Papiliorama

Papiliorama in Kerzers, in the Swiss canton of Fribourg, is a tropical complex under glass domes: a butterfly garden, a house for nocturnal animals and a rainforest modelled on Belize. A non-profit foundation runs it, and a visit feels like a short trip to Central America without leaving Switzerland.

What is Papiliorama?

Papiliorama combines a zoo and a botanical garden specialising in tropical animals and plants. The three main areas sit under glass domes of roughly 1,200 square metres each. Inside, the air is warm and humid like in a tropical forest, so you can explore in light clothing even on a cold day.

What will you see inside?

The butterfly garden

The best-known part is the hall where butterflies fly freely. More than 60 species live here, and over a thousand individuals can be in the air at once. They land on plants, fruit and sometimes on visitors, so move slowly and watch your step.

Nocturama

Nocturama reverses day and night. Light is dimmed so nocturnal animals are active during opening hours. You can watch sloths, night monkeys, aardvarks and bats, among others. It is a rare chance to see these animals moving rather than asleep in a corner of the enclosure.

Jungle Trek

The third area recreates the tropical forest of Belize. A path leads through dense vegetation shared with animals from Central America. It is a good place to understand the kind of ecosystem the foundation works to protect.

The foundation's mission

Papiliorama is a charitable non-profit organisation. Its aim is to raise awareness of the fate of tropical forests and nature worldwide. A sister foundation, ITCF, protects more than 11,000 hectares (110 km²) of tropical nature in Belize. Your ticket therefore also supports conservation far beyond Switzerland.

History

The first sanctuary opened in 1988 in Marin, canton of Neuchâtel. A fire destroyed it on 1 January 1995. The foundation then moved to Kerzers, where the municipality offered a new five-hectare site free of rent. The whole complex stands there today.

Frequently asked questions

Is Papiliorama open all year?

Yes, it welcomes visitors year-round. The tropical domes are heated, so a visit works well in winter and on rainy days too.

How do I get to Papiliorama?

Kerzers lies between Bern and Neuchâtel. You can reach the attraction directly by train, which is convenient if you travel without a car.

Who is it for?

Families with children, nature lovers and photographers. Kids enjoy spotting butterflies and night animals, while adults will appreciate the educational angle and the foundation's work for forests.

How much time should I plan?

Allow a few hours for an unhurried walk through the three areas. The butterfly garden usually takes the longest, because it is hard to look away.

Can I photograph the butterflies?

Yes, the butterfly hall is one of the best places for macro photography. Patience pays off: butterflies often settle close when you stand still. In Nocturama the dim light calls for a fast lens, and flash is best avoided.

Summary

Papiliorama in Kerzers blends entertainment with education. Three tropical domes, over a thousand free-flying butterflies and a reversed day in Nocturama make it one of the most interesting stops in western Switzerland, especially for families.