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Sarajevo Zoo

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

wildlife

Weather…

The Sarajevo Zoo, locally known as Pionirska dolina (Pioneer Valley), is the only zoo in Bosnia and Herzegovina, located just two kilometers northeast of the city center. Established in 1951, it spans a hilly area of approximately 8.5 hectares, with a small stream running through its center. During the Siege of Sarajevo between 1992 and 1995, the zoo was completely destroyed, and sadly, almost all its animals perished due to the conflict. Following the war, the area was meticulously cleared of mines and debris before being reopened to the public in 1999. Today, the zoo houses over 50 different animal species, including lions, bears, zebras, and various primates, kept in modernized enclosures. Beyond its role as a wildlife facility, Pionirska dolina serves as a major recreational hub for families, featuring extensive playgrounds and green spaces. It remains a key institution for environmental education and local biodiversity awareness in the capital.

Location: Bosnia and Herzegovina
Top sights: Zoološki vrt Pionirska dolina · Spomenik OPSN LASTA · "Diskoton"
Nearby: East Sarajevo (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	-2	-1	2	7	12	16	18	18	13	9	4	-1
Rain mm	63	64	69	69	99	103	75	61	77	71	74	73

📋 Practical info

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Best season

The zoo is open year-round, but spring and autumn offer pleasant weather for a visit. Summer can be hot, but many animals are especially active in the outdoor enclosures then.

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Best time of day

The best time to visit the zoo is in the morning, when animals are still lively after feeding. Late afternoon sees many animals become calmer, but the atmosphere is more relaxed.

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Etiquette

Do not feed the animals or throw objects into the enclosures. Maintain a safe distance from enclosures and follow all posted behavior guidelines.

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What to bring

Comfortable shoes are recommended as the zoo covers a large area. A camera is useful to capture memories of the various animal species.

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Getting there

The zoo is located in the Pionirska dolina district of Sarajevo and is well reachable by public transport. Parking is available near the entrance.

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What to expect

Weekends and holidays can be very crowded - plan your visit on a weekday for more peace. Some animals hide during the day, so check the shaded corners of enclosures as well.

Geography

Coordinates

43.87420, 18.41610

Facts

Year established: 1951
Total area: 8.5 hectares
Reopened: 1999
Number of species: Over 50
Location: Pionirska dolina
Distance from center: Approx. 2 km

Explore nearby

Notable places around

War Child Museum2 km · SEExplore →

History Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina2 km · SWExplore →

Istočni Stari Grad3 km · SEExplore →

Trebević Protected Landscape5 km · SEExplore →

East Sarajevo6 km · SWExplore →

Vogošća7 km · NWExplore →

Rajlovac Logistics Center7 km · WExplore →

Briješće7 km · WExplore →

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 Sarajevo Zoo (10)

Zoološki vrt Pionirska dolina

Recreational and entertainment center and zoo in Sarajevo, features animal enclosures and playgrounds.

🌐 park.ba

Spomenik OPSN LASTA

Monument in Sarajevo, commemorates the police unit OPSN LASTA.

"Diskoton"

Ruins of the former Diskoton record label in Sarajevo, burned down in 1992.

Kapela Vidovdanskih heroja

Orthodox chapel in Sarajevo, dedicated to the heroes of Vidovdan.

Panjina kula🏛 museum

Museum in Sarajevo, displays exhibitions on city history.

SARTR - Sarajevo War Theatre (ex-CDA)

War theatre in Sarajevo, established during the siege, now a performance venue.

Bista Paddy Ashdown

Bust of Paddy Ashdown, British politician and High Representative for Bosnia.

Spomenik odredu policije BOSNA

Monument to the police unit BOSNA in Sarajevo.

Muzej 105. Motorizovane brigade🏛 museum

Museum of the 105th Motorized Brigade in Sarajevo, military history collection.

Kuća Alije Đerzeleza

House of the legendary Bosnian hero Alija Đerzelez, now a memorial site.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is the alternative name for the zoo?

It is locally known as 'Pionirska dolina' (Pioneer Valley).

Are there playgrounds for children?

Yes, there is a large amusement park with slides, carousels, and swings.

What animals can be seen at the zoo?

You can see bears, lions, zebras, llamas, and various bird species.

How much is the entrance fee for children?

Entrance for children is discounted and costs about 2.50 KM (approx. 1.30 EUR).

Is the zoo accessible by public transport?

Yes, you can take trolleys or buses heading towards Jezero.

Sarajevo Zoo: where is it located?

Sarajevo Zoo is located in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Sarajevo Zoo: what is there to see?

Highlights include Zoološki vrt Pionirska dolina, Spomenik OPSN LASTA, "Diskoton".

Sarajevo Zoo: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.

Sarajevo Zoo: why is it worth visiting?

The Sarajevo Zoo, locally known as Pionirska dolina (Pioneer Valley), is the only zoo in Bosnia and Herzegovina, located just two kilometers northeast of the city center.

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