Zurich Zoo

Zurich Zoo (Zoo Zürich) is one of Switzerland's leading zoos. It sits on the wooded slopes of the Zürichberg hill above the city and has been open since 1929. It is best known for the Masoala Rainforest Hall, where you can walk through a slice of Madagascar without leaving Switzerland.

Where is the zoo and when did it open?

The zoo lies on the Zürichberg, on the north-eastern edge of Zurich. It opened on 7 September 1929 as the Zoologischer Garten Zürich. The grounds are forested and hilly, so a visit means walking up and down paths rather than a flat stroll. The trees offer shade in summer, but comfortable shoes help.

What is the Masoala Hall?

Masoala is a huge indoor rainforest, opened in 2003, that recreates the rainforests of north-eastern Madagascar. It is named after the Masoala National Park on that island. The hall is roughly 120 metres long and 90 metres wide, and rises as high as 30 metres. It holds many thousands of plants, and some sources count more than 500 species.

Inside, the climate is tropical: humidity can reach 100 percent and temperatures climb to around 32 degrees Celsius, so take off your warm jacket at the door. Lemurs, chameleons and birds live here, over 50 vertebrate species in all. The animals roam freely, so you often pass them right beside the path. Since 2013 a treetop walkway has also let visitors see the forest from above.

Which animals can you see outside the Masoala Hall?

According to available information, the collection numbers around 2,200 animals of about 300 species. Among the best-known attractions is the Asian elephant exhibit. The zoo is also known for its Galápagos tortoises and is described as the first European institution to breed them successfully. Beyond that, you will find animals from Africa, Asia and South America.

Is the zoo good for families with children?

Yes. The paths are laid out so children can meet animals from several continents in a single day, and the Masoala Hall captures the imagination even without a guide. With young children, plan breaks, because the site is large and in places steep. Children under six normally enter free, but check current prices and rules on the zoo's official website before you go.

How to plan your visit

• Time: allow half a day for a relaxed visit, or a full day with children.
• Order: start with the Masoala Hall in the morning, when animals are most active, then move on to the outdoor enclosures.
• Clothing: the hall is hot and humid while outside can be much cooler depending on the season, so dress in layers.
• Getting there: the zoo is linked to the city centre by public transport, and the ride up the hill takes about a quarter of an hour. Check the timetable for current lines.

Frequently asked questions

How much is a ticket? Prices change. Adults pay a few dozen francs, children less, and the youngest enter free. The current price list is on the zoo's website.

Is it hot in the Masoala Hall? Yes, it is tropical and very humid, with temperatures up to about 32 degrees.

What is the main attraction? The Masoala Hall and the Asian elephant enclosure are most often mentioned.

When was the Masoala Hall built? It opened in 2003, and the treetop walkway was added in 2013.

Is the zoo open all year? Yes, but opening hours depend on the season, so check before you travel.