Erlebnis-Zoo Hannover, also called Hannover Adventure Zoo, covers 22 hectares at Adenauerallee 1 and is built as seven themed worlds. You ride a boat along the Zambezi, walk through Yukon Bay with its polar bears and penguins, and pass an Indian jungle palace and Gorilla Mountain. Keepers give shows with sealions, seals and an eagle. The paths are easy to walk, with shade and playgrounds along the way, so the zoo suits a full day with children as well as a slower visit for animal lovers.
Seven themed worlds on 22 hectares
The zoo is laid out as a series of landscapes, each styled in detail after a region of the world. You can see African animals from a boat on the Zambezi, walk through the Canadian wilderness of Yukon Bay, or cross into the Australian Outback. Other areas include an Indian jungle palace and Gorilla Mountain.
Meyers Hof is a rural Lower Saxony farm, and Mullewapp is a children's area based on the books of Helme Heine. The theming reaches the sound level too. One visitor noted that the Yukon area even includes sound effects.
The zoo is known for keeping and breeding elephants and antelopes, and drills are also among its residents. Penguins live in an unusual setting, in enclosures styled as ghost ships.
Yukon Bay and the Yukon Queen
Yukon Bay sits at the far end of the zoo and is the most elaborate of the worlds. The story behind it is that a freighter, the Yukon Queen, has run aground in the harbour basin on its way back from a fictional trip to South Africa. Polar bears, penguins and seals live around and on the ship.
The area is also home to caribou, timber wolves, bison and fur seals. Because it lies at the back, it works well as a turning point in a day that follows the paths around the whole site.
Boat ride, shows and feedings
The boat trip on the Zambezi is a favourite with visitors because some animals are easier to see from the water. One visitor reported that the ride costs nothing extra on top of the entry ticket.
Keepers give shows in which animals such as sealions, seals and an eagle are presented, and there are feeding sessions through the day. Information booths along the way explain how people affect wildlife habitats, and a parent reported that these held the attention of a seven-year-old. There is also an underwater station. Summer toboggan runs are part of the offer for children.
From 1865 to today
Hannover Zoo opened in 1865 and is the fifth oldest zoo in Germany. Its history has had breaks. It closed from 1922 to 1924 because of financial difficulties and reopened after a citizens' initiative. Later the Ruhe animal trading company from Alfeld became involved, and the zoo grew into something of a showcase for the firm. In the early 1970s it passed into the ownership of the city of Hannover.
The themed worlds came much later and changed the character of the site. Part of the grounds can be under construction, so some areas may be fenced off during a visit.
Getting around and planning the day
The paths are easy to walk, and one visitor on a very hot day found plenty of shade and rest areas. Good walking shoes are enough for the distances involved. Wheelchair users will find an accessible entrance, accessible restrooms and accessible parking. Leashed dogs are allowed inside.
On busy days families fill the paths and gather at the enclosures. Large handcarts used to carry belongings can take up space on the walkways. A visit in a quiet month such as October can feel almost empty, and arriving early or on a weekday helps you reach the enclosures with fewer people around.
The zoo has cafes, restaurants, a petting zoo and a gift shop. Food choices inside are limited, and prices are about what you would expect at a zoo.
Preguntas frecuentes
How long do you need at Erlebnis-Zoo Hannover?
Plan on a few hours at the least. Many visitors spend the full day, for example from about 10:00 to 16:00, especially with children and the playgrounds.
Should I buy tickets in advance?
Yes, advance tickets are recommended. With an online ticket you scan it at the gate and walk straight in.
Is the boat ride included?
The Zambezi boat ride is reported to be free with entry. It is also one of the best places to see some of the animals.
Are dogs allowed?
Yes, leashed dogs are allowed inside the zoo.
Is the zoo accessible for wheelchair users?
The zoo has a wheelchair accessible entrance, restrooms, seating and parking.
Is there parking?
Yes, there is a paid parking lot and a paid parking garage. Parking is charged separately from the entry ticket.
