Zoo Zürich

Zoo Zürich is Switzerland's premier zoological destination, home to over 360 animal species spread across immersive, naturalistic habitats that transport families from the African savanna to the Masoala rainforest. The highlight for many families is the interactive children's zoo where kids can pet and feed friendly animals, plus daily feeding demonstrations and keeper talks that bring wildlife education to life in exciting ways.

• ✓Masoala Rainforest Hall: A massive indoor ecosystem with lemurs, chameleons, and tropical birds flying freely around you
• ✓Children's Zoo with hands-on petting and feeding opportunities with goats, sheep, and other friendly animals
• ✓Kaeng Krachan Elephant Park featuring Switzerland's only elephant herd in a stunning Thai-inspired habitat with underwater viewing
• ✓Penguin and sea lion feeding demonstrations that happen multiple times daily
• ✓Mongolian Steppe exhibit where Bactrian camels and wild horses roam in an expansive landscape

1. 1.Arrive right at opening (9:00 AM) to see the animals at their most active and avoid afternoon crowds, especially on weekends.
2. 2.Head straight to the Masoala Rainforest Hall early in your visit. This indoor tropical habitat maintains perfect conditions year-round and offers a stunning immersive experience with free-flying birds and Madagascar wildlife.
3. 3.Bring Swiss Francs for the animal feeding machines and vending stations. Credit cards are widely accepted, but some interactive experiences require coins.
4. 4.Download the Zoo Zürich app before your visit. It has an English version with an interactive map, feeding times, and daily events to help you plan your route efficiently.
5. 5.Pack layers and rain gear. The zoo is mostly outdoors and Zurich weather can change quickly. Comfortable walking shoes are essential as the zoo is built on a hillside with some steep paths.

Visit on weekday mornings (Tuesday through Thursday) from 9:00 AM to noon for the smallest crowds and most active animals. Spring (April-May) and early fall (September-October) offer pleasant weather and fewer tourists than summer months.

Adult tickets cost around CHF 29 and children (ages 6-15) CHF 14, with under 6 free. The zoo is easily accessible via tram 6 from Zurich city center (about 15 minutes). Multiple restaurants and cafes are on-site with kid-friendly options, plus picnic areas if you prefer to bring your own food.

The zoo is open year-round with winter hours typically extending to 5:00 PM instead of 6:00 PM (November through February). The indoor Masoala Rainforest Hall provides a warm tropical escape during cold months. Special events include Easter activities in spring and festive programs during December, though these may require advance booking.

The zoo has several on-site dining options including Restaurant Masoala with kid menus and high chairs, and the Pantanal Bistro for quick bites. If heading back to central Zurich, Zeughauskeller (a 15-minute tram ride away) is a classic Swiss restaurant serving rösti and schnitzel in a family-friendly atmosphere.