Langenberg Wildlife Park

Langenberg Wildlife Park (Wildnispark Zürich Langenberg) is a wildlife park in the municipality of Langnau am Albis, in the Sihl Valley just south of Zürich. It is home to native Swiss animals, and you explore it on forest paths rather than along rows of cages. It works well for a family day out or a quiet escape from the city.

What is Langenberg Wildlife Park?

This is a different kind of zoo. Instead of exotic species, it shows animals that live, or once lived, in Switzerland and the wider Alps. The park is part of the Zürich Wilderness Park, a nature area created when the management of Langenberg was joined with that of the neighbouring Sihlwald forest. That makes it easy to combine a visit with a hike through the surrounding woods.

Which animals can you see?

Around twenty native or formerly native species live here. The best known are wolves, brown bears, elk and wild boar. You will also find deer, lynx, wildcats, beavers and hares, along with mountain animals such as ibex and chamois. Many of these species were once wiped out in Switzerland and are now protected or slowly returning to the wild.

What is the visit like?

The animals live in large, wooded enclosures, and circular trails lead visitors through the forest. The experience feels calmer and more natural than a conventional zoo. Wear comfortable shoes, since the paths run over forest ground, and expect to need some patience and quiet to spot certain animals. Mornings and late afternoons are usually the best times to see them active.

A short history

Carl Anton Ludwig von Orelli founded the park in 1869, and it is regarded as the oldest wildlife park in Switzerland. The first animal brought here was the red deer. In 2009 the management of Langenberg was merged with that of the Sihlwald forest, creating the Zürich Wilderness Park.

Planning your trip

The park lies a short trip from central Zürich, near Langnau am Albis, so it fits easily into a half-day outing. The main grounds are open all year, while some sections, such as the western area and the wildcat house, keep shorter hours in winter. Check the park's official website before you go, as hours and rules can change.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Langenberg Wildlife Park? In the municipality of Langnau am Albis, in the Sihl Valley, south of Zürich in Switzerland.

Which animals live there? Among others wolves, brown bears, elk, wild boar, deer, lynx, wildcats and beavers, around twenty native or formerly native species in total.

Is it a traditional zoo? Not quite. The animals live in large forested areas and visitors follow trails through the woods, so it feels more like a nature walk.

Is it suitable for children? Yes. It is a popular family destination with easy trails and a chance to watch wild animals up close.

How old is the park? It was founded in 1869, making it one of the oldest places of its kind in Switzerland.