Zurich Zoo

Zurich Zoo lies on the wooded slope of the Zürichberg above the city, and it has been a family favourite since it opened in 1929. The grounds are laid out as a park, with winding paths among trees, and the enclosures follow the contours of the hill, so that a visit feels like a walk through a series of landscapes. About 380 species are kept here, ranging from small primates and tropical birds to elephants and big cats, and the zoo takes part in international programmes to protect and breed endangered species.

The three large themed areas set the character of the zoo. The Masoala Rainforest is a huge hall, about a hectare in area, that recreates the climate and plants of a rainforest in north-eastern Madagascar. Inside, it is warm and humid, with tall trees, waterfalls and winding paths, and lemurs, birds and reptiles move freely among the visitors. It is one of the most distinctive attractions of the zoo, and many people spend an hour here. The Lewa Savanna, named after a conservancy in Kenya, offers a wide view across open ground where giraffes, zebras and other African animals share an enclosure designed to resemble the plains. The Kaeng Krachan Elephant Park, named after a national park in Thailand, gives Asian elephants a large area with pools, sand and logs, and a viewing building that allows visitors to watch the animals from several angles.

The zoo is designed for a full day. Allow at least three or four hours, and more if you want to visit every area. Many families bring a picnic, and there are restaurants and kiosks in the grounds. Paths are suitable for pushchairs, though the slope can make walking tiring for young children. A programme of feeding times and talks gives a chance to learn about the animals, and the schedule varies by season.

Getting there is easy by public transport. A tram line runs directly from the city centre to the entrance, and the journey takes about twenty minutes. Parking is limited, so public transport is recommended.

Opening hours depend on the season, and ticket prices change, so check the zoo's current information. Parts of the grounds may be affected by building work as the zoo renews its facilities under a long-term development plan, which is worth bearing in mind when planning a visit.