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Al-Adawi Zoo

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—°11
Al-Adawi Zoo (Syria)

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Al-Adawi Zoo, commonly referred to as the Damascus Zoo, is located in the Adawi district of the Syrian capital and stands as one of the country's oldest institutions of its kind. The zoo houses a diverse range of animal species, including lions, bears, primates, and various exotic birds, serving as a primary destination for family excursions and educational visits. Despite the severe hardships encountered during the years of conflict, the zoo remained operational due to the tireless efforts of dedicated keepers and volunteers who cared for the animals under extreme circumstances. The facility features animal enclosures, landscaped gardens and children's playgrounds, making it a popular urban retreat for leisure. In recent years, renovation programs have been initiated to modernize the enclosures and enhance veterinary care services. The zoo plays a significant role in raising awareness about wildlife conservation, even when faced with limited resources. For many residents of Damascus, visiting Al-Adawi Zoo is a long-standing tradition that has a sense of normalcy in daily life. It remains an important symbol of the preservation of public spaces.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C561014192426262319117
Rain mm6957291871002133557

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
Visitors can walk along shaded pathways to view various animal enclosures in a modest, community-focused setting. It is highly popular among local families and school groups, offering a bustling slice of everyday life in Damascus.
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Typical hours
The zoo is typically open daily from mid-morning until late afternoon, though Friday schedules might vary due to it being a popular family day. It can get quite busy during local school holidays and weekend afternoons.
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Photography
Taking photos of the animals and your family enjoying the day is generally permitted and widely practiced by locals. Always be respectful when including local residents or children in your wider shots, and perhaps ask for permission first.
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Time needed
Most visits span roughly one to two hours, depending on the walking pace and how long children wish to linger at their favorite enclosures. It provides a relaxed environment to take a break from intense sightseeing.
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Combine with
Consider combining this visit with a stroll through the broader Al-Adawi neighborhood or relaxing in nearby public parks. It can also serve as a gentle afternoon activity after a morning exploring the historic souks of Damascus.
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Getting there
The zoo is situated in a central, residential district of the city and is easily reached by local taxis or microbuses plying the main routes. Its central location means it is well-known to almost all local drivers.
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Insider tip
Buying small snacks and refreshments from vendors around the entrance is a common local practice before heading inside. Visiting on a quiet weekday morning gives a more tranquil experience compared to the bustling weekend crowds.

Geography

Coordinates
33.53000, 36.31000

Facts

  • The zoo is situated in the northern part of Damascus, within the Adawi district.
  • It is home to several African lions, which are the main draw for visitors.
  • The facility was maintained through private donations during the toughest years.
  • The brown bear enclosure has recently undergone a complete renovation.
  • Admission fees are kept affordable to ensure access for all social classes.
  • The zoo also functions as a rescue center for injured local wildlife species.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Sayyidah Ruqayya MosqueSayyidah Ruqayya Mosque1 km · WExplore →
Hejaz Railway StationHejaz Railway Station2 km · SWExplore →
Tishreen ParkTishreen Park4 km · SExplore →
Mount QasiounMount Qasioun5 km · SExplore →
Al-Jalaa ParkAl-Jalaa Park6 km · SWExplore →
Sayyidah Zaynab MosqueSayyidah Zaynab Mosque8 km · NWExplore →
Ghouta OasisGhouta Oasis10 km · NExplore →
Happy Land Amusement ParkHappy Land Amusement Park11 km · NWExplore →

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Sights in the town Al-Adawi Zoo (11)

October War Panorama🏛 museum

A museum in Damascus depicting the 1973 October War through a massive circular painting.

Iman Mosque⛪ religious

A modern mosque in Damascus known for its elegant architecture in the Mazzeh district.

Al saydeh church⛪ religious

A Christian church in Damascus dedicated to the Virgin Mary.

Ibn al Haitham Park🌳 park

An urban park in Damascus named after the medieval scholar Ibn al-Haytham.

As'Salam Park🌳 park

A public recreational park in northern Damascus featuring walkways and green spaces.

Art Studio🏛 museum

An art studio in Damascus showcasing contemporary Syrian artworks.

Mishwar Gallery🏛 museum

This gallery hosts rotating exhibitions of contemporary Syrian art and local creators.

Mosque of Alhaja Anisa⛪ religious

This neighborhood mosque is characterized by its traditional stone masonry and peaceful atmosphere.

Al Husain📍 landmark

A Muslim place of worship featuring a simple arched entrance and traditional stone facade.

Mosque of AlHusn📍 landmark

This mosque features a quiet inner courtyard used for daily congregational prayers.

Mosque of Shaikh Mussa📍 landmark

A small neighborhood mosque with a distinct geometric dome crowning its roof.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What can one see at Al-Adawi Zoo?
The zoo houses a variety of native and exotic animals.
Is the zoo suitable for children?
Yes, it is a popular destination for families.
What are the opening hours?
Open during the day, usually from morning until late afternoon.
Is parking available?
There are usually public parking spots near the entrance.
Are pets allowed?
For safety reasons, pets are usually not allowed.
Al-Adawi Zoo: where is it located?
Al-Adawi Zoo is located in Syria.
Al-Adawi Zoo: what is there to see?
Highlights include October War Panorama, Iman Mosque, Al saydeh church.
Al-Adawi Zoo: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.
Al-Adawi Zoo: why is it worth visiting?
Al-Adawi Zoo, commonly referred to as the Damascus Zoo, is located in the Adawi district of the Syrian capital and stands as one of the country's oldest institutions of its kind.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
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Nearby cities

Damascus — Al-Adawi Zoo (Syria)
Damascus
Damascus is the capital of Syria and one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world.

History & landmarks

Sayyidah Ruqayya Mosque — Al-Adawi Zoo (Syria)
Sayyidah Ruqayya Mosque
A magnificent mosque in Damascus that contains the tomb of Imam Hussein's daughter and is known for its elaborate mirror mosaics.
Mausoleum of Saladin — Al-Adawi Zoo (Syria)
Mausoleum of Saladin
The final resting place of the famous Ayyubid Sultan Saladin, located in a small garden next to the Umayyad Mosque.
Azem Palace — Al-Adawi Zoo (Syria)
Azem Palace
The Azem Palace in the Old City of Damascus was built in 1749 as the residence of the Ottoman governor and is a masterpiece of Islamic ar…
Khan As'ad Pasha — Al-Adawi Zoo (Syria)
Khan As'ad Pasha
The largest caravanserai in the Old City of Damascus, famous for its spectacular nine domes and striped stone facade.
Bab Sharqi — Al-Adawi Zoo (Syria)
Bab Sharqi
One of the ancient city gates of Damascus and the only one that still retains its original Roman appearance with three arches.
Hejaz Railway Station — Al-Adawi Zoo (Syria)
Hejaz Railway Station
The historic terminal station in Damascus, famous for its richly decorated ceiling and impressive stained-glass windows.
Tekkiye Mosque — Al-Adawi Zoo (Syria)
Tekkiye Mosque
An impressive Ottoman mosque complex in Damascus, designed by the famous architect Mimar Sinan in the 16th century.
National Museum of Damascus — Al-Adawi Zoo (Syria)
National Museum of Damascus
Syria's most important archaeological museum, presenting millennia of history from prehistoric times to the Islamic era.

More places

Umayyad Mosque — Al-Adawi Zoo (Syria)
Umayyad Mosque
Built in the 8th century, this mosque in Damascus rests on the foundations of a Roman temple.
Temple of Jupiter — Al-Adawi Zoo (Syria)
Temple of Jupiter
Remains of a gigantic Roman temple that once dominated the center of Damascus.
Citadel of Damascus — Al-Adawi Zoo (Syria)
Citadel of Damascus
A completely flat-level citadel built not on a hill but at the same elevation as the rest of the old city.
Tishreen Park — Al-Adawi Zoo (Syria)
Tishreen Park
One of the largest public parks in Damascus, providing a green oasis in the heart of the bustling capital.
Mount Qasioun — Al-Adawi Zoo (Syria)
Mount Qasioun
Mount Qasioun rises directly above Damascus, offering an unparalleled panoramic view of the entire capital city.
Al-Jalaa Park — Al-Adawi Zoo (Syria)
Al-Jalaa Park
A well-known sports and leisure park in Damascus, providing facilities for various outdoor activities.