The Complete Guide to the Zoos in the Netherlands

Discover the complete guide to zoos in the Netherlands with must-see highlights, travel tips, and fun ideas for your next visit.

Introduction

Are you planning a trip to the Netherlands or searching for a fun activity during your stay? Then visiting a zoo in the Netherlands is certainly a worthwhile idea. Whether you are traveling with family, friends, or by yourself, Dutch zoos offer a wide range of experiences that are both engaging and educational. In this guide, you will discover everything you need to know about the top zoos in the country—including where to find them, what makes each one unique, and how to make the most of your visit.

Dutch zoos are more than just places to observe animals. In fact, they are thoughtfully designed to offer beautiful landscapes, interactive learning, and entertainment for visitors of all ages. From elephants and lions to penguins and monkeys, you will encounter a wide variety of animals living in carefully recreated natural environments.

Why visit Zoos in the Netherlands

The Netherlands has a long-standing tradition of respecting nature and animal welfare. For this reason, many Dutch zoos are not only modern and clean but also focus heavily on conservation and sustainable practices.

Additionally, Dutch people take great pride in caring for animals. That is why most zoos offer spacious natural enclosures, wildlife rescue initiatives, and engaging interactive features. Furthermore, these zoos are designed with families in mind. Many include child-friendly elements such as playgrounds, petting farms, and live animal shows that enhance the overall experience.

Moreover, no matter where you are in the country—north, south, east, or west—you are never far from a remarkable zoo. Therefore, adding a zoo visit to your itinerary is both easy and rewarding.

Map of Zoos in the Netherlands

Where to Find Them

Although we cannot include a map in this guide, you can easily locate zoos across the Netherlands by province:

North: Friesland, Groningen, Drenthe
East: Gelderland, Overijssel
West: North Holland (Amsterdam), South Holland (Rotterdam, The Hague)
South: North Brabant, Limburg

Each region offers its own style of zoo—some are small and charming, while others are large and adventurous. As a result, you can tailor your visit to suit your interests and travel style.

Top-Rated Zoos in the Netherlands

Let’s now take a closer look at some of the most popular and well-regarded zoos you should consider visiting.

Royal Burgers’ Zoo – Arnhem
Located in Arnhem, Burgers’ Zoo is widely known for its immersive eco-displays. Visitors can explore diverse environments such as rainforests, deserts, and coral reefs—all under one roof. As a result, it appeals to families, students, and anyone curious about nature.
Artis Royal Zoo – Amsterdam
Opened in 1838, Artis is the oldest zoo in the Netherlands. In addition to its animals, it includes a planetarium, aquarium, and Micropia—a museum about microbes. Moreover, its elegant gardens and historical architecture make it perfect for a peaceful and picturesque outing.
Diergaarde Blijdorp – Rotterdam Zoo
Blijdorp is especially famous for its Oceanium, where you can walk through underwater tunnels surrounded by sea creatures. Furthermore, it includes a butterfly dome, savannah exhibit, and gorilla habitat. Its well-organized layout ensures a relaxed and enjoyable visit.
Ouwehands Dierenpark – Rhenen
Located in the forested hills of Rhenen, Ouwehands Zoo is home to two giant pandas. In addition, the zoo features a massive indoor jungle, outdoor climbing areas, and creative play zones, making it particularly attractive to families.
Wildlands – Emmen
Wildlands offers a mix of zoo and theme park attractions. Divided into three themed areas—Jungola, Serenga, and Nortica—it includes boat rides, animal shows, and storytelling zones. Consequently, it’s a top choice for adventurous visitors and families with children.

Regional Zoo Hightlights

To help you plan further, here is a breakdown of noteworthy zoos by region

Zoos in the North

AquaZoo Leeuwarden – Specializes in aquatic animals and live shows
DoeZoo Leens – Hands-on experiences with reptiles and insects

Zoos in the West

Artis (Amsterdam) – Historic, elegant, and full of learning opportunities
Blijdorp (Rotterdam) – Expansive and modern
Vogelpark Avifauna (Alphen aan den Rijn) – A paradise for bird lovers

Zoos in the South

ZooParc Overloon – Offers a walking safari through themed habitats
Dierenrijk (Nuenen) – Especially appealing to young children
GaiaZOO (Kerkrade) – Features rare species and a scenic layout

Zoos in the East

Burgers’ Zoo (Arnhem) – Known for its vast eco-habitats
Ouwehands Zoo (Rhenen) – Ideal for families and panda enthusiasts
Apenheul (Apeldoorn) – Monkeys roam freely in a forest setting

What Makes Dutch Zoos Special?

Focus on Conservation & Sustainability
Most Dutch zoos actively collaborate with international partners to support endangered species. Additionally, they implement eco-friendly practices such as using solar energy, recycling materials, and constructing sustainable buildings.

Immersive Natural Habitats
Instead of cages, Dutch zoos typically use open spaces, glass partitions, and natural barriers. Consequently, the environments feel more authentic and respectful for both animals and visitors.

Interactive Experiences for Kids
Children often have the chance to feed animals, join guided tours, and play educational games. These activities not only entertain but also teach important lessons about wildlife and conservation.

Architectural & Historical Features
Each zoo has its own unique charm. For example, Artis features 19th-century buildings, while Burgers’ Zoo includes futuristic domes. Therefore, a visit is visually interesting as well as informative.

Practical Information for Visitors

Opening Hours & Ticket Prices
Most zoos open between 9:00 and 10:00 and close around 17:00 or 18:00. Tickets generally cost €20 to €30. Fortunately, children under 3 often enter for free.

Discount Cards

Museumkaart: Accepted at some zoos
Zoo Memberships: Ideal for frequent visits
Combination Tickets: Save money by bundling zoo admission with nearby attractions

Accessibility & Facilities
Dutch zoos are designed for convenience. They provide wheelchair-accessible paths, stroller-friendly routes, clean restrooms, baby changing facilities, restaurants, and souvenir shops.

Best Time of Year to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal, as the weather is pleasant and the animals are more active. Nevertheless, many zoos also offer winter activities, such as indoor exhibits and festive light displays.

Family Tips

Playgrounds, Petting Zoos & Splash Areas
Most zoos feature large play zones, indoor jungles, and petting areas where children can interact with goats, sheep, and rabbits. These spaces are perfect for families with young kids.

Educational Programs and Animal Encounters
Many zoos run scheduled animal feedings, keeper talks, and interactive demonstrations. As a result, both children and adults gain valuable insights while having fun.

How to get there

By Public Transport
Zoos in major cities such as Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Arnhem are easy to access via train, tram, or bus. Furthermore, signage and directions are usually clear and visitor-friendly.

By Car (and Parking Info)
If you’re driving, most zoos provide ample parking. Prices range from €5 to €10 per day, though some locations offer free or discounted parking for electric vehicles.

Nearby Attractions or Day-Trip Ideas
Why not extend your outing? For instance, after visiting Artis Zoo, you could stroll along Amsterdam’s canals or explore the nearby museums.

Seasonal & Special Events

Dutch zoos frequently host special programs, including:

Animal feedings
After-hours zoo visits
Christmas lights and winter festivals
Extended summer hours and shows

These events make each visit feel fresh and exciting—even if you’ve been before.

Photo-Worthy Spots in Each Zoo

If you’re passionate about photography, here are some must-see locations:

Artis: Butterfly greenhouse and historic façades
Burgers’ Zoo: Desert dome and vibrant coral tanks
Wildlands: River safari with lush backdrops
Blijdorp: Oceanium tunnel for underwater shots
GaiaZOO: Rolling hills and stunning natural scenery

Final Thoughts

Which Zoo Is Right for You?

If you’re still deciding, here are a few recommendations:

For families: Dierenrijk or Ouwehands Zoo
For nature lovers: Burgers’ Zoo or GaiaZOO
For couples: Artis offers charm and tranquility
For photographers: Wildlands and Blijdorp deliver stunning visuals

Our Top 3 Picks Based on Experience

Royal Burgers’ Zoo – Best for its eco-focused design and variety
Artis Royal Zoo – Ideal for history, architecture, and extras like Micropia
Wildlands – Excellent for adventure, themes, and immersive environments

Ready to explore more? Browse our other travel guides and discover even more family-friendly adventures and hidden gems throughout the Netherlands. Whether you’re planning a quick trip or a full vacation, we’re here to help you make the most of your time.

Amsterdam Zoo vs Rotterdam Zoo