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Wildlands Adventure Zoo Emmen
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wildlife
Wildlands Adventure Zoo Emmen is a contemporary theme park and zoo in the province of Drenthe, which opened its doors in March 2016. Replacing the long-standing Noorder Dierenpark Emmen, it features an innovative design that blends wildlife viewing with interactive adventure. The park is organized into three immersive thematic zones: Jungola, Serenga, and Nortica. Jungola contains one of the world's largest tropical greenhouses, where visitors can take boat tours through a dense jungle environment. Serenga replicates an African savanna landscape, home to giraffes, rhinos, and lions, while Nortica focuses on polar regions with habitats for polar bears and penguins. Occupying 22 hectares, the facility provides spacious enclosures designed to mimic natural environments. Wildlands emphasizes sustainability and environmental education to foster a deeper understanding of global conservation efforts.
- Location: Drenthe, Netherlands
- Top sights: Hunebed D41 Emmen Noord · Hunebed Westenesch-N D42 · Hunebed D44 Emmen Westenesch
- Nearby: Odoorn (8 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 | 2 | 5 | 9 | 13 | 16 | 18 | 18 | 15 | 11 | 6 | 3 |
| Rain mm | 77 | 61 | 54 | 39 | 58 | 64 | 79 | 82 | 63 | 67 | 70 | 77 |
📋 Practical info
Best season
Open year-round, but outdoor areas like the savanna and jungle are most impressive in good weather. Winter months can be dry and pleasant in the tropical halls.
Best time of day
Morning is convenient for watching animals at breakfast, especially in the savanna. Late afternoon often gives softer light for photos and calmer animal movements.
Etiquette
Feeding is of course prohibited; animals receive precisely balanced rations. Stay on paths in the themed worlds and do not climb over barriers.
What to bring
Binoculars help spot details in the large savanna and jungle exhibits. Comfortable hiking shoes are recommended as the zoo is built on a slope and has many paths.
Getting there
Wildlands Adventure Zoo is located in Emmen, well accessible by car via the A37 and N34. Ample parking is available right next to the zoo.
What to expect
The different themed worlds are vast and worth exploring at leisure. Some animals are particularly active in interactive areas, but simply sitting on a bench and enjoying the atmosphere is also recommended.
Geography
Facts
- The park officially opened on March 25, 2016.
- Total area of the facility covers 22 hectares.
- Jungola features one of the largest indoor tropical halls in the world.
- Replaced the original Noorder Dierenpark, founded in 1935.
- The Rimbula Restaurant overlooks the resident elephant herd.
- Serenga Safari uses solar-powered vehicles for visitor transport.
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Notable places around
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Sights in the town Wildlands Adventure Zoo Emmen (5)
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Frequently asked questions
What is the concept of Wildlands?
It is a combination of an adventure park and a zoo with different themed worlds.
Is there a boat ride?
Yes, in the 'Jungola' world, you can take a jungle boat ride.
Can you go on a safari?
Yes, in the 'Serenga' world, you ride in a truck through the savannah.
Where is Wildlands located?
The park is located in Emmen, in the province of Drenthe.
Are there amusement rides?
Yes, among others, there is a roller coaster called 'Tweestryd'.
Wildlands Adventure Zoo Emmen: where is it located?
Wildlands Adventure Zoo Emmen is located in Drenthe, Netherlands.
Wildlands Adventure Zoo Emmen: what is there to see?
Highlights include Hunebed D41 Emmen Noord, Hunebed Westenesch-N D42, Hunebed D44 Emmen Westenesch.
Wildlands Adventure Zoo Emmen: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Wildlands Adventure Zoo Emmen: why is it worth visiting?
Wildlands Adventure Zoo Emmen is a contemporary theme park and zoo in the province of Drenthe, which opened its doors in March 2016.
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