Looking for zoos that go beyond the typical animal enclosures? From safari sleepovers to penguin parades, these unique zoos around the world promise unforgettable adventures for animal lovers of all ages.
LessStep into the wild at the Singapore Zoo, where the “open concept” design lets you see animals in spacious, naturalistic enclosures with hidden barriers. Have breakfast with orangutans for a meal you’ll never forget. Hop on a buggy tour to get up close with giraffes, tigers, and more. Explore themed zones like Orangutan Island, Reptile Kingdom, and the plains of Wild Africa. Bringing the whole family? Don’t miss KidzWorld for sensory play trees, interactive animal presentations, & a petting zoo!
Internationally known for its conservation efforts, the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park offer the ultimate animal road trip. Watch herds of rhinos and giraffes roaming vast open spaces designed to mimic their natural habitats. Take a guided bus tour to explore the park without achy feet or soar above it all on the Skyfari Aerial Tram. Catch an immersive show in the 4D theater. With more than 4,000 animals from 650 species, you’ll never run out of new critters to meet.
Have you ever wished you could stroll through a savanna without leaving Europe? Bioparc Valencia makes it possible with “zoo-immersion,” where invisible barriers transport you to Africa. With a focus on African wildlife, the zoo features more than 150 African species. Explore realistic habitats like Madagascar and equatorial forests. Sip coffee with giraffes at Café Kidepo or dine among the rhinos at Samburu. Dive into the world of wildlife preservation with zookeeper-led programs!
Venture into the world’s largest indoor desert at the Henry Doorly Zoo, where every exhibit is more immersive than the last. Take in a bird’s-eye view of the park and city on the Skyfari Aerial Tram. Admire lush tropical plants in an indoor rainforest, then experience thrilling animal encounters by feeding giraffes or stingrays. Don’t want the adventure to end? Camp overnight in the park on a sleeping bag safari for an exclusive night tour, movies, and educational activities.
Founded in 1844, Berlin Zoological Garden is Germany’s oldest zoo and one of the most species-rich zoos in the world. Discover more than 20,000 animals from 1,200 different species—including a 66-year-old gorilla. Watch giant pandas munch on bamboo during feeding time, or laugh as rockhopper penguins clumsily splash around. For a VIP experience, book a guided tour or a private encounter with capybaras, hippos, sloths, or even sharks.
Formerly a Cistercian abbey, Pairi Daiza combines historical ruins and cultural elements with wildlife for a one-of-a-kind experience. Explore nine themed areas like the Chinese Garden, home to giant pandas, or the Kingdom of Ganesha, where you’ll find Asian elephants. Enhance your visit with unique experiences like elephant showers and sea lion meet-and-greets. Stay overnight at Pairi Daiza Resort and wake up to the sounds of wolves and walruses.
Waddle with the stars at Edinburgh Zoo‘s famous Penguin Parade, where the penguins voluntarily stroll among the guests each day. You might even spot a knight. Seriously—Sir Nils Olav III, a resident penguin, was knighted by the Norwegian King’s Guard. Meet your favorite animals on a bespoke behind-the-scenes tour, or get your hands dirty with a keeper experience. Embrace panoramic city views while strolling through interactive exhibits like the Giraffe House, Magic Forest, and Budongo Trail.
Crikey! Located on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, the legendary Australia Zoo was founded by Steve Irwin (aka the “Crocodile Hunter”) and his family. In true Irwin fashion, the zoo combines hands-on wildlife encounters with a mission to inspire conservation. Cuddle a koala, stroll with a cheetah, or marvel at crocodile demos during the Wildlife Warrior show. Explore immersive habitats like the African Savannah or Southeast Asian Rainforest, & don’t miss the underwater viewing at Tiger Temple!
Immerse yourself in nature without leaving the city at one of the world’s oldest zoos. ARTIS combines nature, science, and history into a one-of-a-kind experience. Walk through lush botanical gardens, check out bright pink flamingos, and marvel at spider monkeys. Learn about invisible organisms at the world’s first microbe museum, or travel through space in the planetarium. Enhance your visit with a guided tour to learn the stories behind the park’s animals, monuments, and art sculptures.