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Antwerp Zoo
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wildlife
The Antwerp Zoo, located adjacent to the magnificent Central Station, is one of the oldest and most renowned scientific zoos in the world. Established on July 21, 1843, it is managed by the Royal Zoological Society of Antwerp. Spanning approximately 10 hectares, the park is famous for its historic architecture, including the Egyptian Temple built in 1856 and the Moorish Aviary. These structures are protected monuments and give the park a unique 19th-century atmosphere. Today, the zoo houses over 5,000 animals across 950 species and plays a leading role in international breeding programs for endangered species such as okapis and bonobos. In recent decades, the facility has undergone extensive modernization to provide more naturalistic habitats, including the Reef Aquarium and the 'Vriesland' enclosure for penguins. Despite its central urban location, the zoo serves as a green oasis and a major center for environmental education and conservation research. It elegantly combines Victorian charm with the latest standards in animal welfare, making it a cornerstone of Belgian cultural heritage.
- Location: Belgium
- Top sights: Moerasvolière · Aziatische volière · Europese, Afrikaanse en Amerikaanse volière
- Nearby: Mortsel (6 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 3 | 3 | 6 | 10 | 13 | 17 | 19 | 18 | 15 | 11 | 7 | 3 |
| Rain mm | 69 | 61 | 55 | 38 | 59 | 63 | 75 | 79 | 55 | 63 | 69 | 78 |
📋 Practical info
Best season
The zoo is open year-round, but spring and autumn are more pleasant for visits. Outdoor enclosures are best viewed then.
Best time of day
Early morning is when animals are most active and enclosures are less crowded. Feeding times also offer great viewing opportunities.
Etiquette
Do not feed the animals - the zoo provides special food. Keep proper distance from enclosures and do not climb fences.
What to bring
Comfortable shoes are advisable as the zoo is spacious. A camera with a telephoto lens is worth it for good animal photos.
Getting there
The zoo is right next to Antwerp Central Station, easily reachable by train, bus, or tram. Parking in the area is limited.
What to expect
Some animals sleep or hide - wait a bit, they usually move soon. Especially on hot days, many are in shady corners.
Geography
Facts
- The zoo was officially opened on July 21, 1843.
- The entire park spans a total area of 10 hectares.
- The Egyptian Temple was completed and opened in 1856.
- More than 950 distinct animal species are housed at the site.
- The zoo's aquarium has been in operation since 1911.
- The zoo welcomes over one million visitors annually.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Antwerp Zoo (10)
Zoo Antwerpen
Antwerp Zoo, of the Royal Zoological Society of Antwerp (KMDA) in Belgium.
Maleise Tapir
Malayan tapir at Antwerp Zoo in Belgium.
Briluil
Spectacled owl at Antwerp Zoo in Belgium, a viewpoint.
Queen Elisabeth Hall
Building in Antwerp, Belgium, a concert hall.
Sint-Dominicuskerk⛪ church
Church in Antwerp, Belgium, a place of worship.
Extra City Kunsthal🏛 museum
Museum in Belgium, a venue for contemporary art.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where is the Antwerp Zoo located?
It is located right next to the Antwerp-Centraal main train station.
Is it one of the oldest zoos in the world?
Yes, it was founded in 1843 and is one of the oldest and most famous zoos.
Are there indoor areas for rainy days?
Yes, there are many historical buildings and aquariums that can be visited indoors.
How much time should I plan for the visit?
You should plan for about 3 to 4 hours to see everything comfortably.
Are there lockers for luggage?
Yes, there are lockers available at the zoo entrance.
Antwerp Zoo: where is it located?
Antwerp Zoo is located in Belgium.
Antwerp Zoo: what is there to see?
Highlights include Moerasvolière, Aziatische volière, Europese, Afrikaanse en Amerikaanse volière.
Antwerp Zoo: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Antwerp Zoo: why is it worth visiting?
The Antwerp Zoo, located adjacent to the magnificent Central Station, is one of the oldest and most renowned scientific zoos in the world.
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