Plzeň Zoo covers 21 hectares of hilly, green ground at Pod Vinicemi 9, close to the city centre. It is a zoo and botanical garden in one, with lakes, an arboretum, rock faces and indoor and outdoor pavilions. The collection includes white kangaroos, Indian rhinos, Siberian tigers, giraffes, penguins and a Madagascar pavilion. Paths are wide and there are many places to rest, so the visit suits a slow pace. A former wartime bunker now holds the Underground World for nocturnal animals, and the DinoPark has large dinosaur models. Plan on at least half a day.
From the Radbuza to Lochotín
The zoo began in 1926, when the nature conservation group IRIS set up a small collection in the Doudlevka quarter near the Radbuza River. In 1963 it moved to its present site in Lochotín. In 1981 it merged with the city's botanical garden, which is why the full name is Zoologická a botanická zahrada města Plzně.
It is described as the second oldest zoological garden in Czechia, and it is one of the most visited attractions in the Plzeň Region. Since 1996 the 21-hectare site has been reshaped into a zoo-geographical bio-park, where the animals are grouped by the region of the world they come from.
Animals to look for
The main animals are giraffes, rhinos, lions, tigers, bears, penguins, flamingos, kangaroos, zebras and crocodiles. White kangaroos are the most unusual. Indian rhinos and Siberian tigers are also here. The zoo has made news for its work breeding the endangered maneless zebra.
The Madagascar pavilion is home to lemurs and a chimpanzee. Visitors have also seen an aardvark and an armadillo here. The Lüfterka farm keeps common domestic animals, which is a gentle stop for small children.
The animals are spread over the site by region. Similar species can be far apart, so lions, tigers and leopards are in completely separate sections. Look at the map at the start and mark what you most want to see.
Underground World and the DinoPark
The Underground World was rebuilt from a former wartime bunker inside the hill. It shows nocturnal animals and those that burrow beneath the ground. A walk-through tunnel system includes bats and rats behind glass.
The DinoPark has giant dinosaur models in realistic settings. It is a separate paid attraction. In winter the dinosaur exhibition inside the hill may be closed, with exhibits covered up, so check before you plan around it.
Walking the grounds
The terrain is hilly and varied, with lakes, an arboretum, rock faces and indoor and outdoor pavilions. There are Asian gardens as well, and the Japanese garden is a quiet corner. The grounds and animal houses are well kept, and the paths on the slopes are new or fairly new.
Some steep paths are slippery and have no handrails, so this is hard going for older visitors or anyone with limited mobility. The entrance and parking lot are wheelchair accessible.
There is a climbing playground and a playground for younger children, plus cafés and small shops. The terrace restaurant looks over the city. Benches and resting spots are placed throughout, so bringing snacks is practical. Dogs are allowed.
FAQ
How long do you need at Plzeň Zoo?
Plan for at least half a day. The grounds are large and hilly, and many visitors stay for the whole day.
Is the DinoPark included in the ticket?
No, the DinoPark is an extra charge. In winter the dinosaur exhibition inside the hill may be closed.
Is Plzeň Zoo good for children?
Yes. It has playgrounds, a climbing area, a farm with domestic animals, the DinoPark and cafés. The spacious layout suits family outings.
Is the zoo accessible for wheelchair users?
The entrance and parking lot are wheelchair accessible. Some paths on the slopes are steep and slippery without handrails, so they can be difficult for anyone with limited mobility.
Can you bring a dog?
Yes, dogs are allowed, including inside.
Is there parking at Plzeň Zoo?
Yes, there is a paid parking lot in front of the main entrance, and paid street parking nearby.
