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Planckendael

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

wildlife

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Planckendael Zoo, located in Muizen near Mechelen, is a sweeping 46-hectare landscape park originally acquired in 1956 as a spacious extension for the historic Antwerp Zoo. Planckendael is distinguished by its innovative continent-based layout, Europe, Africa, America, Oceania, and Asia, providing animals with vast, naturalistic habitats that encourage natural behaviors. The park is a vital global player in the conservation of highly endangered species, notably managing highly successful breeding programs for bonobos, Asian lions, and Przewalski's horses. Furthermore, Planckendael is famous for its massive colony of free-flying white storks, which nest high in the park's trees every spring, serving as the cornerstone for the successful reintroduction of the species in Flanders. Education is seamlessly integrated into the visitor experience through extensive adventure trails, rope bridges through the canopy, and interactive stations designed to teach children about ecology. Planckendael successfully harmonizes outdoor recreation with serious wildlife conservation and dynamic environmental education.

Location: Belgium
Nearby: Vilvoorde (11 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

Worth visiting year-round, but spring and autumn are the most pleasant seasons with mild temperatures and active animals. In summer, the water playgrounds for children are open, making the visit more family-friendly.

🌅

Best time of day

Feedings of seals and sea lions are fixed events that happen several times a day - check the times in advance. In the morning, predators are often especially agile, while in the afternoon elephants and giraffes are active.

📜

Etiquette

Entering the enclosures is not allowed, and always keep distance from the animals. Noise and sudden movements should be avoided so the animals do not get stressed.

🎒

What to bring

Binoculars can help to better observe animals in the spacious enclosures. Comfortable clothing and good shoes are beneficial as the park is large and requires a lot of walking.

🧭

Getting there

Planckendael is located near Mechelen and accessible by car via the A1/E19. The park has its own railway station, so travel by train is also convenient.

🦌

What to expect

Some animals are shy and hide in their retreats - patience and quiet behaviour are key. Plan a full day to explore the park at leisure and see all animals.

Geography

Coordinates

51.01140, 4.51250

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Mechelen3 km · NWExplore →

Vilvoorde11 km · SWExplore →

Brussels Airport Cargo (Brucargo)12 km · SExplore →

Grimbergen13 km · SWExplore →

Fort Breendonk13 km · NWExplore →

Lier14 km · NExplore →

Zaventem Tech Park15 km · SExplore →

Meise Botanical Garden16 km · SWExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Planckendael (1)

Strandzone 🎡 recreation

A sandy beach area with a paddling pool for children within Planckendael animal park.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

How is Planckendael structured?

The zoo is divided into continents: Europe, Africa, Oceania, America, and Asia.

Is the park suitable for children?

Yes, there are many adventure playgrounds and interactive stations.

Where exactly is Planckendael located?

It is located in Muizen, a district of Mechelen.

Are there storks there?

Yes, Planckendael is famous for its large colony of wild storks.

Can you go there by boat?

In summer, there is a boat connection from Mechelen station directly to the zoo.

Planckendael: where is it located?

Planckendael is located in Belgium.

Planckendael: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.

Planckendael: why is it worth visiting?

Planckendael Zoo, located in Muizen near Mechelen, is a sweeping 46-hectare landscape park originally acquired in 1956 as a spacious extension for the historic Antwerp Zoo.

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