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ZooParc de Beauval
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Animal habitat
ZooParc de Beauval, located in Saint-Aignan in the heart of the Loire Valley, is consistently ranked among the world's most beautiful zoos and is the largest in France. Founded in 1980 by Françoise Delord, it began as a bird sanctuary before expanding to house over 35,000 animals across 800 different species. The zoo is most famous for its Giant Pandas, on loan from China, and has become a leader in panda conservation; in 2017, it celebrated the birth of the first panda cub on French soil. The park is divided into several immersive thematic areas, including a massive Equatorial Dome that recreates a tropical ecosystem and a sprawling African Savannah. Beauval is deeply committed to biodiversity, with its own foundation supporting conservation projects worldwide for endangered species. It is one of the few places in Europe where visitors can see manatees, koalas, and white tigers in carefully designed habitats. A modern cable car system allows guests to glide over the park, offering a unique aerial perspective of the animal enclosures.
- Location: Centre-Val de Loire, France
- Top sights: Château de Saint-Aignan · ZooParc de Beauval · Les poissons du lac Tanganyika
- Nearby: Selles-sur-Cher (16 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 | 4 | 4 | 7 | 11 | 14 | 18 | 21 | 21 | 17 | 13 | 8 | 4 |
| Rain mm | 65 | 50 | 60 | 54 | 74 | 63 | 54 | 51 | 44 | 72 | 67 | 71 |
📋 Practical info
Best season
ZooParc de Beauval is open year-round, but the best time for animal watching is spring when many young are born. Autumn also provides mild temperatures and fewer visitors.
Best time of day
Morning hours right after opening are handy as the animals are especially active after the night's rest. Also plan for feeding times, which usually take place several times a day and offer spectacular insights.
Etiquette
Please stick to the designated paths and respect the barriers to avoid disturbing the animals. Feeding the animals is not permitted as their diet is precisely tailored to their needs.
What to bring
Binoculars are useful for spotting details on animals in large enclosures. Comfortable shoes are recommended as the zoo is extensive and you will cover several kilometers on foot.
Getting there
ZooParc de Beauval is located in Saint-Aignan in the Centre-Val de Loire region and is best reached by car. Large paid parking lots are available directly next to the zoo.
What to expect
Some animals, like the giant pandas, are often resting - patience is key to catch them in active moments. Allow plenty of time and return to popular enclosures later for another chance.
Geography
Facts
- The zoo covers 45 hectares and is home to more than 35,000 animals.
- The first panda born in France, Yuan Meng, was born here in August 2017.
- The Equatorial Dome is a 1-hectare tropical glasshouse completed in 2020.
- Beauval attracts over 2 million visitors annually, making it a top French site.
- The park's foundation supports over 50 conservation projects around the globe.
- A 35-meter high cable car connects the two ends of the vast park.
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Notable places around
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Sights in the town ZooParc de Beauval (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the highlight of the zoo?
The giant pandas are the only ones in France and are an absolute highlight of the park.
How much time should I plan for?
A full day is necessary to see all areas and the bird shows comfortably.
Is the zoo accessible?
Yes, most paths are wheelchair-friendly, and there is a cable car to cross the site.
Are there dining options on-site?
Numerous restaurants and snack bars offer a wide selection from fast food to full meals.
Are pets allowed?
No, for safety and hygiene reasons, dogs and other pets are prohibited in the park.
ZooParc de Beauval: where is it located?
ZooParc de Beauval is located in Centre-Val de Loire, France.
ZooParc de Beauval: what is there to see?
Highlights include Château de Saint-Aignan, ZooParc de Beauval, Les poissons du lac Tanganyika.
ZooParc de Beauval: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
ZooParc de Beauval: why is it worth visiting?
ZooParc de Beauval, located in Saint-Aignan in the heart of the Loire Valley, is consistently ranked among the world's most beautiful zoos and is the largest in France.
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