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Zurich Zoo

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Zurich Zoo (Switzerland)

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Zurich Zoo, located on the Zürichberg hill, is one of Europe's most prestigious zoological gardens, renowned for its commitment to naturalistic enclosures. Opened in 1929, the zoo spans approximately 27 hectares and focuses on ecosystems rather than individual cages. A major milestone was the 2003 opening of the Masoala Rainforest hall, a massive glass structure recreating the tropical biodiversity of Madagascar. Other significant exhibits include the Kaeng Krachan Elephant Park and the Lewa Savanna, which houses giraffes, white rhinos, and zebras in a spacious mixed-species habitat. The zoo is deeply involved in international conservation breeding programs and hosts over 375 animal species. By emphasizing animal welfare and ecological education, it provides visitors with deep insights into global biodiversity hotspots and the importance of protecting endangered species through dedicated research and global partnerships.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C-104913171918141040
Rain mm9474929114113914414610310087102

📋 Practical info

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Best season
Zurich Zoo is worth a visit year-round, but spring and autumn see the most animal activity. The Masoala Rainforest Hall, however, provides a tropical experience regardless of the season.
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Best time of day
Feeding times are often in the morning and afternoon, when animals are especially active. Visiting in the late morning or early afternoon increases your chances of seeing them eat.
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Etiquette
Do not feed or touch the animals. Follow the marked paths and refrain from loud shouting to avoid disturbing the animals' peace.
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What to bring
When visiting the Masoala Hall, light clothing is recommended due to high humidity. Good walking shoes are beneficial for navigating the zoo's extensive grounds.
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Getting there
Zurich Zoo is situated on Zurichberg and is reachable by tram line 6 from Zurich main station. The stop is called 'Zürich, Zoo' and is right at the entrance.
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What to expect
The zoo is very popular, so it can get crowded during peak times. Allow plenty of time and find quiet spots away from the main paths.

Geography

Coordinates
47.38720, 8.57720

Facts

  • Zurich Zoo was officially opened in the year 1929.
  • The Masoala Rainforest hall covers an area of 11,000 square meters.
  • More than 375 animal species are housed within the park.
  • The Lewa Savanna is the zoo's largest exhibit, spanning 5.6 hectares.
  • The zoo attracts more than 1.2 million visitors annually.
  • The site on Zürichberg is situated at an elevation of about 600 meters.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Swiss National MuseumSwiss National Museum3 km · WExplore →
WallisellenWallisellen3 km · NExplore →
DübendorfDübendorf3 km · EExplore →
Botanical Garden of ZurichBotanical Garden of Zurich3 km · SExplore →
St. Joseph ChurchSt. Joseph Church4 km · WExplore →
St. Felix ChurchSt. Felix Church5 km · NWExplore →
OpfikonOpfikon5 km · NExplore →
ZollikonZollikon5 km · SExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Zurich Zoo (10)

Lewa Airstrip

Recreated airstrip at Zurich Zoo, part of the Lewa savanna landscape.

Asian Elephant

Enclosure for Asian elephants at Zurich Zoo.

Pygmy goats

Petting area with pygmy goats at Zurich Zoo.

Zoo Zürich

Zoo in Zurich, home to numerous animal species.

🕒 Mar-Oct: Mo-Su,PH 9:00-18:00; Nov-Feb: Mo-Su,PH 9:00-17:00♿💶

Safaribus

Viewpoint at Zurich Zoo, overlooking the savanna enclosure.

Sagentobelbachfall

Stream in the canton of Zurich, Switzerland.

MAWS301 Zürichberg🗼 tower

Antenna tower on Zürichberg in Zurich.

Zürichberg

Mountain in Switzerland, part of the Zürichberg.

Burgstelle Schiterburg

Castle hill with no wall traces, visible ring ditch; 1902 sondage found building remains.

St. Martin

Church building in the canton of Zurich, Switzerland.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is the Masoala Hall?
A huge ecosystem that replicates the Madagascan rainforest.
Are there elephants in the zoo?
Yes, the Kaeng Krachan Elephant Park is one of the main attractions.
Is it allowed to feed the animals?
No, feeding the animals is strictly prohibited.
What's the best way to get to the zoo?
Take tram line 6 directly from Zurich main station.
Is the zoo open year-round?
Yes, Zoo Zurich is open 365 days a year.
Zurich Zoo: where is it located?
Zurich Zoo is located in Switzerland.
Zurich Zoo: what is there to see?
Highlights include Lewa Airstrip, Asian Elephant, Pygmy goats.
Zurich Zoo: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Zurich Zoo: why is it worth visiting?
Zurich Zoo, located on the Zürichberg hill, is one of Europe's most prestigious zoological gardens, renowned for its commitment to naturalistic enclosures.
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History & landmarks

Sankt Gallen — Zurich Zoo (Switzerland)
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