The best zoos Switzerland

Discover Basel Zoo, a biodiversity oasis in the heart of the city, with over 500 species from all over the world. Accessible from the SBB station and the city center, the "Zolli" is ideal for the whole family. Every day, the residents receive their food ration, offering a unique proximity. Pelicans and sea lions are fed at 3 p.m., with daily presentations and vivarium festivities at 3 and 4 p.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays. In winter, don't miss the majestic penguin walk from the vivarium deck.

This zoological park presents dozens of animals from the region: mammals of some twenty different species and hundreds of birds are represented. The park is further enriched by the presence of the Vivarium de la Chaux-de-Fonds, which presents vertebrates and invertebrates of numerous species. You'll discover both naturalized and live animals - a unique concept in Europe, hence the name "Muzoo", a fusion of museum and zoo.

Knie's Kinderzoo is home to around 400 animals representing 70 species for the greatest pleasure of the youngest... and their parents. In addition to the classic visit of the zoo, several activities are offered (some of them are not free of charge): giving breakfast to the monkeys in the morning or spending an hour in the giraffe, camel or sea lion enclosure. It is also possible to follow a caretaker during his work in order to get a better look behind the scenes. Everything is designed to educate children. There is also a restaurant overlooking the lake.

Located near Oberberg Castle, Walter Zoo is Switzerland's largest private zoo, with 500 animals and 130 different species: camels, wolves, tigers, leopards, llamas, kangaroos, jaguars, pumas, zebras, yaks, parrots, bears and many birds, not to mention a 1,250 m² chimpanzee park. Before your visit, don't forget to check the program on the website, as each day is punctuated by a series of appointments: pony rides in the morning, tiger meals in the morning, chimpanzee meals in the afternoon... These are moments not to be missed.

It's the only zoo in Ticino, with over 100 animals. Spending a day at the zoo gives families the chance to get up close and personal with animals such as lions, kangaroos and snakes, as well as enjoying play areas and picnic areas. Magliaso is renowned for its leisure and discovery facilities. Workshops are organized for children to raise their awareness of the animal world. The zoo tells a "beautiful" story: that of a couple infatuated with a lion cub that was due to be euthanized and whom they "saved" by taking him back to Switzerland.

For animal lovers, this park is well worth a visit. Shaded by trees, the setting is very pleasant, remaining cool in summer and charming under the snow. You can admire the superb snow panthers (more active in winter), the wolf pack, emus, bears, Siberian tigers, wallabys, lynx, bison, alpacas, macaws, mouflons... the wonder is endless. Excellent explanatory panels. In 2023, baby alpacas, wallabys and bison were born. Plan a day's visit - everything's included!