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Moscow Zoo

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Moscow Zoo (Russia)

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Opened in 1864, the Moscow Zoo is not only one of the oldest zoological gardens in Europe but also ranks among the most visited institutions of its kind globally. Situated directly amidst the urban bustle of the Russian capital, the zoo covers a sprawling 21-hectare campus and houses an astonishing diversity of over 1,000 different animal species, totaling more than 8,000 individual specimens. The zoo has achieved particular renown for its highly successful breeding and conservation programs focused on large felines, notably the critically endangered Amur tiger and the snow leopard. Additional major highlights include the specialized enclosures for Siberian wildlife and polar marine mammals, which have been carefully engineered to replicate their natural habitats as closely as possible. Beyond its enduring role as a popular tourist attraction, the Moscow Zoo currently operates primarily as a leading scientific research facility, participating extensively in international conservation networks dedicated to preserving threatened Eurasian species.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C-11-10-4413161917124-2-8
Rain mm484243498686937564695852

📋 Practical info

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Best season
Moscow Zoo is open year-round, but spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer the most pleasant temperatures. In summer enclosures are full of life, but visitor numbers are also highest.
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Best time of day
The best time to visit is early morning just after opening, when animals are still active and crowds are low. Late afternoon many animals are tired or resting - so plan an early start.
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Etiquette
Feeding animals is strictly prohibited throughout the zoo - watch for warning signs. Always stay behind barriers and keep adequate distance from enclosures.
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What to bring
Comfortable shoes are important as the zoo is spacious and you will be walking for several hours. Binoculars can be helpful for better viewing details in larger enclosures.
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Getting there
Moscow Zoo is located in central Moscow and easily reached by metro (Barrikadnaya or Krasnopresnenskaya stations). Many bus and trolleybus lines also stop near the main entrance.
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What to expect
Weekends and holidays can be very crowded - schedule a weekday visit to avoid large crowds. Animals in captivity often have rest periods - wait patiently until they become active again.

Geography

Coordinates
55.76000, 37.57000

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Sights in the town Moscow Zoo (3)

Vladimir Mayakovsky appartment museum🏛 museum

Apartment museum of poet Vladimir Mayakovsky.

Presnenskiy park🌳 park

Park in Russia.

Memorial'naia territoriia v pamiat' o sobytiiakh 1993 goda

Memorial site for the events of 1993.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

How to get there?
By metro, stop Krasnopresnenskaya.
Are dogs allowed?
No, pets are prohibited in the zoo.
How long does the visit take?
Plan for about 3 to 4 hours.
Are there discounts?
Yes, for children, students, and seniors.
Is the zoo family-friendly?
Yes, very, with many playgrounds.
Moscow Zoo: where is it located?
Moscow Zoo is located in Russia.
Moscow Zoo: what is there to see?
Highlights include Vladimir Mayakovsky appartment museum, Presnenskiy park, Memorial'naia territoriia v pamiat' o sobytiiakh 1993 goda.
Moscow Zoo: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Moscow Zoo: why is it worth visiting?
Opened in 1864, the Moscow Zoo is not only one of the oldest zoological gardens in Europe but also ranks among the most visited institutions of its kind globally.
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