one of the best and most unique. Located in Helsinki, this is the largest zoo in Finland. Their mission is to teach visitors about the importance of conserving biodiversity. The zoo also aims to be carbon neutral by the year 2030.

Visit the Amur tigers, snow leopards, and more, all while taking in the luscious green Finnish landscape.

Visit the Korkeasaari Zoo at Mustikkamaanpolku 12, 00270 Helsinki, Finland

READ MORE: Wild Taiga in Finland is a great place for a fun family vacation

Many would rate this as one of the best zoos in the world, renowned for its leadership in conservation and animal research. At Henry Doorly Zoo in Nebraska, you’ll find 17,000 animals of 962 species, spanning over 130 acres (53 ha) of land. This makes it the largest zoo in the world by space.

It features the largest cat complex in North America, the world’s largest indoor swamp, the world’s largest indoor desert, and the largest glazed geodesic dome in the world.

With acreage and species numbers combined, the Henry Doorly Zoo is incomparable. This is the most-loved and biggest zoo in the world.

Visit the Henry Doorly Zoo at 3701 S 10th St, Omaha, NE 68107, United States

READ MORE: Discover the top 10 most endangered species in the world

Home to 135 species and over 1,400 animals, the Auckland Zoo is the largest zoo in New Zealand. This year, the zoo celebrates its 100th year anniversary with new members of the family: the birth of Bahmi the baby orangutan and Sali the Sumatran tiger.

The newly developed $60 million South East Asia development is an experience like no other. Take a walk on the immersive South East Asia Jungle Track while exploring the creatures of the wetlands, lowlands, swamp forest and lake.

While soaking in the fun, be sure to enter the zoo’s monthly photo competition by tagging your Instagram shots with #ZooSnaps and #AucklandZoo.

Visit Auckland Zoo at Motions Rd, Auckland 1022, New Zealand

Explore the wildlife in the land down under at the Melbourne Zoo. Visit the elusive Snow Leopard, cute Wombats and native Tamarins together with the rest of the 317 species the zoo has to offer.

The zoo is also leading in conservation efforts. Dedicated to the recovery and conservation of 27 local threatened species such as the Tasmanian Devil, the Melbourne Zoo aims to become the world’s leading zoo-based conservation organisation.

When visiting, remember to pre-book your tickets online as they aren’t sold at the gate.

Visit Melbourne Zoo at Elliott Ave, Parkville VIC 3052, Australia

This zoo is the world’s oldest and most beautiful zoo. Established in 1752, the Tiergarten Schönbrunn features more than 700 species of animals and over 8000 animals, along with picturesque landscapes and traditional architecture.

Learn about endangered breeds of farm animals such as Noriker horses, Carinthian sheep and Tauernsheck goats housed at the Tirolerhof (Tyrolean Farmyard).

It is no wonder that the zoo has also been crowned a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site and the best zoo in Europe.

Visit the Tiergarten Schönbrunn at Maxingstraße 13b, 1130 Wien, Austria

Spanning more than 10 square kilometres across the heart of central North Carolina, this zoo is one of the largest zoos in the world.

For an authentic and natural experience, visit the 1,800 animals residing in their natural habitats here. Hop on an open-air vehicle and tour the Watani Grassland exhibit or embark on the many hiking trails and rope courses.

Visit the North Carolina Zoo at 4401 Zoo Pkwy, Asheboro, NC 27205, United States

Visit the best zoos in the world for an amazing experience

If you are planning a trip to a zoo, you’ll want it to be one of the very best. Whether it’s the biggest zoo in the world or the most ethical and eco-friendly, make sure you are supporting good causes!

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25 of the Best Zoos In the World for Your Next Family Vacation

Many of us treasure our memories of a childhood trip to the zoo. It’s easy to underestimate what a fantastic experience this can be for a child. It will likely be the first time that they get to see real-life animals they’re so familiar with in books and cartoons. Also,  a zoo trip can be the highlight of your family vacation for little ones, so when building your trip itineraries, don’t forget to add some of the Best Zoos in the World to your list.

Best Zoos in the World: An Admission Deal Hack

If you are a zoo member in your hometown or home state, don’t forget to look up what reciprocal membership benefits it provides. There are different Zoo associations and affiliations, but the concept is the same. Many zoos will honor your Zoo Annual Pass at theirs for either free admission or 50% off tickets. It’s a great way to stretch your vacation dollar and use something you’ve already paid for.

We use this approach with our Library Science Center Membership and leverage their affiliation with the Association of Science and Technology Centers (ASTC) passport program to go to Science Museums free during our trips to Virginia, Florida, and Pennsylvania. It’s the same concept with Zoos! If you don’t know the details of your Zoo membership, send an email to the membership department at your home zoo.

25 of the Best Zoos in the World

If you’re traveling to Europe, America, the Middle East, Asia Pacific with your family in the coming year, here are some of the Best Zoos in the World for you to consider. And if you’ve got a real animal lover in your family, why not see these glorious animals on a one-day safari in Africa.

1. San Diego Zoo – California, USA

San Diego Zoo is one of the world’s most famous wildlife sanctuaries and one of the best zoos in the world. It’s home to more than 3,500 rare animals (more than 650 species) and 700,000 exotic plants . 

As you’d expect from a world-leading tourist attraction, there are plenty of activities for kids, including the bus tour, gondola rides, and the memorable Skyfari. San Diego is known as a perfect destination for a family trip in Southern California, and a trip to this Zoo is a must-do for your visit.

2. Beauval Zoo, France

Just a 2-hour drive from Paris, you’ll find Beauval Zoo often voted one of the most best zoos in the world for its beauty. There are so many animals you’ll need a full day to experience them all. Then, when you can’t walk anymore, ride the fun cable car to cross the park. Highlights include a fun seal show and a spectacular bird display, when over 500 owls, cranes, pelicans, storks, and others swoop gracefully overhead- a magical and unforgettable experience.

3. Pairi Daiza, Belgium

Pairi Daiza was voted Best Zoo in Europe in 2019 and listed among the 50 must-see destinations for families in Europe. Spread over 70 acres, Pairi Daiz is home to 7,000 animals, including various endangered species which are part of a protection and breeding program. In addition, it’s one of the best zoos in the world to see giant pandas.

4. Ueno Zoo, Japan

One of Japan’s most famous zoos, the traditionally laid-out Ueno Zoo is home to many unusual animals, such as Hokkaido brown bears, Japanese macaques, and wild cormorants. In addition, there’s a giant panda that always delights, as well as a fun children’s zoo area.

5. Berlin Zoo, Germany

Zoo Berlin, one of Germany’s most popular attractions, is home to the largest variety of zoo species in the world.  You’ll be wowed by the only giant pandas in Germany and endangered great apes such as orangutans, Eastern lowland gorillas, and chimpanzees – which are always a big hit with kids. You’ll also get a chance to see critically endangered species, such as Przewalski’s horses, which are bred for release back into the wild.

6. Taronga Zoo, Sydney, Australia

Lots of entertaining animals such as the squirrel & tamarin monkeys and the echidnas in this small, suburban zoo earned it a spot on this list of best zoos in the world. (By the way, an echidna is a toothless burrowing nocturnal egg-laying mammal aka a spiny anteater – and it’s very rare!) The bird and seals shows are lovely for kids, and there are other tourist attractions, such as the ferry, right nearby.

7. Schonnbrun Zoo, Vienna, Austria

The world’s oldest zoo is now better known for its giant Ferris wheel – which is a must-ride for kids of all ages! The zoo itself houses more than 4000 animals from each continent, so there’s plenty to fascinate budding naturalists. And, of course, they’ll be thrilled by the prospect of a visit to the Bat Cave!

8. Chester Zoo, England

Almost 2 million visitors per year flock to see over 500 different species of animals and insects, including some of the most endangered species on the planet. Chester Zoo is a year-round, full-day visitor attraction accessible for everyone.  As well as the usual big cats and African giants, kids will be enchanted by the antics of the meerkats, lemurs, and bats.

9. Valencia Bioparc, Spain

This unique zoo offers a “zoo immersion” concept making it one of the best zoos in the world. You’ll feel you’re in Africa as natural habitats are accurately recreated, but you’re really in Europe. Animals live in the way they would in the wild – alone, in social groups, or coexisting peacefully with companion species. Predatory animals are kept separate by invisible safety barriers, so you’ll feel the excitement of being right up close to them. If you’re in Spain, don’t miss this amazing Spanish Serengeti – you’ll be awestruck!

10. Tierpark Hagenbeck, Hamburg, Germany

Hamburg Zoo opened in 1863 and remains one of the best zoos in the world today. It now boasts a new elephant pavilion and a tropical aquarium. Animals are in naturalistic enclosures and expect to see rabbits, peacocks, and birds just wandering around. It’s one of the most family-friendly zoos on our list.  There’s even an excellent adventure playground where kids can let off steam if they get tired or distracted.

11. Bronx Zoo, New York City, US

Take a step away from the bustle of downtown NYC and travel to the Bronx Zoo. You won’t be disappointed! This is the largest urban zoo in the U.S., with over 6,000 animals within its 265 acres of parks, woods, and streams. But, of course, the kids’ petting zoo will be the biggest attraction for little ones, as they will love hand-feeding their favorite animals. There is free admission on Wednesdays if you reserve online.

12. Toronto Zoo, Canada

Take a drive on the wild side and experience Toronto Zoo from the comfort of your vehicle with the Scenic Safari Drive-Thru, or wander around the enclosures with new one-way walking routes. For an even more unforgettable experience, add on a Wild Encounter – it’s a fantastic way to get up close to the animals!

13. Conservation and Research Center for the Giant Panda, Dujiangyan, China

If your kids love to see pandas, forget the more traditional zoos and head for this fantastic, world-famous research center. Your kids will never forget the ‘Panda Carer Experience’ when they’ll get to be very close to the pandas and feed them. There are numerous enclosures with pandas at all stages of life – the babies in their playground are not to be missed.  You’ll also see some black bears and red pandas in this park. It’s accessible by train from Chengdu. Just be prepared for a steep walk to reach it. It’s well worth the effort!

14. Wellington Zoo, New Zealand

What a great place for a picnic! Take a break from spotting your favorite wildlife in one of the many shady spots dotted between the enclosures! And if you already know what a bear looks like, it’s time you met a sun bear! Well-cared-for animals in a beautiful environment make this zoo an unmissable visit when you’re in New Zealand .

15. Singapore Zoo

Set in a natural rainforest environment, Singapore Zoo is home to over 300 species of mammals, birds, and reptiles, making it one of the best zoos in the world.  Kids adore watching great apes at play – so check out the world’s first free-ranging orangutan habitat in a zoo. And don’t miss the unique ‘Jungle Breakfast with Wildlife,’ an internationally acclaimed, award-winning program that offers an exhilarating experience with these fascinating creatures.

16. Henry Doorly, Omaha, United States

With a fantastic variety of animals in well-designed viewing enclosures, there’ll be something to delight everyone. In addition, there are plenty of wonderful children’s activities – from the river area to the splash pad and more!

17. 1-Day Safari, Johannesberg, South Africa

Why come to South Africa to see the native animals in captivity when you can have the ultimate experience of seeing them in the wild?  Companies such as Soul Adventures will pick you up for a private tour of the Pilanesberg National Park . Knowledgeable guides will find all the ‘Big Five’ for you, guaranteeing memories that will last a lifetime. Not the cheapest day out, true, but one which is fantastic value for money!

18. Prague Zoo, Czechia

At the second most visited tourist destination in the Czech Republic, you’ll see over 5,000 animals and 676 species. There are 13 pavilions to explore, and kids will adore the Bororo Reserve, chairlift, mini-train, observation tower, paddling pool, and children’s zoo.  Elephant Valley, home to a herd of Asian elephants, is irresistible. But the Giant Salamander House, where you can see critically endangered Chinese Giant Salamanders – the largest amphibians in the world  – is a unique experience.

19. Sao Paolo Zoo, Brazil

Not the most significant zoo, but still has plenty of animals with lots to see and do. So to get a break from the bustle of Sao Paolo, bring a picnic and relax as you enjoy the antics of local ‘stars’ such as the Brazilian howler monkey and the red-breasted toucan.

20. St Louis Zoo, Missouri, US

If you want to see over 6,600 animals and 15 major exhibit areas – you’ll meet them in St. Louis! The zoo has added many new attractions recently to entertain visitors of all ages.  It’s a fun day out for all the family and, amazingly, the entrance is free! What’s not to like?

21. Smithsonian’s National Zoo Washington DC

This fantastic zoo, which is dedicated to conservation, welcomed two ultra-adorable baby pandas in May 2021- a rare event indeed. Get a pass so you can watch them playing and eating treats from behind a vast plexiglass viewing screen. Other exhibits are equally impressive. Entrance to this zoo is free (but be warned-parking is $30!).

22. Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo

Dubai Aquarium is one of the largest indoor aquariums globally, and it showcases one of the most diverse collections of aquatic life you’ll find anywhere. Located just above the aquarium, Underwater Zoo brings visitors close to penguins, piranhas, crabs, water rats, sea horses, jellyfish, and lots more.  Marvel at the fascinating new addition – King Croc, one of the world’s largest and rarest reptiles – over 5 meters long and weighing 750 kg plus!

23. Loro Park, Tenerife

Plan a brilliant day out for the family at another one of the best zoos in the world—a fantastic variety of animals, including big cats, monkeys, and birds of all types. There’s a brilliant polar landscape for the penguins, complete with falling snow! The shark tunnel the jellyfish tanks are a must-see!  The highlight for many is the dolphin and orca shows – but just be warned – while it’s brilliant fun to sit in the splash zone – there are no drying facilities!

24. Arignar Anna, India

The oldest public zoo in India is so huge you can cycle around it or take a buggy. For excitement, book a Lion or Deer Safari first thing in the morning and tour around the zoo later.  The magnificent white tigers are unforgettable, and you’ll also see other zoo favorites such as rhinos and hippos in addition to more unusual species such as Asiatic lions and Asiatic wolves.

25. Taipei Zoo, Taiwan

Originally a private zoological garden, this is now the largest zoo in Asia.  The giant panda house, Formosan animal area, the koala house, and Asian tropical rainforest area will amaze and enchant kids and adults.  Pandas can sometimes disappoint as they tend to sleep all day, but you’ll be able to spot their more entertaining cousins, such as red pandas.

Plan a Day Out to One of the Best Zoos in the World

Whichever zoo you choose, check out the best times to visit – so you’ll miss the crowds. As you may be spending the whole day in a zoo, investigate the catering options – sometimes a picnic is a fun and affordable alternative. Get your kids involved in researching what the zoo offers, so you can plan your day and ensure everyone gets to see what they’ve set their heart on.

And when you get there, relax and take your time to observe the fantastic diversity of the creatures you’ll see. Remember, your trip to one of the best zoos in the world will be creating memories that will last a lifetime.

This article was produced by Planner at Heart . 

Monica Fish helps her fellow adventurers live a financially savvy life so they can travel and explore our beautiful world no matter their budget. She writes about smart timeshare ownership, vacation tips and tricks, NYC Metro Area trips and activities, and frugal, yet rich, living at PlannerAtHeart.com.

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• 33 Largest Zoos In The World Where You Can Spot The Rarest Fauna And Have Ultimate Fun In 2024!

23 Mar 2023

Visiting a zoo is a one-of-a-kind experience if you look closer. They not only preserve various species but also educate us about the animals’ habitat, their way of living, food etc. Many zoos across the world attract a large number of tourists and at the same time are a fun place for kids to learn too. They can be compared based on the size of the land or the number of animals they protect and nurture, but the largest zoos in the world shall only be visited to know the reason behind their status. So, find out where to go on your next trip by taking a look at these astonishing galactic zoos and the adorable animals they shelter. These best zoos in the world are giving you a chance to observe and understand nature and wildlife from close proximity. 

Top 33 Largest Zoos In The World

Here’s a list of the biggest zoos in the world for the animal lover in you! They give you a chance to witness and admire the greatness of nature. Not just that, you will also have so much exploring the attractions inside these zoos that are meant to give you a whole-world experience. Find some of the best zoos in the world in this listing and visit some of these on your next trip!

• National Zoological Gardens Of Africa – Encircling Natural Habitat
• London Zoo – World’s Oldest Scientific Zoo
• San Diego Zoo – Breed Giant Panda
• The Bronx Zoo – Among The Oldest Metropolitan Zoos
• Henry Doorly Zoo – World’s Largest Indoor Desert
• Columbus Zoo And Aquarium – A Non-Profit Zoo
• Toronto Zoo – Canada’s Largest Zoo
• Moscow Zoo – Among The Oldest European Zoos
• Beijing Zoo – Largest Animal Collection In China
• Berlin Zoological Garden – Germany’s Oldest Zoo
• Dallas Zoo – A Throne Of A Place
• Hogle Zoo – Animals From Diverse Ecosystems
• Como Zoo – Known For Its Architecture
• Philadelphia Zoo – Among The First Zoos In The US
• Oakland Zoo – With A Large Veterinary Hospital
• Chester Zoo – Catch The Rarest Animals
• Smithsonian National Zoological Park – To Educate About Wildlife
• Riverbanks Zoo – Botanical Garden And More
• Los Angeles Zoo – Feed Flamingo And Giraffe
• Saint Louis Zoo – Innovative In Wildlife Conservation
• Jacksonville Zoo – Preserving Fauna And Flora
• Detroit Zoo – A Fauna Extravagance
• Memphis Zoo – For Some Jurassic Adventures
• North Carolina Zoo – For A Wildlife Experience
• National Zoological Park, Delhi – A Powerhouse Of Endangered Animals
• Brookfield Zoo – For The Love Of Dolphins
• Mysore Zoo – A Home For Green Anacondas
• Nehru Zoological Park – Open For Animal Adoption
• Assam State Zoo And Botanical Garden – An Abode For White Tigers
• Indira Gandhi Zoological Park – India’s Third Largest Zoo
• Zoo Miami – Curate A Special Tour
• Nandankanan Zoological Park – Spot Reptiles
• Arignar Anna Zoological Park – India’s Largest Zoo

1. National Zoological Gardens Of Africa – With Natural Habitats

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South Africa is known for its rich wildlife and this is a world famous zoo located here. Located in a natural habitat, with a land area of about 210 acres in Pretoria, South Africa, this place is the national zoo of South Africa. Its uniqueness lie in the planning involved in the structure of the zoo. One part comprises mainly of flat lands while the other is a slightly hilly one and these parts are separated by the Apies river flowing through the zoo! Here you get to see the rich wildlife of South Africa . It gets more interesting with the wide range of species housed by the zoo and a total number of animals to be around 9,000. This is one of the most loved largest zoos in the world .

Location: 232 Boom St, Daspoort 319-Jr, Pretoria, 0001, South Africa Timings: 8.30 AM to 5.30 PM Entry Fee: Starting from INR 530 per adult Tips: Hire an AC van and take a comfortable tour in the zoo Best time to visit: All year round Famous For : Largest collections of antelope in the world.

Must Read : 18 Places You Need To Visit For The Best Wildlife Experience In India

2. London Zoo – World’s Oldest Scientific Zoo

London Zoo is not just among the  world’s biggest zoos it is the world’s oldest scientific zoo established in 1828, exclusively for scientific research. This zoo is also not far behind in the conservation efforts as the recent program introduced here was that of ‘Tiger SOS’ which intends to raise funds to save the Sumatran Tiger. Opened to general public in 1847, this animal abode accommodates 16,000 animals in just 36 acres of land. This is one of the biggest zoos in the world !

Location: London NW1 4RY, UK Timings: 10 AM to 5.30 PM Entry Fee: Starting from INR 2,200 per adult through online booking as charges may vary at the entrance gate Tips: Check for the website of zoo to know the events and special show timings Best time to visit: In winters till 4 PM Famous For: Scientific Zoo; Polar bear, Gorillas,Orangutans, Western lowland gorilla, Giant panda 

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3. San Diego Zoo – Breed Giant Panda

Saint Diego Zoo is one of the biggest zoo in the world which is known for its conservation efforts. Located in California, one of the rare zoos to accommodate and breed giant panda, it is believed that San Diego is one of the best and largest zoos in the world. With a total land area of approximately 100 acres, it houses several species and subspecies of animals. This zoo is not only active in preserving and conservational efforts with respect to the wildlife here, but also ensures an open-air exhibit for each animal with an aim to eventually release the animals into the wild in future. You can combine your visit to this zoo with any of your group tour in USA .

Location: 2920 Zoo Dr, San Diego, CA 92101, USA Timings: 9 AM to 6 PM Entry Fee: INR 4000 Approx per adult and INR 3,000 per child for a day Tips: Take the map of the park and you must arrive early. Wear comfortable shoes! Best time to visit: When the weather is pleasant especially in the morning when the crowd is less Famous For : Conservation efforts, Endangered species breeding programs; koalas, hippopotamuses, tigers, giraffes, gorillas

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4. The Bronx Zoo – Among The Oldest Metropolitan Zoos

The Bronx Zoo is one of the world’s largest zoo which is popular for its award winning exhibitions. Get prepared to be amazed at one of the world’s oldest metropolitan zoos located in the New York city. Displaying natural habitats of the animals, this zoo has a total land area of about 265 acres housing around 4000 animals of different species. Being the largest zoo in the USA , Bronx has no shortage of tourists as it receives over 2 million visitors every year and now we know why this place is a must visit for every animal-lover.

Location: 2300 Southern Blvd, Bronx, NY 10460, USA Timings: 10 AM to 5 PM (Mon-Fri); 10 AM to 5.30 PM (Sat, Sun) Entry Fee: INR 1700 per adult and INR 1,000 per child for a day Tips: You must check that animals are available for viewing or not. Wear sports shoes for a comfortable walk. Best time to visit: From March 31 st to November 3 rd when the animals are outside and can be seen. Famous For: Award-winning exhibitions like Himalayan Highlands, Jungle World, Baboon Reserve

Suggested Read : 25 Amazing Wildlife Sanctuaries In India For Adventurous Safaris And Encounters With The Wild!

5. Henry Doorly Zoo – World’s Largest Indoor Desert

Henry Doorly Zoo being one of the world largest zoo is famous for desert dome and indoor deserts. Housing around 17,000 animals and considered to be one of the largest zoos in the world, Henry Doorly Zoo located in Nebraska was originally built in 1864. It is also known to have the largest cat complex in the world and world’s largest indoor desert. One can witness the spectacular glazed geodesic dome here which is also said to be the largest in the world. These unique and extraordinary features make Henry Doorly Zoo one of the most famous zoos in the world.

Location: 3701 S 10th St, Omaha, NE 68107, USA Timings: 9 AM to 5 PM Entry Fee: INR 1,400 for adults and INR 950 per child for a day Tips: Don’t visit on weekends due to the rush. Carry some snacks with you. Best time to visit: Open all year round except Christmas day Famous For: Desert Dome , indoor deserts; Kingdoms of the Night, a nocturnal exhibit and indoor swamp; glazed geodesic dome; the Lied Jungle, indoor rainforests

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6. Columbus Zoo And Aquarium – A Non-Profit Zoo

Assigned the status of number 1 zoo in the United States on many occasions, it’s a must visit for the diverse attractions that it offers on its 530 acres of land, besides housing the 7,000 animals. It is yet another zoo with applaudable efforts in conservation and protection of wildlife, raising approximately 3 million for 70 projects. What’s more notable about this place is that it is a non-profit zoo working towards protecting the fauna for good.

Location: 4850 W Powell Rd, Powell, OH 43065, USA Timings: 9 AM to 5 PM Entry Fee: INR 1,000 per adult and INR 700 per child approximately Tips: Arrive on time as the zoo is big enough and will require a couple of hours. Best time to visit: From mid-August until mid-May Famous For: Bear Exhibit; the Surfin Safari, Giraffe Feeding, Discovery Reef Diver; western lowland gorilla, white handed gibbon

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7. Toronto Zoo – Canada’s Largest Zoo

Visit the largest zoo in Canada with a land area of about 710 acres and incredible space to house more than 5000 animals in here. That’s right, the Toronto Zoo, opened in 1974, is a popular attraction amongst tourists of all ages and even has categories for animals belonging to different regions all over the world and the same can be seen from separate levels in the zoo! This is one of the best places to visit in Toronto .

Location: 2000 Meadowvale Rd, Toronto, ON M1B 5K7, Canada Timings: 9.30 AM to 4.30 PM (Mon-Fri); 9.30 AM to 6 PM (Sat, Sun) Entry Fee: Starting from INR 1,700 per adult and INR 1,000 per child for a day Tips: Avoid parking. Buy something from the gift shop and plan a route for you. Best time to visit: In the Fall season, mid-day or afternoon is good when it’s not too hot. People must go in the morning hours Famous For: White-headed vulture, African lion, Ostrich, White rhinoceros, River hippopotamus, African Penguin, Spotted hyena

Suggested Read : Nanda Devi National Park: A Sanctuary In The Garhwal Himalayas 

8. Moscow Zoo – Among The Oldest European Zoos

Why visit the Moscow Zoo? Well, being one of the oldest zoos in Europe, largest zoo in Russia, and home to 6000 animals, this zoo is an outstanding example of development with time. This is one of the biggest zoos in the world ! With a renovation in 1990s, the zoo has extended land area making room for a separate aquarium and a sea lion exhibit. It also has different attractions meant only for kids and has a footbridge connecting the opposite parts of the zoo. For the best experience, plan your visit during summers in Moscow .

Location: Bolshaya Gruzinskaya Street, 1, Moskva, Russia, 123242 Timings: 7.30 AM to 9 PM Entry Fee: Varying charges depending upon the day Tips: Book tickets well in advance. Carry a camera. Best time to visit: People can visit between 7:30 AM in the morning till 8:00 PM in the evening Famous For: Bears, large cats, elephants, penguin, giraffes; Dolphin aquarium  

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9. Beijing Zoo – Largest Animal Collection In China

This is one of the top zoos in the world. The Beijing Zoo holds a great significance for the Chinese folk and it was founded in 1906 during the rule of Qing dynasty. This zoo houses over 950 species of animals and is known to have the largest collection of animals in China. While six million people come to visit this place every year, one can see rare animals like, Chinese Great Salamander, Giant pandas, and South China Tigers. This place is surely in the top list of awesome things to do in Beijing . This is certainly amongst the world’s largest zoo .

Location: 137 Xizhimen Outer St, DongWuYuan, Xicheng Qu, Beijing Shi, China, 100037 Timings: 7.30 AM to 6 PM (Apr-Oct); 7.30 AM to 5 PM (Nov-Mar) Entry Fee: Starting from INR 200 per adult for a day Tips: You must surely take time to visit the panda house and aquarium which are the highlights of the zoo. Best time to visit: To see the pandas the best time is considered after 3 o’clock in the afternoon when they are lazy Famous For: South China tiger; Golden snub-nosed monkey; Giant panda; Red panda

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10. Berlin Zoological Garden – Germany’s Oldest Zoo

In a mere 86 acres of land, the Berlin Zoological Garden houses a grand number of animals, that is, around 18,662. The zoo’s efforts towards conservation and preservation of wildlife are also commendable as they tie up with universities for the same and raise funds. Being the oldest zoo in Germany, most visited in Europe, and the most popular one worldwide, one has to see it inside out to believe the grand stature it holds. The place is also known to offer the best safaris in Germany !

Location: Hardenbergplatz 8, 10787 Berlin, Germany Timings: 9 AM to 6.30 PM Entry Fee: Starting from INR 1,300 per adult Tips: You must carry your own food with you. Best time to visit: From January to December. However, the timing varies for every month. Famous For: Regular animal feeding; The polar bear, The giant panda

Suggested Read : 17 Best Zoos In India That Every Wildlife Enthusiast Must Add To Their Travel Bucket List

11. Dallas Zoo – A Throne Of A Place

The Dallas Zoo is one of the best zoos in the world with an area of around 106 acres, over 2,100 animals, 406 species and 700 volunteers to guide you. A world in itself, the zoo is very popular among the tourists, locals and considered one of the best places to visit in Dallas . The zoo is 20 years old and hails multiple attractions within including the monorail ride, the Wilds of Africa Adventure Safari and the T-Rex Express. There is an animal-themed merry-go-round Carousel that is a major point of interest among the kids. What’s more is that you find shopping and dining facilities inside the zoo.

Location : 650 S R L Thornton Fwy, Dallas, TX 75203, United States Timings : 9 AM to 4 PM Entry Fee : INR 800 to 1200 Tips: Feed the animals you will love. Enjoy a meal at picnic ridge. Best time to visit: In springtime, people can visit and even in April at the time of National Zoo lover’s day. Famous For: Giraffe feedings; Endangered Species Carousel; Africa Adventure Safari

Suggested Read : 3 Zoos In Andhra Pradesh Where You Can Interact With Wildlife

12. Hogle Zoo – Animals From Diverse Ecosystems

Found in the state of Utah, Hogle Zoo acquires only 42 acres of land and houses around 800 animals from 249 different species. You will find apes, elephants, giraffes, and tigers in this zoo. If you are planning a visit to Utah then do not forget to explore this place with your family and kids. Indeed, a visit to this zoo would one of the most fascinating things to do in Utah .

Location: 2600 Sunnyside Ave S, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, USA Timings: 9 AM to 6 PM Entry Fee: Ranges from INR 1,000 to 1,500 Tips: Do not go on free zoo days as it will be over crowded. Get the show timings before entering. Best time to visit: From March 1 st to October 31 st . However, time may vary. Famous For: Giraffe feeding; Amur tiger, largest big endangered Asian cat, Elephant Encounter exhibit (featuring African elephants and white rhinos)  

Suggested Read : Top 4 Zoos In North East That Are Home To Some Magnificent Wild Creatures!

13. Como Zoo – Known For Its Architecture

Well-appreciated for its architecture and idea, Como Zoo is among the best things to do in Minnesota . Founded in the year 1897, the zoo houses 1,700 animals in only 17 acres of land. Moreover, you can also admire 66 different species of animals here. They have recently revamped the place and expanded the polar bear and ape sections. The admission to this zoo is free as it is dependent on charitable donations and state funding.

Location: 1225 Estabrook Dr, St Paul, MN 55103, USA Timings: 10 AM to 6 PM Entry Fee: Free Tips: Bring a camera for sure and arrive early to avoid rush. Best time to visit: From 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM at any time of the year. Famous For: Marjorie McNeely Conservatory; Gorilla program; Polar bear program

Suggested Read : 7 Zoos In Maharashtra That Will Let You Spend Time With Nature’s Loved Ones

14. Philadelphia Zoo – Among The First Zoos In The US

Sprawled in an area of 42 acres, Philadelphia Zoo is one of the largest zoos in the world 2023 that is visited by several animal lovers. Established in the year 1874, this zoo is now home to around 2,440 animals of 340 species. If you too are an animal lover and want to explore different species of animals then head to the Philadelphia Zoo in Pennsylvania. Visiting this awesome zoo is surely amongst the best things to do in Pennsylvania .

Location: Zoological Dr, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA Timings: 9.30 AM to 5 PM Entry Fee: INR 1500 per person Tips: Visit during off peak hours to get the best experience. Best time to visit: In early morning hours or visit after 2 o’clock in the afternoon when the rush is minimum. Famous For: Southern white rhinoceros; Sloth bear; Amur tiger

Suggested Read : 5 Most Enthralling Zoos In Bangkok You Must Visit To Explore Thailand’s Wildlife! 

15. Oakland Zoo – With A Large Veterinary Hospital

Oakland Zoo is one of the largest zoos in the world as it houses animals in their natural habitats. Spread in an area of 100 acres, this zoo hosts around 660 animals. Moreover, they established a 17,000 square foot veterinary hospital which is one of the largest hospitals in Northern California. This place is amongst the largest zoological park in the world . The zoo is located in proximity to the popular trekking trails in Northern California .

Location: 9777 Golf Links Rd, Oakland, CA 94605, USA Timings: 10 AM to 4.30 PM (Tues-Fri), 9.30 AM to 4.30 PM (Sat-Mon) Entry Fee: INR 1500 (Children & Senior Citizens), INR 1900 (Adults) Tips: Carry a stroll with you. Get some snacks to eat as well. Best time to visit: The week days 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. On weekends 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM. Famous For: Elephant care program; Veterinary hospital

Suggested Read : 5 Marvelous Zoos In Toronto To Visit With Kids On A Canadian Holiday

16. Chester Zoo – Catch The Rarest Animals

The Chester Zoo is one of the largest zoos in the world located in Cheshire, England. Spanning an area of 125 acres and inaugurated by the George Mottershead family in 1931, it’s one of the largest in England. In terms of animal count, this is the largest zoo in the world with over 21,000 animals across 500 or more species. You can also find animals on the verge of extinction – the rarest of the rare. Some great things to do include a boat trip on Lazy River, dine at the restaurants, picnic at numerous spots and enjoy a monorail ride.

Location : Chester CH2 1EU, United Kingdom Timings : 10 AM to 4 PM Entry Fee : INR 1500 to 1900 Tips: Arrive at least 20 minutes before the zoo opens. It is helpful in parking. Best time to visit: Winters is the perfect time to visit the zoo Famous For: George the giraffe; Jubilee the elephant

Suggested Read : 6 Captivating Zoos In Bali Where You Can Befriend The Exotic Animals

17. Smithsonian National Zoological Park – To Educate About Wildlife

Smithsonian National Zoological Park is one of the oldest and most famous zoos in the United States that acquires an area of 164 acres and houses more than 2,000 animals of 400 separate species. As the aim of this zoo is to promote and educate wildlife conservation among as many people as possible, there is no fees required to explore this zoo. This is amongst the world’s largest zoo . In fact, this is one of the best places to visit in Washington D.C .

Location: 3001 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20008, USA Timings: 8 AM to 5 PM Entry Fee: Free Tips: Don’t use parking as it is quite expensive. Skip the food in the zoo. Best time to visit: The fall season when the days are cooler and pandas are seen. Famous For: Exhibits like Birdhouse, Amazonia, Giant Panda Habitat, Asia Trail

Suggested Read: 7 Wildlife Sanctuaries Near Hyderabad To Explore The Wild Side Of South!

18. Riverbanks Zoo – Botanical Garden And More

Riverbanks Zoo and Garden in Columbia, South Carolina is quite popular for its enormous collection of wildlife. The zoo also comprises an interesting aquarium and stunning botanical garden offering the best adventurous experiences in Columbia. Riverbanks Zoo is sprawling over 170 acres of land and welcomes nearly 1 million visitors every year. This is undoubtedly one of the most popular largest zoos in the world . Riverbanks Zoo is certainly one of the best places to visit in Colombia . 

Location: 500 Wildlife Pkwy, Columbia, SC 29210, United States Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM Entry Fee: INR 3500 Tips: Take a map at the entrance gate. Pets are not permitted in the park. Best time to visit: From 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM and it’s better to arrive before 11:00 AM Famous For: Birdhouse; African elephants, gorillas, koalas

Suggested Read: Sikkim Wildlife: 8 Awe-Striking Top Sanctuaries and National Parks

19. Los Angeles Zoo – Feed Flamingo And Giraffe

Los Angeles is quite popular for its zoo known as Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens. It was inaugurated in the year 1966 and has been welcoming visitors from across the world since its inception. This zoo in Los Angeles is home to nearly 1100 animals of over 250 species. 

Location: 5333 Zoo Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90027, United States Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM Entry Fee: INR 3200 Tips: You must check the show timings before entering the zoo. Hire zoo shuttle if required. Best time to visit: Week days are good but on weekends full bird shows and condor play is also organised there. Famous For: Elephant care demonstrations, Seal demonstrations, Campfire stories; Giraffe feeding, Flamingo Mingle, Safari Shuttle

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20. Saint Louis Zoo – Innovative In Wildlife Conservation

Saint Louis Zoo was officially opened in 1910 with the formation of the Zoological Society Of St. Louis. The zoo was formed with the mission to connect people to animals. It houses over 17,000 animals including several rare and endangered species. A specialty of this zoo is that it uses a variety of innovative methods for wildlife conservation and animal management. Spread across 90 acres, Saint Louse Zoo features vivid animal habitats, animal exhibits, attractions, dining and shopping spaces.

Location: Government Dr, St. Louis, MO 63110, United States Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM Entry Fee: Entry is free, though you would be charged for some attractions Tips: See the penguin and sea lions first if you have less time. Bring an umbrella with you. Best time to visit: Early morning is great to see the animals along with a visit to Children’s zoo. Famous For: Penguin & Puffin Coast; Hippo Harbor; Sea Lion Sound

Suggested Read: 6 Best Wildlife Sanctuaries Near Bangalore One Must Definitely Visit And Enjoy A Day Amidst Nature

21. Jacksonville Zoo – Preserving Fauna And Flora

Jacksonville Zoo And Gardens is home to over 2,000 animals, including elephants, giraffes, rhinos, zebras, warthogs, jaguars, cheetahs, tapirs, howler monkeys, giant otters, fish, and tropical birds. This zoo in Florida is located near River Trout. Spanning an area of about 117 acres, this place envelopes about 1000 plant species too. Jacksonville Zoo is one of the biggest zoos in the world and it protects a wide variety of flora and fauna.

Location: 370 Zoo Pkwy, Jacksonville, FL 32218, United States Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM Entry Fee: INR 1500 – INR 2050 (Free for children aged 2 or below) Tips: Don’t carry any packed food as they don’t permit inside the zoo. Best time to visit: In winters when animals feel more active than in summers Famous For: Jaguars; Wild Florida exhibit, Land of the Tiger exhibit, Trout River dock

Suggested Read: 15 Wildlife Sanctuaries In Gujarat For Spending A Day With Nature

22. Detroit Zoo – A Fauna Extravagance

Get ready to have face-to-face encounters with some of the most exotic animals and enjoy a great time at the massive 125 acre Detroit Zoo. The zoo is located 2 miles north of the Detroit city in Royal Oak and Huntington Woods, Michigan and is one of the largest zoos in the world. Expect to find over 2,000 animals ranging from 230 or above species including penguins, zebra, aardvarks and much more. Exploring this might be one of the best things to do in Detroit , as your scope for exploration does not stop with animal viewing. Some attractions that you can tend to while exploring the zoo are the Rackham Fountain, the simulator ride, carousel ride and a 4D theater.

Location : 8450 W 10 Mile Rd, Royal Oak, MI 48067, United States Timings : 10 AM to 4 PM Entry Fee : INR 700 to 1500 Tips: Pack some snacks along with sunscreen and cover your head with hats to protect from peacocks. Best time to visit: Mid October to April when the weather is pleasant. Famous For : Arctic Ring of Life; Great Apes of Harambee; Penguinarium and Butterfly Garden

Suggested Read: 5 Offbeat Tourist Places Near Detroit That Are Totally Worth Visiting!

23. Memphis Zoo – For Some Jurassic Adventures

Memphis Zoo in the United States was established in April 1906. There are more than 4,500 animals belonging over 500 different species. African Veldt, Cat Country, and Dragon’s Lair are some of the zones at the park. Some of the animals that you would find here are African Elephant, Bongo, Zebra, Grant’s Gazelle, Southern White Rhino. Give a kick start to your wonderful vacation by visiting one of the biggest zoos in the world. The park hosts several activities and events for the visitors. There are some special Jurassic adventures too.

Location: 2000 Prentiss Pl, Memphis, TN 38112, United States Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM Entry Fee: INR 900 – INR 1300 Tips: You must check the website to see what’s special for that day. Must visit with family. Best time to visit: Month of December when the weather is cooler Famous For : Giraffes; Elephants; Rhinos

Suggested Read: 5 Stunning Places To Visit Near Singapore Zoo For Unlimited Fun

24. North Carolina Zoo – For A Wildlife Experience

Image Credit: Pixabay

Sprawled across an area of 5.548 km², North Carolina Zoo is situated in North Carolina and is considered the biggest zoo in North America. Therefore, exploring this zoo at its best usually takes more than a day. It is one of the largest zoos in the world . This zoo is home to more than 1800 diverse animals. Some of the common animals that can be spotted here are addra gazelle, African elephant, African lion, Arctic fox, American alligator, beaded lizard, blue-tongued skink, black bear, bongo, chimpanzee.

Location: 4401 Zoo Pkwy, Asheboro, NC 27205, United States Timings: April to October: 9 AM – 5 PM, November to March: 9 AM – 4 PM Entry Fee: INR 800 – INR 1121 Tips: Plan to arrive early on holidays. Famous For: Kaleidoscope Butterfly Garden; Acacia Station Giraffe Deck; Endangered Species Carousel Best time to visit: April to May  

25. National Zoological Park, Delhi – A Powerhouse Of Endangered Animals

National Zoological Park in Delhi covers an area of 176 acres and is home to more than 1350 animals. Some of the endangered and vulnerable species such as royal Bengal tiger and one horned Indian rhinoceros can be spotted here. The zoo has beautiful pathways to facilitate long walks. Note that the option of exploring the park in a battery operated vehicle is also available. 

Location: Mathura Rd, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, Delhi 110003 Timings: 1st April to 15th October: 9AM to 4:30PM, 16th October to 31st March: 9:30AM to 4PM Entry Fee: Indian Citizens: INR 20 – INR 40, Foreign Nationals: INR 100 – INR 200 Tips: Ensure that you have enough energy to cover fairly long areas Famous For: Runs conservation breeding programs for endangered animals Best time to visit: Winters

26. Brookfield Zoo – For The Love Of Dolphins

Also known as Chicago Zoological Park, Brookfield Zoo is a zoo situated in Chicago. It covers an area of approximately 216 acres that is home to more than 450 species of animals. This zoo in Chicago has bagged many firsts as the first zoo to import giant pandas in the US. It truly is an interesting place to visit for a fun-filled experience. Moreover, it is a perfect place to visit for dolphin lovers.

Location: 8400 W 31st St, Brookfield, IL 60513, United States Timings: Time varies for different months and days Entry Fee: INR 1342 – INR 1865.4 Tips: Avoid weekends if you do not like crowd Famous For: Indoor dolphin exhibits; Butterflies gallery Best time to visit: Anytime of the year

27. Mysore Zoo – A Home For Green Anacondas

Also known by the name of Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens, Mysore Zoo is situated at a distance of approximately 4.1 km from Mysore. This zoo is spread over an area of 157 acres. It is governed by the Department of Parks and Gardens of Mysore. Some of the animals spotted here include elephants, giraffes, zebras, white rhinoceroses, etc. Note that both the options of exploring the zoo by foot or through a vehicle operated by battery are available. 

Location: Zoo Main Road, Indira Nagar, Ittige Gudu, Mysuru, Karnataka 570010 Timings: 8:30AM – 5:30PM Entry Fee: Normal Rates:  INR 40 – INR 80, Saturday / Sunday /Govt Holidays: INR 50 – INR 100 Tips: If you arrive early in morning hours, you will get to see birds and reptiles. Famous For: Animal adoption program; Artificial lake; Green anacondas Best time to visit: To see most of the animals visit before 11.00 AM or after 3.00 PM

28. Nehru Zoological Park – Open For Animal Adoption

Covering an area of 380.5 acres, Nehru Zoological Park is one of the best destinations to visit in Hyderabad for nature lovers. This zoo accommodates a total of 1100 animals of 100 diverse species. One of the unique features of this zoo is that it has an artificial day-night reversal system that allows visitors to witness animals in their nocturnal habitat.

Location: NH 44, Bahadurpura, Hyderabad, Telangana 500064 Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM (Closed on Monday) Entry Fee: Weekday: INR 30 – INR 50, Weekends/Holidays: INR 40 – INR 60 Tips: You can carry food but don’t carry plastic bags inside Famous For: Nocturnal house; Butterfly park; Tortoise park, Dino park Best time to visit: Any time of the year

29. Assam State Zoo And Botanical Garden – An Abode For White Tigers

Assam State Zoo And Botanical Garden can be termed as one of the largest zoos in the world that is situated in the North eastern region of India. It was established in 1958. It covers an area of approximately 432 acres and receives an annual footfall of more than 4 lakhs travelers. One of the highlights of visiting this zoo is white tigers.

Location: RG Baruah Rd, Ambikagirinagar, Guwahati, Assam 781005 Timings: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM (Closed on Friday) Entry Fee: Indian: INR 10 – INR 30, Foreign Nationals: INR 30 – INR 100 Tips: Avoid days with high temperatures and heavy rains Famous For: Aviary; Nocturnal house Best time to visit: September and March (winter season)

30. Indira Gandhi Zoological Park – India’s Third Largest Zoo

Indira Gandhi Zoological Park may not make its name in the list of world’s biggest zoos but it is the third largest zoo in India. It was established in 1977. The zoo accommodates approximately 850 animals. It is also a great place to spot Royal Bengal tigers, Indian Grey Wolf, Sarus Crane, etc.

Location: Near Dairy Farm, Yendada, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh 530040 Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed on Monday) Entry Fee: INR 10 – INR 20 Tips: Must carry your camera to capture amazing shots of animals and surrounding Famous For: Budgerigar; Macaw; Ostrich; Barking deer Best time to visit: Winter

31. Zoo Miami – Curate A Special Tour

Also known as Miami Dade Zoological Park, Zoo Miami is home to more than 3,000 animals. It covers an area of approximately 750 acres. It is some of the largest zoos in the world . Apart from spotting amazing animals, one can also partake in several informational activities such as feedings, rides, etc., or can arrange a special tour. Moreover, there is also an online zoo shop to get amazing stuff.

Location: 12400 SW 152nd St, Miami, FL 33177, United States Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM Entry Fee: INR 1416.8 – INR 1715.8 Tips: Wear comfortable shoes Famous For: Animal feeding; Kids Zones Best time to visit: Morning

32. Nandankanan Zoological Park – Spot Reptiles

Situated close to Kanjia lake, Nandankanan Zoological Park is a beautiful place to visit for animal lovers in Odisha. This zoo is a part of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums. It is situated at a distance of approximately 11.8 km from Bhubaneswar. It covers an area of 1080 acres. Reptile park, zoo museum, and nocturnal animal house are some of the highlights of this zoo.

Location: Nandankanan Rd, Near Police Station, Barang, Bhubaneswar, Odisha 754005 Timings: April to September: 07:30 AM – 5:30 PM, October to March: 08:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed on Monday) Entry Fee: Indian: INR 10 – INR 50, Foreign National: INR 100 Tips: Opt to go on a boat ride Famous For: White Tiger Safari; Kanija Lake Boating; Reptile Park Best time to visit: July to October

33. Arignar Anna Zoological Park – India’s Largest Zoo

Arignar Anna Zoological Park is one best zoos in India. Also known as Vandalur Zoo, Arignar Anna Zoological Park is spread over an area of around 1,265 acres. It was established in the year 1855. It accommodates around 2700 animals that are of 171 different species. The zoo also hosts an animal rehabilitation center that provides shelter to abandoned animals. It is the largest zoo in India and is also one of the world’s biggest zoos .

Location: Grand Southern Trunk Rd, Vandalur, Tamil Nadu 600048 Timings: 09:00 am to 06:00 pm (closed on Tuesdays) Entry Fee: 30 INR (adults); 10 INR (children); INR 25 (camera fee) Tips: Make sure you keep yourself hydrated while taking a strol Famous For: Forest museum; Lion and deer safari; Animal rehabilitation center; Butterfly Park Best time to visit: January, February, November, and December 

Suggested Read: 5 Best Zoos In Canberra To Witness The Charming Wildlife Of This Enchanting City

Tips For Visiting Zoos

Here are a few tips to visit the zoos and also keep necessary things in mind:

• Respect the boundaries and never enter the animal’s enclosure. This can put both you and animals in great danger.
• Never feed animals anything. Feeding animals is strictly prohibited until done under supervision during a feeding activity arranged by the zoo itself.
• Do not litter around the premises and dispose of waste in the dustbin.
• Do not play music inside a zoo. It can create problems both for the visitors as well as the animals.
• Do not destroy the natural habitat by any means.
• Do not carry a food item or eat a food item out in the open.
• It goes without saying smoking is strictly prohibited.
• Go through the websites of the respective zoos to learn more about their specific rules and regulations.
• Carrying sharp objects or fire arms is strictly prohibited.
• Never tease animals and do not tamper the cages or glass walls.

Further Read: 12 Most Luxurious Villas in USA For Your Next Family Vacation

Ready for a thrilling and fun-filled adventure? Explore the largest zoos in the world by planning your next international trip right away. Are you planning your exhilarating vacation by visiting some of the biggest zoos across the globe? To click some amazing pictures, visit these largest zoos in the world with your loved ones.

Disclaimer : TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Frequently Asked Questions About World’s Largest Zoos

Is the Bronx Zoo the largest zoo in the world?

Bronx Zoo is acknowledged as the biggest metropolitan zoo in New York city in the United States. Exploring this zoo will truly amaze you where the natural habitats of the animals will be displayed. The zoo has 4000 different species of animals.

Which country has the oldest operating zoo?

Austria has the oldest operating zoo named Vienna Zoo. The best time to visit the zoo is between October and December from 9 AM to 4:30 PM. The zoo is almost 17 hectares when considered area wise.

Which country has the most zoos?

There are more than 2400 Zoos in the United States which makes it the one of the maximum zoos in the world. San Diego Zoo is one of the famous zoos in the world where there are more than 800 species and over 4000 animals

Which is the largest zoo in India?

The Arignar Anna Zoological Park is considered as the largest zoo in India having more than 2,500 species of flora and fauna. The Zoo is also known as Vandalur Zoo which is located in Chennai, Tamil Nadu and is considered as the first public zoo in India.

Which is the biggest zoo in Europe?

Zoologischer Garten Berlin is the biggest zoo in Europe. The Zoologischer Garten Berlin covers an area of 160 acres thereby making it one of the largest zoos in Europe.

Where is the largest private zoo in the world?

Henry Doorly Zoo in Nebraska is considered as the largest private zoo across the world. World’s largest private zoo is populated with many species of exotic wild animals which roams over the hills considering it as their own native land.

Name the largest zoo in Asia?

Arignar Anna Zoological Park in Chennai is acknowledged as being the largest zoo in Asia. The Zoo is also known as Vandalur Zoo which is situated in Tamil Nadu and is considered as the first public zoo in India.

How many zoos are there in the world?

There are approx. 10,000 zoos across the globe. If you are planning to travel then avail an opportunity to visit one of the 10,000 zoos existing around the world.

Where is the largest zoo in the United States?

The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is the largest zoo in the United States. It is located in Ohio and was opened in 1927. The zoo houses more than 7000 animals of 800 different species. The zoo even organizes summer camps for children to teach them all about animals. You will enjoy the experience of a lifetime.

What is the smallest zoo in the world?

Charles Paddock Zoo in California is probably the smallest zoo in the world. It is located on a 5-acre community and home to a male Malayan tiger named Menderu.

What is a natural habitat zoo?

Natural habitat zoos are suburban zoos that have thousands of animals and are divided by land immersions in their natural habitat. Pandas stay in the region of bamboo forests whereas reindeer stay in the tundra region.

Which is the largest zoo in Australia?

If you are looking for the largest zoo in Australia then you must visit the Australia Zoo. The Australian zoo is famous for safeguarding some of the world’s most endangered species which is located in Brisbane, Queensland.

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The 12 Most Fascinating Zoos In The World

• Wildlife & Nature
• The 12 Most Fascinating Zoos…

Zoos have always been one of the most popular places for a family outing. Almost everyone has visited a zoo at some point in their lives. Both adults and children have long been fascinated by animals; nothing can compare to watching a wild animal up close and live. Gone are the days when a visit to the zoo meant watching an animal through the bars of a cage. Zoos these days have gone the distance to create as natural an environment for these captive animals, making the visit to the zoo even more enriching. The 12 zoos listed below are not only fascinating because of the large size of their area and animal collections but also because of the steps that they are taking towards the conservation of endangered and threatened species.

Singapore Zoo, Singapore

This zoo designed to resemble a typical rainforest is best known for being “cage-free and open.” This doesn’t mean that you’re going to walk straight into a wild beast, but what it means is that the animal enclosures are open and natural. A deep ditch or a moat keeps the animals at a safe distance from humans. The Singapore Zoo is also widely known for its conservation initiatives as 34% of the 300 species in the zoo are endangered. More than 2,400 specimens and over 300 species inhabit the zoo. One of the interesting concepts of the zoo is Jungle Breakfast with Wildlife where you can choose to have breakfast with the orangutans.

Henry Doorly Zoo, United States

Located in Omaha, Nebraska, the zoo is well known for its large enclosures and the number of largest themed spaces in the world. The Lied Jungle which occupies a 24 meters tall building spanning 1.5 acres is one of the largest rainforest exhibits in the world. The Desert Dome which is an important landmark in the zoo is the world’s largest indoor desert. The “Kingdoms of the Night,” located below the Desert Dome, is the world’s largest indoor nocturnal exhibit and swamp. The Cat Complex is also the largest cat breeding facility in North America. With over 900 species there is a lot to see and do at this zoo.

Wellington Zoo, New Zealand

The Wellington Zoo is well known for having a number of firsts. It is famed for being the very first zoo in New Zealand and is also recognized internationally for being the first zoo in the world to be certified as being carboN Zero. The green initiatives that the zoo undertakes have helped reduce its carbon emissions. The zoo which is spread over 32 acres has more than 500 animals and over 100 species, which include some interesting creatures like the beautiful cape barren goose, the blue-tongued skink, and the Derbyan parakeet to name a few.

Barcelona Zoo, Spain

This zoo which is one of the oldest in the world is ranked as one of the top zoos in the country. The zoo had gained worldwide recognition for housing Snoflake the only known albino gorilla who passed away more than a decade ago. There are many endangered or threatened species that make up the 7,500 animals in the zoo. The natural habitats that have been designed for the animals draw many visitors to the zoo. The aquarium is very popular with visitors for its dolphin displays.

Nogeyama Zoo, Japan

Affectionately referred to as “Zoorasia,” the Nogeyama Zoo in Yokohama covers a vast area of 100 acres. The first zoo in the area is located on a hill in a quiet neighborhood and although it is so vast, it can be hard to find. The red pandas are the most popular inhabitants of the zoos 1,000 animals. There are 7 different ecological areas that are designed to mimic the natural habitats of the animals – the Asian Tropical Rainforest, Central Asian Highland, Asian Tropical Forest, Oceanian Grassland, Japanese Countryside, the Amazon Jungle, and the African Tropical Rainforest. Visitors to the zoo are also provided with binoculars so that they can spot the animals easily in the vast area.

National Zoological Gardens, South Africa

The 85-hectare (210 acres) zoo in Pretoria will take up a large chunk of your time with the whopping 3117 specimens that are housed here. Black rhinos, African cape, pygmy hippo, and lowland gorillas are just some of the animals that you will get to see here. It is the largest zoo in the country and the only zoo to be given national status. The aquarium that is also a part of the zoo is the only one in the country. The zoo also has the distinction of being the first zoo to have had a white rhino born in captivity. You can choose to explore the zoo by golf cart, cable car or go for a leisurely walk around the enclosures.

Bronx Zoo, United States

Home to over 4,000 animals and about 650 species, the Bronx Zoo is one of the largest wildlife conservation parks in the United States. Located in New York, the diverse collection of animals and its award-winning exhibitions attract about 2.15 million visitors annually. The popularity of the zoo increased with the docu-series The Zoo produced by Animal Planet in 2017.

Australia Zoo Queensland, Australia

Located in Queensland’s Sunshine Coast and owned by the Irwin family, the zoo became extremely popular because of late Steve Irwin’s documentary series The Crocodile Hunter. The zoo is spread over 1,000 acres of land and has more than 1,200 animals. Various areas are demarcated for specific wildlife like the Tiger Temple, built to resemble the Angkor Wat temple in Cambodia, Elephantasia the largest elephant enclosure in Australia, African Savannah a multi-species replica of the Serengeti ecosystem and Crocoseum the area where the live action takes place. Another great place in the zoo is Bindi’s island, with an incredible three-story treehouse which provides you with a great view of the zoo.

ARTIS Royal Zoo, Netherlands

Located right at the center of Amsterdam, ARTIS Royal Zoo was the first zoo to be established in the Netherlands. The zoo is home to more than 750 different animal species and also has more than 200 types of plants and trees. An impressive butterfly pavilion and Insectarium are popular with visitors, and so is the aquarium which is part of an impressive 19th-century building. Artis Royal is not just a zoo but also has a planetarium and a state-of-the-art museum Micropia which is dedicated to micro-organisms. Some of the 11 Best Hotels in Amsterdam offers excursions to this zoo.

Toronto Zoo, Canada

Spread over a vast area of 710 acres, the Toronto Zoo is Canada’s largest zoo. The 5,000 animals which inhabit the zoo are notable for being the most taxonomically diverse collection of animals displayed at any zoo in the world. They are housed in seven different zoogeographic regions to indicate their origins. The zoo is hailed for its conservation efforts and its successful breeding programs which have resulted in the re-introduction of many species.

Zoologischer Garten Berlin, Germany

The Zoologischer Garten in Berlin is the first zoo to be built in Germany and the most visited zoo in Europe. King Frederick William IV of Prussia helped set up the zoo by donating 850 animals from his own private collection. However, much of the zoo was destroyed after World War II. Of the 4,000 animals that were housed in the zoo before the war, only 91 survived. The zoo was rebuilt and is now spread over 84 acres and has about 20,000 animals which comprise 1,400 species. Some of the highlights of a visit to this zoo are the Hippo House, the World of Birds and the popular sea lion show. The zoo gained widespread recognition for its popular inhabitants Bao Bao, the giant panda and Knut, the polar bear.

Copenhagen Zoo, Denmark

The Copenhagen Zoo is also one of the oldest zoos in Europe, set on 27 acres of land. The more than 4000 species are housed under areas depicting their origins like Africa, South America, Asia, and Tasmania. The Elephant House which was designed by the famous British architect Sir Norman Foster attracts many visitors. The notable features of the Elephant House are the mud baths, sandy expanses, deep water pools and the underfloor heating system which helps keep the animals’ feet warm in the freezing winter. The iconic wooden observation tower of the zoo can be seen from a distance.

Author:  Peter S

A travel blogger and the founder of WOW Travel, Peter is a crazy dreamer with an insatiable desire for adventure who could never settle for an ordinary life or conform with the norm. After visiting more than 50 countries, he aims to travel with a purpose and inspire people to do the same.

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8 Best Zoos In The World To Visit

In the Roman world, wild animals were brought to the arena to be slaughtered in bloody spectacles called “beast hunts.” These poor creatures were brought to Rome from all corners of the empire.

For the people living in the biggest city in the world at the time, it was the only place to see these strange creatures. Luckily, times have changed quite a bit and now we can simply visit a zoo and see animals from all around the world there.

In this article, you’ll discover the best zoos in the world that you can visit to see huge bears and big cats up close!

1. Bronx Zoo

The Bronx Zoo is one of the biggest zoos in the United States and is situated within Bronx Park in New York City. It’s also the largest metropolitan zoo in the US as it covers a total area of 265 acres (107 hectares).

It’s one of the most popular tourist attractions in New York as it welcomes over 2 million visitors every year. It features a wide collection of animals, including a big bear section, a sea lion pool, and a world full of beautiful birds .

2. Berlin Zoological Garden

The Berlin Zoological Garden is both the oldest (opened in 1844) and the most popular zoo in Germany. It’s located in the most famous park in the capital of Germany called the Tiergarten and covers an area of 86.5 acres (35 hectares).

Apart from being the most popular zoo in Germany, it’s also the most-visited zoo in all of Europe with over 3.5 million yearly visitors. Some of its most popular inhabitants are polar bears, giant pandas, and 4 types of great apes. Its aquarium features one of the largest collections of ocean animals in Europe.

3. Smithsonian National Zoological Park

The Smithsonian National Zoological Park is part of the Smithsonian Institution and was founded in the year 1889 in Washington D.C. This makes it one of the oldest zoos in the United States. It’s also one of the few zoos in the country that doesn’t charge to enter.

The zoo is located in Rock Creek Park in the northwest of the city and covers an area of 163 acres (66 hectares). The zoo welcomes nearly 2 million visitors every year and is home to over 2,000 animals, including a wild variety of mammals and reptiles.

4. Singapore Zoo

The Singapore Zoo was originally known as the “Singapore Zoological Gardens” and is located on the shores of the Upper Seletar Reservoir. It covers an area of 69 acres (28 hectares) that consists of dense forests in Singapore.

The zoo is world-famous for displaying animals in a very realistic environment with viewing areas that are hidden from the animal’s sight through barriers or moats. The zoo is also home to the largest collection of orangutans in the world.

5. Schönbrunn Zoo

The Schönbrunn Zoo is locally known as “Tiergarten Schönbrunn” and is situated within the gardens of one of the most famous palaces in the world, Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna. It covers an area of 42 acres (17 hectares) within the palace grounds.

This remarkable zoo was established as a menagerie of the palace in 1752 and is, therefore, the oldest continuously operating zoo in the world. The zoo also features multiple structures dating back to the Baroque era. Some of its most famous residents are a family of giant pandas .

6. Taronga Zoo Sydney

Taronga Zoo is located in Sydney, New South Wales, and is the largest zoo in Australia and covers a total area of 69 acres (28 hectares). It’s situated in the Mosman suburb on the shores of the Sydney Harbour, which means it offers great views of the city’s skyline.

The zoo is the perfect place to discover some of the most famous animals in Australia , including Kangaroos, Emus , and Tasmanian Devils . Apart from the extensive Australian section, it also features 7 different regions with animals from all over the world, making it one of the best zoos in the world to visit!

7. Detroit Zoo

The Detroit Zoo is remarkably located in the city of Royal Oaks, which is situated about 2 miles (3.2 kilometers) north of the Detroit city limits. It’s one of the most popular tourist attractions in Michigan and welcomes over 1.5 million visitors every year.

The zoo is huge as it covers an area of 125 acres (51 hectares) and houses well over 2,000 animals. Some of the most popular species at the zoo are lions , flamingos , and American bison. It also features an immense amphibian center in a wetland referred to as “Amphibiville.”

8. Toronto Zoo

The Toronto Zoo is an enormous zoo located in the city of Toronto, Ontario, Canada. It covers a total area of 710 acres (287 hectares) which makes it the largest zoo in the country. It also features one of the most diverse collections of animals in the world, consisting of over 5,000 animals and over 500 species.

The zoo is divided into 7 different regions and features animals from all around the world. At this zoo, you’ll find Mandarin ducks from Asia, cheetahs from Africa, and cougars and jaguars from the Americas, to name a few of the amazing animals you’ll discover here.

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8 Must-Visit International Zoos For Animal Lovers

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Almost every major city in the world has a zoo. At their best, zoos provide a home to animals in need, bring us closer to the natural world, and inspire appreciation for our cousins in the animal kingdom. Here are some zoos you should definitely hit up if you happen to be in the neighborhood.

1. Wellington Zoo, New Zealand

The Wellington Zoo originally opened in 1906 as New Zealand’s very first zoo. It is dedicated to preserving species that are native to this isolated string of islands. That includes the endangered national bird, the Kiwi, as well as Sumatran tigers, the miniature Sun Bear and other animals from the wider Pacific rim. In total, the zoo covers 32 acre; more than 500 animals call it home. The staff are committed to maintaining comfortable, sustainable habitats for the animals in order to ensure they live as happily as possible. As a result, the zoo is frequently recognized for its use of green technologies and sustainable resources when it comes to animal handling.

2. Berlin Zoo, Germany

The Berlin Zoo and its aquarium are home to over 17,000 individual animals. It is the oldest and still the most-visited zoo in Germany. The zoo was originally created from the personal menagerie of King William IV of Prussia, but many of those animals tragically did not survive World War II. However, a pair of lions, some hyenas, a bull elephant, almost a dozen baboons, and a chimpanzee did survive, and the zoo continued to thrive. More natural enclosures and conservation efforts, as well as gifts from foreign dignitaries, helped turn the zoo into what it has become today: one of the most popular attractions in all of Berlin.

Planning a German excursion? Check out From ‘A’ To ‘Zeppelin’: 15 Things To Do In Germany .

3. Warsaw Zoo, Poland

The Warsaw Zoological Garden is a scientific zoo located along the Vistula River. Covering about 40 acres it’s home to over 4,000 animals from 500 different species. An interesting fact about this zoo is that it once served as a hiding place for Jews and other escapees of the Warsaw Ghetto during the Nazi occupation of World War II. The zookeepers of the time, a husband and wife team named Jan and Antonina ?abi?ska, were responsible for saving the lives of hundreds of Jewish people, and were later recognized by the state of Israel for their good deed. The Zookeeper’s Wife , a movie about the ?abi?skas, was released in 2017.

The Warsaw zoo was temporarily closed during the war, but it reopened in 1949 and has been one of Europe’s most popular zoos ever since.

4. Beijing Zoo, China

The Beijing Zoo was established in 1906 during the late Qing Dynasty. The first animal to occupants were monkeys, parrots, and an emu. It is now home to 950 different species, many of them rare species native to China that you aren’t likely to see anywhere else in the world. This includes giant pandas, Chinese alligators, Chinese great salamanders and South China tigers. More than six million people visit the Beijing Zoo every year. Like many of Beijing’s other parks, the grounds are designed to resemble classic Chinese gardens.

Thinking about visiting China? Check out Fulsome & Forbidden: 11 Things To Discover In China .

5. Philadelphia Zoo, United States

The Philadelphia Zoo was the first public zoo in the United States. It was chartered by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania in 1859, but the American Civil War delayed the opening, pushing it back to 1874. It opened with around 1,000 animals and an original admission price of 25 cents. It is now the home of one of the best primate exhibits in the world. The exhibit includes many rare species, including Silverback gorillas, Sumatran orangutans and gibbons.

6. Basel Zoo, Switzerland

The Zoo Basel , formerly known as the Basel Zoological Garden, is a nonprofit zoo located in downtown Basel. It is both the oldest and largest zoo in Switzerland, hosting over 600 different species. Some of the rare animals you will find living here include the Pygmy hippopotamus, okapi, and Indian rhinos. Basel is known as the site of the first birth of an Indian rhino in captivity. Their rare breeding program is also reputed to be one of the most successful in the world.

Basel, Switzerland. Wikimedia Commons

7. San Diego Zoo, United States

The San Diego Zoo covers 100 acres and shelters around 4,000 individual animals from 650 species. It is known for being a pioneer in creating open-air, cageless exhibits that aim to recreate natural animal habitats as accurately as possible. You can see many exotic creatures here, such as giant pandas, leopards, koalas, elephants, and Chinese alligators. The zoo’s botanical garden has more than 700,000 plants, and you can get a bird’s eye view of the entire park by taking a ride on the Skyfari Aerial Tram. The zoo also hosts a conservation and research institute.

8. Melbourne Zoo, Australia

The Melbourne Zoo , officially known as the Royal Melbourne Zoological Gardens, opened in 1862 and is the oldest zoo in Australia. It was modeled after the London Zoo and is home to over 320 different species. This includes species that are native to Australia as well as their cousins from all around the world. Their Australian exhibit includes kangaroos, koalas, wombats, echidnas and more!

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The Best & Most Fascinating Zoos in the World

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Almost every major tourist city in the world is home to a zoo. However, there are only a rare few doing the miraculous work that the following ten zoo’s and wildlife parks are doing to promote animal conservation, wildlife protection, captive breeding of endangered species, and general public education and awareness around the importance of animal preservation.

1. Wellington Zoo, North Island, New Zealand

New Zealand’s very first zoo is one of the biggest, situated on 32-sprawling acres with more than 500 animals and 100 different species—many of which are endangered species native to New Zealand, including Sumatran tigers, the miniature Sun Bear, the smallest of the bear species. The zoo is also involved with a group in parts of Asia called “Free the Bears”, lions, and many more. The zoo is dedicated to quality, sustainable enclosures for its population, which include solar heating and power, and intimate one-on-one encounters with the animals to educate on the importance of natural preservation.

2. Toronto Zoo, Ontario, Canada

The Toronto Zoo houses 5000 animals from 460 species around the world. This zoo boasts some truly unique exhibits—such as camel rides, sting ray touch tanks. Plus, enclosures for numerous endangered baby additions like Gaur (a type of Indian bison), spider monkeys, Grevy’s Zebras, African Elephants, Greater Kudu (a type of antelope), Western lowland gorillas, and pygmy hippo. Not to mention many native animals to Canada, such as Grizzly bear, Moose, Wood Bison, raccoons, lynx, and cougar.

3. Australia Zoo, Sunshine Coast, Australia

Of course the wildest and most adventurous zoo on earth would have to have been founded by none other than the late Steve Irwin, Australia’s Crocodile Hunter. The zoo encourages hands-on encounters with various snakes, koalas, kangaroos, wombats, tigers, elephants, as well as viewings of over 1000 different animals. Make a reservation if you really want to make the most of your day!

4. Yokohama Zoo, Japan

Japan’s Yokohama Zoo, lovingly referred to as “Zoorasia” was established in 1999. A massive 100 acres in size, this lush, sprawling zoo gives extended room to it’s over 1500 animals from 150 species. In fact, the zoo is largely green in design, consisting of 7 separate ecological areas—the Asian Tropical Forest, Central Asian Highland, Oceanian Grassland, Japanese Countryside, African Tropical Rainforest, and the Amazon Jungle—all designed to mimic natural habitats. Because it’s so large, binoculars are given to each guest upon entrance for optimal spotting of the inhabitants.

5. Welsh Mountain Zoo, Colwyn Bay, North Wales

This 37 acre hillside park was established by naturalist Robert Jackson in 1963. Today, the Zoological Society of Wales has taken the helm and operates the zoo more like conservation lands for native wildlife within. Guests are treated to wooded acres, tree lined paths, and rolling hills teeming with grey heron, grass snakes, and badgers. The must-see exhibits are the modern Eurasian Otter showcase—outfitted with a river, and waterfall for happy otters to slide and frolic about—and that of the California Sea Lions and the Humboldt Penguin.

6. Berlin Zoo, Germany

The Berlin Zoo is the oldest and most-visited zoo in all of Germany. In collaboration with its associated aquarium, the area is made up of 84 acres and home to over 17,000 animals. The zoo was established with the help of King Frederick William IV of Prussia, who populated the zoo with 850 animals from his very own private collection. It suffered massive damage during World War II, when most of the zoo and almost a hundred animals were destroyed. However, the zoo was rebuilt and the survivors—a pair of lions, hyenas, a bull Elephant, almost a dozen baboons, and a chimpanzee—moved into more natural enclosures and tours, one of which became the Animals of the Bible tour, showcasing animals from biblical reference.

7. Philadelphia Zoo, Pennsylvania, USA

America’s very first zoo is the Philadelphia Zoo, established in 1874. Today the zoo enjoys a reputation for breeding endangered species in captivity as well as simulated natural habitats for its animal population. Home to over 1300 animals, this urban zoo boasts one of the most state-of-the-art primate exhibits in the world, PECO Primate Reserve, a 2.50acre, indoor and outdoor areas that houses 10 different primate species—including  gibbons, lowland gorillas, Sumatran Orangutans, lemurs, and Silverbacks. Cat lovers will purr at the sight of Big Cat Falls, which houses 12 endangered species of felines such as African Lions, Amur Tigers, jaguars, Snow Leopards, and cougars. If you don’t get your fill during the day, stay for a rare overnight experience camps for kids!

8. Bronx Zoo, New York City, USA

This rather small zoo in the midst of a metropolis is one of the oldest and best zoos in the USA. So much so that the Wildlife Conservation Society established its veterinarian society here, where primary care is provided for over 15,000 animals located at various zoos across America. The Bronx Zoo is particularly renowned for its animal enrichment programs.  Both educational and hands-on in nature, visitors can witness zoo keepers training and interacting with animals—such as the monkey and tiger population—as well as various feedings, animal behavior, and health care for polar bears and various other resident animals.

9. San Diego Zoo, California, USA

Near San Diego’s downtown, you’ll discover the wonders of the world-renowned San Diego Zoo. This huge 100-acre spread is home to almost 4000 animals from 800 species. The grounds are grassy and hilly so many guests opt for the 35-minute guided bus tour, or they choose to hop on and off at certain exhibits. The zoo’s Elephant Odyssey is by far the most impressive and educational, tracing the species form the Pleistocene era (i.e. wholly mammoth) to modern day. However, nearby you can pop in to visit the giant sloths, bears, lions and jaguars in their simulated natural habitats.

10. Basel Zoo, Switzerland

The Basel Zoo boasts one of the most successful captive breeding programs of endangered species in the world. The uniquely peculiar creatures here are not often seen in other wildlife parks around the world. In fact, the more than 600 species—including snow leopards, cheetah, Indian Rhino, flamingos, pygmy hippopotamuses, Somali Wild Ass, and okapi—would be proud that their zoo is considered among the top 7 by the Zoological Society of London for its successful breeding efforts.

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10 Most Visited And Best Zoos In The World

Posted By: Jubarul Huq September 22, 2017

Almost every big city in the world hosts a zoo – not just for entertainment but also for wildlife protection, animal conservation and breeding of rare animals. Zoos introduce us with many animals or species that we will never be able to watch in person. Zoos are also a great place for research and education on animal welfare. Here are 10 most visited and best zoos in the world.

1. Singapore Zoo – Singapore

Singapore zoo has achieved worldwide fame for its great effort in naturalistic zoo development. Though a series of painstakingly designed pavilions and enclosures, the zoo has been made cage free and animals leap and live out in the open freely. Using moat and glass, it offers a unique interactive experience to visitors like having breakfast with a group of Orangutan in their home! The zoo has invested a lot to recreate the natural abode for animals to conserve wildlife and educate people about the natural ecosystem. Late Steve Irwin (aka the Crocodile Hunter) had praised the zoo a lot for their contribution to protecting wildlife. Overall, it has to be one of the most popular and best zoos in the world.

2. San Diego Zoo – California, USA

Started with abandoned animals from a local exhibit in 1915, San Diego Zoo has come a long way to be another famous cageless zoo that features open-air natural exhibits for animals and birds.  The San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research is a leading zoo-based multidisciplinary research endeavor with over two hundred scientists conducting research all around the world. Approximately 3700 animals live in the zoo which includes Pandas, monkeys, gorillas, elephants, koalas and many more. Thus, it has to be one of the best zoos in the US.

3. Toronto Zoo – Ontario, Canada

Established on an area of 710 acres, Toronto zoo is one of the biggest and best zoos in the world housing over 5000+ animals from 500 species. The zoo is committed to providing a better environment for its animals as well as contributing to the animal research and welfare. Divided into seven zoogeographical areas (Tundra Trek, Indo-Malaya, Africa, Americas, Eurasia, Australasia, Canadian Domain), the animals are displayed in different view levels and their natural environment. The zoo also participates in various animal conservation projects like saving polar bears. The notable residence includes penguins, polar bears, tigers, pygmy hippos and snow leopards.

4. Wellington Zoo- Wellington, New Zealand

Wellington Zoo is the very first zoo of New Zealand which was founded almost 100 years ago. It is nestled in an area of 32 rambling acres with an assortment of 500 animals and 100+ various species around the world. Many of the species are extremely rare such as Sumatran tigers and miniature Sun Bear. Apart from those two, the inhabitant list in welling zoo includes Baboon, Cheetah, Chameleon, Caracal, Emu, Lion, Gibbon and much more. The zoo is a strong supporter of natural preservation and has breeding program partnered with local and international animal conservation bodies for endangered animals. It is also actively involved several animal community conservation groups such as ‘Kereru Discovery Project’ – an initiative for saving the Kereru (the native wood pigeon). All its features make it one of the most visited and best zoos in the world.

5. Basel Zoo – Basel, Switzerland

With 1.8 million delighted visitors each year, Basel zoo is one of the best tourist attractions in Switzerland as well as one of the best zoos in the world. Affectionately called by the locals as “Zolli”, the zoo is quite famous for its dedication and care to the residing animals’ food chart and behavior, which has made it enable to breed a few endangered species like okapi, cheetah, and Indian Rhinos. Other must-see animals in the premise include hippos, flamingos, apes, and snow leopard. The zoo is an active member of approximately 20 national and international organization that works towards animal preservation.

6. Schonbrunn Zoo – Vienna, Austria 

Established as a royal menagerie in 1752, Tiergarten Schönbrunn or “Vienna Zoo’ is one of the oldest and best zoos in the world. It is nestled on the beautiful grounds of famous Schönbrunn Palace. Being one of the pioneers, it has accomplished many firsts in zoo history, including the first elephant birth in a controlled environment in 1906. The zoo is administered quite scientifically to serve the purpose of species conservation as well as the fulfillment of education on nature and animals. Popular animals in the zoo are elephants, sea lions, pandas, and jaguars.

7. Edinburgh Zoo –Edinburgh, Scotland

Previously known as Scottish National Zoological Park, Edinburgh zoo is the first zoo in the world that has been able to breed penguins in a zoo environment.  It’s also the first zoo in Britain that houses giant pandas and koalas.  The zoo is home to almost hundred penguins, and the ‘penguin parade’ (when penguins are released from their enclosure to walk around freely among visitors) is a ‘must-see’ activity in Edinburgh Zoo. Another famous thing to see is “state of the art chimpanzee enclosure’ that has been acclaimed by many experts. Other famous resident includes Asian lions, sun bear, Sumatran tigers, Scottish wild cats etc.

8. Berlin Zoological Garden- Berlin, Germany

As one of the most famous zoo in the Europe and all over the world, the Berlin Zoological garden has a good number of things to talk about. It’s the zoo that housed ‘knut’ – the famous cute polar bear who once received the worldwide attention for being hand raised by its keeper Thomas Dörflein. The park is also known for Bao Bao – the giant oldest panda living in captivity. Apart from the celebrity animals, the zoo is acclaimed by animal rights protectors for its contribution to animal conservation. Notable animals in the zoo are lions, wolves, seals, and elephants.

9. Bronx Zoo- New York, USA

The biggest urban zoo found in the United States, Bronx Zoo is established on a ground of 265 sprawling acres filled with naturalistic animal habitat, high and lowlands and Bronx River flowing through it. The zoo is quite well known for its diverse and large assortment of various species, and Animal Planet aired a documentary series on the zoo. It’s an active member of Wildlife Conservation Society as well as endorsed by Association of Zoos and Aquariums. The list of the famous animal comprises of baboons, big bears, Transvaal lions, South African wild dogs and much more. You must include it as one of the best zoos in America.

 10. National Zoological Garden -Pretoria, South Africa

Famous for its successful breeding programs for both regular and endangered species, the National Zoological Garden of South Africa is a world known research facility dedicated to animal breeding and conservation.  Most of the animals living here are born in the zoo. The garden is established on an area of 210 and home to an overwhelming number of animals – 3117 mammals from 209 species, 1358 birds from 202 species, 3871 fishes from 190 species and many more! The zoo offers sleepover and night tour and close encounters for visitors.

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13 Amazing Zoos Around the World To Visit With Kids

By Author Eileen P. Gunn

Posted on Last updated: October 16, 2023

Zoo: Toronto Zoo

‪zoo: montagne des singes, zoo: hellabrunn, ‪zoo: tierpark hagenbeck, zoo: tiergarten schönbrunn, zoo: aluxes ecopark, ‪‪zoo: belize zoo, zoo: rescate wildlife rescue center, zoo: bandia reserve, zoo: elephant nature park, zoo: singapore zoo, zoo: lone pine koala sanctuary, zoo: taronga zoo, pin it for later.

One of the most fun evenings I’ve ever had while traveling was a visit to the Singapore night zoo (this was pre-kids and probably says as much about Singapore’s night life as it does about the zoo).

Animals are often a lot livelier and busier at night than in the day and the zoo had installed lights that allowed us to see the animals without them seeing us. So it was some of the best animal viewing I’ve ever had at a zoo.

As with so many things, seeing how other countries do their zoos can be illuminating. It can reflect on their culture or at the very least just show that there is more than one way to do things, even a trip to the zoo.

Here are a baker’s dozen zoos and animal parks outside the U.S. that experienced travel writers recommended to me, or that I’ve visited myself. Hope you get some good ideas to make your next vacation pretty wild.

You might also like: • The 12 Coolest Zoos in the U.S . • How To See the Great Barrier Reef With Kids • What To Expect on an African Safari With Kids

13 Must-Visit Zoos Across the Globe

Zoos in canada.

Why It’s Cool: This metropolitan zoo has one of the most diverse collections of species anywhere. Writer ‪Inga Batur says it is “amazing and huge; home to more than 5,000 animals representing over 500 species, with 10 kilometers of walking trails.”

Our Advice : Wear comfortable shoes.

Zoos in Europe

Where: Kintzheim, Alsace, France

Why It’s Cool: Another single-animal reserve, this one offers a guided walk through a forest that’s home to 200 barbary macaques. Blogger Mark Wyld appreciates that, “Some of the monkeys are returned to their natural habitat in north Africa every year.”

Where: Munich, Germany

Why It’s Cool: Founded in 1911, this was first zoo where animals were organized in complex communities based on their geographic habitat.

Family travel blogger ‪Inga Batur says it’s her family’s favorite zoo. “ I was impressed by its size, number of different animals and really nice looking enclosures,” she says. “I remember the bears, with their own little stream and plenty of greenery.”

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Where: Hamburg

Why it’s Cool : Travel writer Julie Furst Henning says she likes this zoo because “Many of the exhibits are open air with animals roaming. There’s a fantastic playground for kids and also a massive exhibit for penguins/seals/walruses we really liked.”

Where: Vienna, Austria

Why It’s Cool: Located amid the gardens of Schönbrunn Palace, this zoo began in 1752 as the imperial menagerie.

‪Stefanie Whelchel Cornwall recalls, “The architecture throughout the zoo is incredible. My family couldn’t believe how beautiful the enclosures were, and how regal they looked. Since it is on Palace grounds it shouldn’t be a surprise.”

Zoos in Latin America

Where: Palenque, Chiapas, Mexico

Why It’s Cool: Blogger Aimee Lynch likes that “the animals are local species that have been rescued and cannot be returned to the wild; a visit is very educational. They have a breeding program for scarlet macaws and the released wild babies tend to hang around and fly overhead.”

Tip: For something a little different, try a nocturnal tour of the park

Where: About 30 miles west of Belize City.

Why It’s Cool: Travel bloggers Stacey-jean Inion and Terumi Johnson both recommend this zoo and it’s easy to see why; it’s a slice of wild Belize tamed just enough to be visitor friendly.

It’s jungly native vegetation is left largely to its own devices and all of its 125 or so animals are native to Belize.

Tip: To extend your experience stay at the adjacent Jungle Lodge . Guests can birdwatch, go canoeing or take a nighttime tour of the zoo.

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Where: 20 miles Northwest of San Jose, Costa Rica

Why It’s Cool: Rescate Wildlife Rescue Center is one of largest and one of the few legitimate rescue centers in Costa Rica. Visitors get to see animals that can’t be released back into nature either because they are wounded or too used to human contact.

You’ll see a wide range of animals and birds, most but not all indigenous to Costa Rica. It’s an easy way to see local wildlife with little kids and a sure way to get a glmpse of sloths and some other animals that can be hard to spot in the wild.

The many animals they rehabilitate and the few they try to breed for a life in the wild are largely hidden from view so they don’t get used to people. A visit to Rescate Wildlife supports these efforts.

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Zoos in Africa

Where: Sindia, Petite Cote, Senegal Why It’s Cool: This park is more than a zoo less than a safari.

We loved that the property was big enough to give a sense that these animals were indeed wild and roaming free (fingers should remain in the jeep, please), but the density of animals was high enough that good viewing was guaranteed.

Tiny Travel thrilled at seeing black rhinos, wart hogs, giraffes, gazelles and much more close up than we ever have at traditional zoos, and without glass between us and them.

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Zoos in Asia

Where : Chiang Mai, Thailand

Why it’s Cool : Michele Chan-Thomson loves this single-animal experience because ‪”you get to feed and bathe the elephants at this rescue sanctuary.”

Where: Singapore

Why It’s Cool: Terumi Johnson agrees with me that this zoo is awesome. In addition to the night zoo, the unique River Safari shows wildlife that lives around seven world rivers in an exhibit that is part zoo, part aquarium.

Kids like the Zoo breakfast with a chance to visit with Orangutans and hold smaller animals. And the sizable water play area is a welcome extra given Singapore’s heat and humidity.

Zoos in Australia

Where: Brisbane, Australia

Why It’s Cool: Travel blogger ‪Mary Penafiel Solio and family blogger Sara Wellensiek say they love this zoo.

Solio explains, “You can feed kangaroos and wallabies and see all other animal wildlife native to Australia. It’s also one of the few places one can cuddle a koala.”

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Where: Sydney, Australia

Why It’s Cool: This enormous zoo is also celebrating its centennial this year. Blogger Bethaney Davies says “The have all the usual animals that kids love and lots of Aussie specialties like Koalas.”

She adds, “The ferry trip across the Sydney Harbour is worth a visit. And the whole time you’re walking around the zoo you get amazing views of Sydney, the opera house and Harbour Bridge.

Blogger ‪Mary Hickcox says, “It’s one of the nicest zoos I’ve ever been to.”

The 15 Must-Visit Zoos in Europe for Your Bucketlist: A Comprehensive Guide

• Post author: David Lee
• Post last modified: August 9, 2023

Europe is home to some of the world’s most incredible zoos, showcasing a vast array of animals from all corners of the globe. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a family with young children, or simply looking for a unique experience, Europe’s zoos offer something for everyone. From the world-renowned Berlin Zoo, with its extensive collection of species, to the award-winning Chester Zoo in England, Europe’s zoos are a must-visit for any animal lover.

With so many zoos to choose from, it can be challenging to decide which ones to include on your bucket list. To make things easier, we’ve compiled a list of the 15 must-visit zoos in Europe that are sure to leave you amazed. From the sprawling Pairi Daiza in Belgium, which is home to over 7,000 animals, to the innovative Zoo de la Flèche in France, which offers visitors a unique perspective on animal behavior, these zoos are all worth a visit. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready for an unforgettable journey through Europe’s most incredible zoos.

Table of Contents

Top 3 Must-Visit Zoos in Europe

Europe is home to some of the world’s most stunning and renowned zoos, making it a must-visit destination for animal lovers. Here are the top three must-visit zoos in Europe that you should add to your bucket list.

1. Chester Zoo, UK

Chester Zoo, located in the UK, is one of the best zoos in Europe, and for a good reason. It is home to over 27,000 animals from 500 different species, including some of the rarest and endangered species in the world. The zoo’s commitment to conservation and animal welfare is evident in the way they care for their animals and their extensive conservation programs. Visitors can enjoy a boat trip along the river, explore the Zoo’s various habitats, and attend the Discover Rainforests talk.

2. Pairi Daiza, Belgium

Pairi Daiza in Belgium is a must-visit zoo for anyone who loves animals and nature. The zoo is home to over 7,000 animals from 500 different species, including some of the most endangered animals in the world. Pairi Daiza’s dedication to wildlife conservation and animal welfare is evident in the way they care for their animals and their extensive breeding programs. Visitors can explore the zoo’s various habitats, including the African savannah, the Indonesian jungle, and the Chinese gardens.

3. Berlin Zoo, Germany

Berlin Zoo, located in Germany, is one of the oldest and most famous zoos in Europe. It is home to over 20,000 animals from 1,500 different species, including some of the rarest and endangered species in the world. The zoo’s commitment to conservation and animal welfare is evident in the way they care for their animals and their extensive breeding programs. Visitors can explore the zoo’s various habitats, including the African savannah, the Arctic tundra, and the tropical rainforest.

In conclusion, these are the top three must-visit zoos in Europe that you should add to your bucket list. These zoos offer an unforgettable experience, allowing visitors to learn more about the world’s wildlife and conservation efforts while enjoying a fun day out.

Zoos in Western Europe

If you’re planning a trip to Europe and are an animal lover, then you must visit some of the best zoos in the continent. Western Europe is home to some of the most impressive and well-maintained zoos in the world, offering a unique opportunity to see animals from all over the globe. Here are some of the best zoos in Western Europe that you should add to your bucket list:

France is known for its stunning architecture, art collections, and delicious cuisine, but it’s also home to some of the best zoos in Europe. The most famous zoo in France is the ZooParc de Beauval, which is located in the Loire Valley and is home to over 10,000 animals. The zoo is particularly known for its giant pandas, but it also has a wide range of other animals, including lions, tigers, and elephants.

England is famous for its castles, Christmas shows, and iconic landmarks such as Big Ben and Stonehenge. But it’s also home to some of the best zoos in Europe. One of the most popular zoos in England is the Chester Zoo, which is home to over 27,000 animals and is spread across 128 acres. The zoo is particularly known for its conservation efforts and is home to rare and endangered species such as the Sumatran orangutan and the Rothschild’s giraffe.

Belgium is known for its delicious chocolate, waffles, and fries, but it’s also home to some of the best zoos in Europe. One of the most famous zoos in Belgium is Pairi Daiza, which is located in the province of Hainaut. The zoo is particularly known for its immersive exhibits, including a recreated Indonesian village and a Chinese garden. It’s also home to over 7,000 animals, including giant pandas, elephants, and tigers.

Netherlands

The Netherlands is famous for its picturesque canals, the vibrant city of Amsterdam, and its iconic windmills. But it’s also home to some of the best zoos in Europe. One of the most popular zoos in the Netherlands is the Rotterdam Zoo, which is home to over 10,000 animals and is spread across 65 acres. The zoo is particularly known for its Oceanium exhibit, which features a massive aquarium and a recreated coral reef.

Spain is known for its stunning architecture, including the Sagrada Familia and the Alhambra, as well as its delicious cuisine and vibrant culture. But it’s also home to some of the best zoos in Europe. One of the most famous zoos in Spain is the Bioparc Valencia, which is located in the city of Valencia. The zoo is particularly known for its immersive exhibits, which recreate the habitats of animals from Africa, Asia, and South America.

Italy is famous for its gelato, art collections, and iconic landmarks such as the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the Colosseum, and the Trevi Fountain. But it’s also home to some of the best zoos in Europe. One of the most popular zoos in Italy is the Rome Bioparco, which is located in the heart of Rome and is home to over 1,000 animals. The zoo is particularly known for its conservation efforts and is home to rare and endangered species such as the Amur leopard and the red panda.

In conclusion, Western Europe is home to some of the best zoos in the world, and visiting them is an unforgettable experience for animal lovers. Whether you’re in France, England, Belgium, the Netherlands, Spain, or Italy, you’re sure to find a zoo that will amaze and inspire you.

Zoos in Eastern Europe

If you’re looking for a unique zoo experience, Eastern Europe has plenty of options to choose from. Here are some of the best zoos to visit in the region.

Czech Republic

The Prague Zoo is one of the most popular attractions in the city, with over 1.4 million visitors annually. It is home to over 6,000 animals from 650 species, including rare and endangered species such as the Przewalski’s horse, the okapi, and the Komodo dragon. The zoo is located in a beautiful natural setting, with stunning views of the city and the Vltava River.

The Warsaw Zoo is one of the oldest and largest zoos in Poland, with over 4,000 animals from 500 species. It is known for its breeding programs for endangered species, such as the European bison, the Indian rhinoceros, and the Sumatran tiger. The zoo is also home to a number of historic buildings and monuments, including the Palace of Culture and Science, the Royal Castle, and the Old Town.

The Budapest Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in Europe, dating back to 1866. It is home to over 1,000 animals from 200 species, including rare and endangered species such as the giant otter, the red panda, and the Amur leopard. The zoo is located in the heart of the city, next to the famous Széchenyi Thermal Bath and the Vajdahunyad Castle.

The Bucharest Zoo is one of the largest zoos in Eastern Europe, with over 5,000 animals from 500 species. It is known for its breeding programs for endangered species, such as the European bison, the lynx, and the brown bear. The zoo is located in the middle of the city, next to the Carol Park and the Tineretului Park.

The Tallinn Zoo is one of the most modern and innovative zoos in Europe, with over 10,000 animals from 500 species. It is known for its unique and interactive exhibits, such as the “Walk on the Treetops” and the “Penguin Beach”. The zoo is located in a beautiful natural setting, with stunning views of the Baltic Sea and the city of Tallinn.

Whether you’re visiting Prague, Warsaw, Budapest, Bucharest, or Tallinn, these Eastern European zoos are definitely worth a visit. With their unique exhibits, beautiful architecture, and stunning natural settings, they offer a truly unforgettable experience for animal lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Zoos with Unique Animal Exhibits

If you’re looking for a unique zoo experience, there are plenty of options across Europe. Here are five zoos with animal exhibits that are sure to impress.

Chester Zoo

Chester Zoo, located in the UK, is home to over 21,000 animals across 125 acres. One of the highlights of the zoo is the Islands exhibit, which features animals from six different Southeast Asian islands. Visitors can see Sumatran tigers, orangutans, and even Komodo dragons. The zoo is also known for its conservation efforts, particularly for its work with the endangered Rothschild’s giraffe.

Prague Zoo, located in the Czech Republic, is the fifth-best zoo in the world according to TripAdvisor. One of the zoo’s most unique exhibits is the Indonesian Jungle, which features a variety of animals from Indonesia, including orangutans, tigers, and Komodo dragons. The zoo is also home to a large number of lemurs, including the critically endangered black-and-white ruffed lemur.

Vienna Zoo, located in Austria, is the oldest zoo in the world and is home to over 700 species of animals. One of the zoo’s most popular exhibits is the Giant Panda Habitat, which is home to two giant pandas, Yang Yang and Long Hui. The zoo is also known for its conservation efforts, particularly for its work with the endangered African elephant.

Paignton Zoo

Paignton Zoo, located in the UK, is home to over 2,000 animals across 80 acres. One of the zoo’s most unique exhibits is the Meerkat and Prairie Dog exhibit, where visitors can see meerkats and prairie dogs living together in a recreated African savannah. The zoo is also known for its conservation efforts, particularly for its work with the endangered Asiatic lion.

Loro Parque

Loro Parque, located in Spain, is home to over 10,000 animals across 33 acres. One of the zoo’s most popular exhibits is the Penguin Planet, which is home to four different species of penguins. The zoo is also known for its conservation efforts, particularly for its work with the endangered Lear’s macaw.

Overall, these zoos offer unique animal exhibits that are sure to impress visitors. Whether you’re interested in pandas, lions, lemurs, tigers, or penguins, there’s a zoo in Europe that has something for you.

Zoos with Educational Programs and Research

Many zoos in Europe offer educational programs and opportunities for visitors to learn about the animals they are seeing. Some zoos even have their own research programs to further study and understand the animals in their care.

One such zoo is the Smithsonian’s National Zoo in Washington D.C. They offer a variety of educational programs for visitors of all ages, including school groups and families. Their Conservation Classroom program allows visitors to learn about animals, habitats, and conservation through engaging virtual programs with a Zoo educator. They also have a Teacher Advisory Council for professional development opportunities.

The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) also has a Research and Technology Committee to help members engage in, conduct, and apply high-quality scientific research. They have developed several resources to support AZA engagement in priority research, including a webpage and committee members to contact.

Vienna Zoo in Austria is another zoo with a strong focus on education and research. They offer a variety of educational programs for school groups, families, and adults, including guided tours and workshops. They also have their own research center, the Research Institute for Wildlife Ecology, where they conduct research on various animal species.

Other zoos with educational programs and research include Basel Zoo in Switzerland, Chester Zoo in England, and Paignton Zoo in England. These zoos offer a range of educational programs and workshops for visitors, as well as conducting their own research on various animal species.

Overall, visiting a zoo with educational programs and research can be a great way to learn about animals and their habitats, as well as support ongoing research efforts.

Zoos with Family-Friendly Activities

When it comes to visiting zoos with your family, it’s important to choose a destination that offers plenty of activities for both children and adults. Luckily, many of the top zoos in Europe have a variety of family-friendly activities to keep everyone entertained.

One great example is the Berlin Zoo in Germany, which has a large playground area for children to enjoy. The playground is conveniently located near the zoo’s entrance, so you can let your kids have some fun before exploring the animal exhibits. Plus, the zoo offers a variety of educational programs and workshops for kids of all ages, making it a great destination for a family trip.

Another zoo that’s perfect for families is the Madrid Zoo Aquarium in Spain. In addition to its impressive collection of animals, the zoo has a bike rental service that allows visitors to explore the park on two wheels. And if you’re looking for a sweet treat, be sure to try the churros at one of the zoo’s many snack bars.

For families visiting the Netherlands, the Rotterdam Zoo is a must-visit destination. The zoo has a variety of interactive exhibits that allow visitors to get up close and personal with the animals, including a walk-through aviary and a butterfly garden. Plus, the zoo offers a range of educational programs and activities for kids, making it a great place to learn about wildlife.

Overall, these zoos offer a range of family-friendly activities that are sure to keep everyone entertained. Whether you’re looking for a playground, educational programs, or a tasty snack, these destinations have something for everyone.

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Top 10 Best Zoos In The World: Must-Visit Places For Animal Lovers

Almost every major city in the world has a zoological park for animal conservation, protection, and of course, entertainment. They house animals that we might never see in our lifetime without going to a zoo. Most zoos are also important centers for research. Here we take a look at the top 10 best zoos in the world where wonderful and rare wildlife brings delight to visitors.

Top 10 best zoos in the world

10- schonbrunn zoo, vienna, austria.

This is arguably the oldest zoo in the world. It was built on the grounds of Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna in 1752. The Vienna Zoo has many firsts to its name. The first elephant birth in a controlled environment took place here in 1906. Though the zoo is full of beautiful giraffes, elephants, hippos , sea lions, jaguars, and other animals, its biggest attraction is the baby panda. The zoo is divided into several geographical regions to provide microenvironments and unique habitats for different species of animals. Undoubtedly, one of the top 10 best zoos in the world.

9- Edinburgh Zoo, Edinburgh, Scotland

The Edinburgh Zoo opened in 1913. It has many unique attractions including the UK’s only giant pandas (taken on loan from China). It is the world’s first zoo to breed penguins in a controlled environment. Edinburgh Zoo is also the first in the UK to house koalas. If you ever visit this place, don’t miss the ‘penguin parade’ where penguins are released to walk around among visitors.

8- National Zoological Gardens, Pretoria, South Africa

Also known as the Pretoria Zoo, it was founded more than a century ago. Spread over 216 acres, this zoo is on both sides of the Apies River. Visitors have to cross suspension bridges to go from one side to another. It houses smaller primates, marmosets, chimpanzees , lemurs, and waterbirds. It has more than 700 types of animals. The zoo is well known for its breeding programs for endangered species .

7- Taronga Zoo, Sydney, Australia

This award-winning zoo offers one of the best visitor experiences in the world with the stunning views of the Opera House and Sydney Harbor. It is roughly 12 minutes by ferry from Sydney . It’s home to more than 4,000 koalas, giraffes, reptiles, snow leopards, meerkats, and other animals. It also houses dozens of imported animals.

6- Wellington Zoo, New Zealand

This is the oldest zoo in New Zealand. Spread over 32 acres, it’s not as big as many others in the list, but it’s home to extremely rare animals. You’ll spot Sumatran tigers, miniature Sun Bear, caracal, gibbon, baboon, kereru, and many others. The zoo runs many breeding programs for endangered animals in collaboration with several local and international conservation groups.

5- Berlin Zoological Garden, Germany

The Berlin Zoo opened back in 1844 and has more than 1,500 species of animals from around the world. It also boasts the largest aquarium in the world. The Berlin Zoo is home to Bao Bao – the oldest living giant panda – and the famous “knut” polar bear. You’ll spot a wide variety of animals such as elephants, seals, lions, piranhas, sharks, and others. The zoo was almost completely destroyed and more than 90% animals were killed during the Second World War. Today it’s the most visited zoo in entire Europe.

4- Beijing Zoo

The Beijing Zoo was established by the Qing dynasty in 1906. At its beginning,  the zoo had only two parrots, a blind emu, and a dozen monkeys. Today it has become the largest zoo in China, spread over 220 acres of land. It’s home to more than 14,500 animals of about 950 different species. The Beijing Zoo focuses on rare Chinese animals such as giant pandas , Chinese alligators, South China tigers, Tibetan gazelles, and Chinese great salamander. It attracts more than six million visitors every year.

3- Bronx Zoo, New York, USA

The Bronx Zoo in New York is spread over 265 acres, and has the Bronx river flowing through it. It’s the first zoo in the Western Hemisphere to host snow leopards. Since its inception, it has been at the forefront of wildlife conservation. The Animal Planet has done a documentary on this zoo. Walking around the zoo, you’ll spot South African wild dogs, baboons, Transvaal lions, big bears, and many other animals in their naturalistic habitat. It attracts millions of visitors every year.

2- Singapore Zoo

The 64-acre Singapore Zoo has nearly 3,000 animals representing 300 different species. Instead of keeping animals in cages, this zoo has recreated habitats that feel natural to the species. Visitors can watch them through deep moats, elevated platforms, glass observatories, and underwater galleries. Through moat and glass, it offers visitors unique experiences.

1- San Diego Zoo

The San Diego Zoo tops our list of the best zoos in the world. The century-old zoo opened with abandoned animals in 1915. Visitors can take the Skyfari Aerial Tram to see all the animals from above in the air. It is home to animals such as Chinese alligators, elephants, pandas, koalas, and more. It is also at the forefront of wildlife conservation and protection.

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8 Must Visit Zoos around the World ...

Neecey 6 Comments Share

The World’s Best Zoos are not always the biggest, but are the ones that have managed to almost completely replicate the natural environment that the animals that live in zoos all over the world, come from. The world’s best zoos are sophisticated and exceptionally well run, and not just a platform for plucking animals from the comfort of their own natural habitats to be on display like a road show, which perhaps they may have acquired a reputation for doing many, many years ago. The world’s best zoos allow their animals to roam freely and behave exactly as they would do in the wild, with plenty of space to shelter, sleep and breed. Here is a list of 8 Must Visit Zoos Around the World.

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National Zoological Gardens, South Africa

For those of you looking for an ultimate zoo experience, look no further than the National Zoological Gardens of South Africa. Situated in the hills of Pretoria, the biggest zoo in all of South Africa is home to more than 2500 different species of wild animals. A true testament to the sophistication, knowledge and experience of the staff who work at and run the zoo, is the fact that almost every single one of the animals who live at the zoo today, have been born and bred there. Boasting the single largest natural aquarium in all of South Africa itself, there is also a fascinating reptile park and incredible collective of exotic and endangered trees.

Animal Kingdom, Orlando, Florida, USA

Taking into account that this may not be one of the world’s largest zoos, and pretty much a commercial zoo as part of the Disney Land Theme Park collection in Orlando, the park is home to more than 1500 exotic animals, never mind the thousands of incredible bird life and species of fish as well! Full time zoo keepers take the subject of conservation very seriously and work very hard to constantly promote nature conservation and look after the individual needs of each specific animal. The dedicated keepers ensure that the park as is close to a natural habitat as is possible, with the least human presence they can provide.

Basel Zoo, Switzerland

Who would have thought that one of the world’s biggest zoos could be found in Switzerland of all places, normally famous for impeccably clean cities, snow capped mountains, cuckoo clocks and let’s not forget the best chocolate in the world. One of the world’s paramount zoo experiences is tucked away in Switzerland. Not only is this known as one of the best zoos in the world, it is also the second largest most popular tourist attraction in the whole of Switzerland itself! With more than 6000 animals, such as the elusive Somalian Wild Donkey and the quaint dwarf hippopotami, it is also one of the oldest zoos open today, as the doors were originally opened in 1874.

Beauval Zoo, France

Starting out life as an aviary for more than a whopping 2000 different species of birds, the Beauval Zoo in France has been gaining popularity every day since they opened their doors in the 1980’s. It took 10 years before any other animals were included into the zoo and introduced as part of their large family of animals, which has now grown to more than 4000. The hugely popular pair of white tigers, Gorby and Raisa, is the zoos biggest draw card, and with stiff competition from the gorgeous manatee twins, Quito and Luna, you can be sure that this is definitely one of the world’s top zoos.

Bronx Zoo, New York City

If you are looking for the one of the world’s best zoos in the greater metropolitan area in New York City, then look no further than Bronx Zoo. With more than 250 acres of pristine, natural ecosystem, it provides homes more than 4000 different animals. Exotic, endangered and rare species of animals are all found here, including Siberian Tigers and the unusual hissing cockroaches and famous lemurs all the way from Madagascar. On the tour through the zoo, a must see is the Congo Gorilla Forest, more than 6.5 acres of natural bush and forestry, or taken an African Safari Adventure before heading on down to Tiger Mountain for a meet and greet with the Siberian Tigers.

If you have a harem of 40 women, you never get to know any of them very well.

Berlin Zoological Garden, Germany

An architectural feat of genius, the Berlin Zoological Garden originally opened its doors in the late 1800’s and has earned its reputation as an historical landmark. After surviving World War II, but not completely, it was restored to its former glory after the war had ended. The incredible structures that provides the home to the animals that live at this world famous zoo, is almost as fascinating as the animals themselves. One of the reasons it is one of the world’s premier zoos, is because of the rare and endangered species that are successfully bred and whom live there.

Schonbrunner Zoo, Austria

Without a doubt, the Schonbrunner Zoo in Austria is the oldest zoo in the world. Founded in the late 1700’s, this glorious zoo experience will take you to the rainforests of the world in the Rainforest house and the Arctic region of the world in the Arctic Polarium. In late 2007 the mother polar bear gave birth to two gorgeous polar bear cubs and showed them off to the world finally in the spring of 2008; although a reluctant star, the bears make regular appearances to visitors.

Smithsonian National Zoological Park, Washington, DC

Last, but definitely not least on the list of the best zoos in the world, is the Smithsonian National Zoological Park in Washington DC. In the middle of Rock Creek Park, the ever expanding 400 species brings a massive total of more than 2000 animals. The absolutely brilliant part is that it doesn’t cost a thing, and regular visits are completely free! Kids, and adrenalin junkie adults, will love the Snore and Roar tour, where you are taken on a night time tour around the zoo, and you get to camp out at the zoo overnight!

All of these fantastic zoos around the world are an integral educational tool, encouraging, promoting and educating our nations and our youth about the importance and imperativeness of conservation, ecosystems and looking after our planet. The best zoos in the world, provide an exceptional platform in educating the public on respect for the environment and the animals, how ecosystems run and what impact man has on the delicate balance in nature. In years gone by, many zoos around the world were not run properly, however it is no longer the case and many endangered and rare species have benefited from the care and protection of captivity. Even though this is a list of just 8 Must Visit Zoos Around the World, which ones would be your favourite one to visit?

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Where Thoughts and Opinions Converge

Schonbrunner Zoo in Austria is really fabulous. I visited it during a trip last spring. Absolute must!

Taronga Zoo, Sydney and Singapore Zoo! Both truly incredible!

Don't visit thw basel zoo, go to the zurich zoo instead! It's bigger (animal friendlier) and very beautiful.

San Diego Zoo

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Animals Around the Globe

Top 10 Zoos to Visit in the US

Posted: December 11, 2023 | Last updated: December 11, 2023

San Diego Zoo, California

Renowned for its innovative habitats and commitment to conservation, the San Diego Zoo is a world-class destination. From giant pandas to African elephants, it houses over 3,500 animals representing various species.

Smithsonian’s National Zoo, Washington, D.C.

Nestled in the nation’s capital, the National Zoo is a haven for biodiversity. Home to the iconic giant pandas, it features exhibits dedicated to wildlife conservation and research.

Bronx Zoo, New York

As one of the largest metropolitan zoos, the Bronx Zoo offers a captivating journey through various exhibits, including JungleWorld and the Congo Gorilla Forest, providing an immersive experience for visitors.

Oregon Zoo, Oregon

Located in the lush landscape of Portland, the Oregon Zoo is celebrated for its conservation efforts and engaging exhibits. Explore the Elephant Lands and Polar Passage to witness the wonders of the animal kingdom.

Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, Ohio

Home to renowned zookeeper Jack Hanna, the Columbus Zoo is a delightful destination featuring a vast array of animals. Visitors can experience the Heart of Africa exhibit and the Asia Quest adventure.

Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, Nebraska

Recognized for its world-class exhibits, the Henry Doorly Zoo boasts the largest indoor desert and nocturnal exhibits. The Scott Aquarium provides a mesmerizing underwater journey into marine life.

Philadelphia Zoo, Pennsylvania

America’s first zoo, the Philadelphia Zoo is steeped in history and offers a diverse collection of animals. From rare Amur tigers to playful primates , it continues to captivate visitors of all ages.

Houston Zoo, Texas

Situated in the heart of Houston, this zoo is a dynamic hub for wildlife conservation and education. The African Forest exhibit and the Gorilla Habitat provide immersive experiences with some of the world’s most fascinating creatures.

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, Colorado

Perched on the slopes of Cheyenne Mountain, this zoo offers breathtaking views along with its exceptional animal exhibits. The Encounter Africa exhibit allows visitors to hand-feed giraffes, creating a truly unique experience.

Zoo Miami, Florida

Known for its tropical setting, Zoo Miami is the only zoo in the continental US with a subtropical climate. The Amazon and Beyond exhibit and the Asian River Life experience transport visitors to diverse ecosystems around the globe.

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