Zoo du Bassin d'Arcachon

Zoo du Bassin d'Arcachon is one of the largest zoos in France, set just south of La Teste-de-Buch along the road toward the Cazaux district. The park spreads across 22 hectares of forest and offers 4 kilometers of walking trails through naturally shaded grounds.

How many animals live at the zoo?

The park is home to nearly 1,000 animals from more than 200 species originating from five continents. Residents include gorillas, elephants, giraffes, black rhinoceroses, orangutans, okapis, white lions, giant anteaters, fennec foxes, binturongs, and Asian small-clawed otters. This range of species places Zoo du Bassin d'Arcachon among the leading zoological parks in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region.

What makes a visit here different from a typical zoo?

The park's signature experience is the Safari Tour, a ride aboard an all-terrain truck that brings visitors close to giraffes, rhinoceroses, hippos, and other African species in settings that echo their natural habitats. It's a different way of encountering wildlife than walking the standard paths, and it appeals equally to families with children and to wildlife photography enthusiasts.

Throughout the season the zoo also runs narrated feeding sessions, educational activities, and talks focused on the conservation of endangered species. The exact program changes with the season, so it's worth checking the current schedule before visiting.

When is it open and how much do tickets cost?

The zoo operates seasonally, typically from early February to early November, with opening hours that shift throughout the year. During peak season, from April through the end of August, the park is open daily from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Outside peak season, in early spring and autumn, hours are shorter, and in some periods the park only opens on weekends.

A standard ticket for visitors aged 12 and up costs around €31.90, while a child's ticket (ages 3–11) costs around €24.90; children under 3 enter free. Prices can vary depending on the season and ongoing promotions, so it's best to check current rates before arriving.

How do you get there, and what else is nearby?

The park sits just a few minutes' drive from the Dune du Pilat, one of France's most recognizable natural landmarks, and roughly 45 minutes from Bordeaux. Thanks to its location near the Arcachon Bay, the zoo fits naturally into a day trip that combines wildlife viewing with time by the water.

Given the size of the grounds and the number of attractions on offer, it's worth setting aside at least half a day for a visit. The walking trails run through forested terrain, which keeps much of the park shaded even on hot summer days — a notable advantage compared with many other zoos in the region.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Zoo du Bassin d'Arcachon open year-round? No, the park operates seasonally, generally from February to November, with a winter closure. Opening hours change depending on the time of year.

How long does a visit take? With 22 hectares of grounds and 4 kilometers of trails, a full visit typically takes between 3 and 5 hours, depending on pace and how many attractions — including the Safari Tour — you take in.

Can visitors get close to African animals beyond the standard enclosures? Yes, the Safari Tour aboard an all-terrain truck lets visitors approach giraffes, rhinoceroses, and hippos in settings that resemble their natural habitats.

How far is the zoo from the Dune du Pilat? The zoo is only a few minutes' drive from the Dune du Pilat, making it easy to combine both attractions in a single day trip around the Arcachon Bay area.