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Animal City Lebanon
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kid-friendly
Animal City Lebanon is a comprehensive zoo and educational center located in the scenic valley of Nahr el Kalb, north of Beirut. Since its establishment in 2006, the park has grown to house over 200 species of animals from across the globe. The facility's primary mission is to educate the public, especially younger generations, about wildlife diversity and the critical importance of environmental conservation. The park is organized into thematic zones that mimic natural habitats, featuring enclosures for lions, tigers, bears, and a diverse variety of primates. In addition to animal viewing, Animal City provides extensive playgrounds, dining facilities, and interactive educational shows, making it a premier destination for family outings in Lebanon. The zoo is also involved in wildlife rescue and rehabilitation efforts for local species. Its location near the historic Nahr el Kalb river provides a refreshing natural backdrop for visitors exploring the diverse animal collection.
- Location: Lebanon
- Top sights: Pelicans · HAENSEL MEMORIAL · Rio Lento
- Nearby: Broummana (7 km)
- Population: ~96.315 (2026)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Oct.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 11 | 12 | 14 | 17 | 21 | 24 | 26 | 26 | 25 | 22 | 17 | 13 |
| Rain mm | 115 | 82 | 43 | 23 | 9 | 2 | 0 | 1 | 5 | 23 | 56 | 96 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Guests can walk through the various outdoor enclosures and indoor habitats to observe both domestic and exotic animal species. As a family-oriented park, the pathways are designed to be accessible, allowing visitors of all ages to comfortably view the wildlife.
Typical hours
The park is typically open daily from mid-morning until late afternoon, catering perfectly to families looking for a daytime activity. Weekend afternoons tend to be the busiest, so consider visiting earlier in the day or on a weekday for a more relaxed experience.
Photography
Taking photos of the animals and your family is highly encouraged throughout the site. Please remember to turn off your camera's flash to avoid startling the animals, particularly when photographing species in shaded or enclosed areas.
Time needed
Families usually spend between two to three hours wandering around the diverse animal enclosures and enjoying the recreational facilities. If you plan to grab a snack or let children play in designated areas, allowing for a half-day visit is a sensible idea.
Combine with
Located in the scenic Nahr el Kalb valley, this zoo trip combines wonderfully with a visit to the nearby historical stelae left by ancient armies. You can seamlessly balance a fun nature outing with a touch of deep Lebanese history in the same geographical area.
Getting there
The park is most conveniently reached by car, located just off the coastal highway near the dog river gorge. Ample parking is generally provided on-site, making it an easy drive from Beirut or surrounding coastal towns for a stress-free family day out.
Insider tip
Bring comfortable walking shoes and perhaps some light snacks or water, as exploring the entire park can be quite active for small children. It is also beneficial to check if there are any specific animal feeding times scheduled during your visit for an interactive experience.
Geography
Facts
- The zoo was officially opened in the year 2006.
- It is home to more than 200 different animal species.
- The park is situated in the Nahr el Kalb river valley.
- Specialized educational programs are offered for schools.
- The facility features rare white tigers in its collection.
- Over 50 different bird species are housed within the park.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Animal City Lebanon (4)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Which animals can be found in Animal City?
There are over 50 species, including lions, tigers, monkeys, and reptiles.
Where is Animal City located?
It is located in the Nahr el-Kalb valley, about 20 minutes from Beirut.
Is it suitable for small children?
Yes, there is a petting zoo and play areas specifically for children.
Are there restaurants on-site?
Yes, there are cafes and snack bars for visitors.
How much is the entrance fee?
It is around 10-15 USD per person, with discounts for children.
Animal City Lebanon: where is it located?
Animal City Lebanon is located in Lebanon.
Animal City Lebanon: what is there to see?
Highlights include Pelicans, HAENSEL MEMORIAL, Rio Lento.
Animal City Lebanon: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Oct.
Animal City Lebanon: why is it worth visiting?
Animal City Lebanon is a comprehensive zoo and educational center located in the scenic valley of Nahr el Kalb, north of Beirut.
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