Arnhem: Burgers’ Zoo Entry Ticket

Exploring Burgers’ Zoo: A Natural Adventure in Arnhem

If you’re considering a visit to Arnhem and love the idea of seeing animals in environments that mimic their natural habitats, Burgers’ Zoo is one of the top options. This zoo isn’t just about wandering through cages—it’s about stepping into realistic, large-scale eco-displays where animals, plants, and visitors coexist in settings that feel surprisingly authentic.

What we really appreciate about Burgers’ Zoo is its focus on large habitats like the indoor jungle and the giant mangrove, giving you a sense of being transported to different parts of the world without leaving Gelderland. Plus, the immersive environment means you’ll experience the sounds, smells, and textures of each ecosystem, making your visit more engaging.

However, it’s worth noting that some visitors feel the zoo is a bit on the smaller side, especially given the entrance fee. We’ll unpack that further, but overall, this experience suits nature enthusiasts, families, and those who enjoy a thoughtfully curated zoo experience that’s more about atmosphere than sheer size.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Eco-Display Focus: Large-scale habitats like jungles, deserts, and mangroves.
• Immersive Environments: Feel the humidity, sounds, and smells of real ecosystems.
• Educational and Fun: Discover wildlife from butterflies to manatees in naturalistic settings.
• Cost and Duration: About $32 per person, with an 8-hour visit—check availability for starting times.
• Accessibility and Convenience: Skip the lines and enjoy wheelchair-friendly options.
• Potential Drawbacks: Some might find it a bit small or expensive relative to size.

A Deep Dive into Burgers’ Zoo: What to Expect

When you arrive at Burgers’ Zoo, you’re stepping into what I’d describe as a well-thought-out journey through the world’s ecosystems. The entire complex spans 45 hectares, and the design makes it easy to explore each section without feeling overwhelmed or rushed.

The Tropical Rainforest: The Bush

The first stop that really sticks with visitors is the Tropical Rainforest or “the Bush.” It opened back in 1988, and it’s a standout for anyone craving a sensory overload—imagine humidity so thick you can feel it on your skin, dense vegetation, and the sounds of birds and insects. It’s like stepping into a real jungle, and you almost forget you’re in the Netherlands. We loved the way the environment is recreated with such attention to detail, giving you a sense of adventure without leaving Europe.

The rainforest is home to a variety of creatures, but the star of this area is the butterflies—a vibrant, fluttering spectacle. It’s a hit with kids and adults alike, especially if you’re into photography or just love observing insects in their colorful glory.

The Desert: Mexican-American Rock Desert & Vultures

Next, we move into the Desert, specifically the Mexican-American rock desert. This is where you’ll see vultures soaring overhead, a reminder of the wild, sometimes harsh environments these birds call home. The desert habitat is designed to showcase the creatures that have adapted to extreme conditions, offering an educational glimpse into desert life.

While it might not be the most lively part of the zoo, it’s a good contrast to the lush rainforest, and the vultures are quite impressive to watch. Keep in mind, some visitors mentioned that the zoo is “kleiner” (smaller), which might make this section feel a bit limited if you’re expecting expansive open spaces.

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Underwater Marvels: Coral Reef and the Ocean

The coral reef and the Indo-Pacific Ocean section are likely to be favorites for those interested in marine life. Here, you’ll get a chance to see many different species of crabs, stunning coral formations, and the aquatic environment recreated with impressive realism. The indoor water display of 8 million liters of water adds to the sense of being underwater.

If you’re into aquariums or just enjoy the peaceful allure of ocean life, this part of Burgers’ Zoo offers a calming yet fascinating experience. It’s a chance to learn about marine biodiversity in an environment that’s both educational and visually striking.

The Savannah: Giraffes and Rhinos

The savannah habitat is where you’ll find giraffes and rhinos wandering across open plains. It’s quite charming to see these majestic animals in a habitat that resembles their natural environment. We loved how spacious the area appears, allowing animals to roam freely without feeling confined. Watching giraffes stretching their long necks to nibble on treetops is a highlight, and it’s a great spot for photography.

The Rimba: Malay Rainforest

Finally, the Rimba area features a recreated Malay rainforest, rounding out the zoo’s diversity of ecosystems. It’s lush, vibrant, and teeming with life, giving visitors a chance to see tropical flora and fauna in a setting that feels genuinely tropical.

The Indoor Mangrove: The Largest in the World

A standout feature is the indoor mangrove, inspired by Belize, which is claimed to be the largest indoor mangrove in the world. This indoor ecosystem allows you to observe butterflies, manatees, and multiple species of crabs in a habitat that mimics the coastal mangroves. We found this area particularly fascinating because it combines education and conservation efforts in a way that feels accessible.

Practical Tips for Visiting Burgers’ Zoo

The entire visit can comfortably fill around 8 hours, giving plenty of time to explore each section and take breaks. The ticket price of $32 per person feels reasonable given the variety and quality of the habitats, but some reviews suggest it might be a bit steep for what is essentially a smaller zoo. Still, the experience is immersive enough to justify the cost for many.

You’ll want to check availability for starting times—the tour offers flexible scheduling—and remember, there’s an option to reserve and pay later, which helps if your plans aren’t 100% firm yet.

Parking is available at an additional fee of €8.50, and if you’re traveling with mobility issues, the zoo is wheelchair accessible, making it manageable for most visitors.

What’s Included and What’s Not

What’s great is that your admission includes access to the entire zoo, including the indoor habitats and all eco-displays. Food and beverages are not included, so planning ahead for snacks or meals is a good idea, especially since the visit can be quite lengthy.

What the Reviews Say

Most visitors give Burgers’ Zoo a stellar rating of 4.8 out of 5, praising the beautiful habitats and the realistic environments. One review called it a “small zoo, very beautiful but completely overpriced,” which hints at the fact that size might be a concern for some, especially when comparing entry fee to the overall space.

Another reviewer might note that, despite its smaller size, the zoo’s focus on eco-ecosystems and environmental education makes it worth the visit. The immersive nature of the habitats is often highlighted as a major plus, offering a more authentic experience than traditional zoos.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is perfect for nature lovers who enjoy observing animals in habitats that mimic their natural environment. It’s also well-suited for families with curious kids, as the immersive environments keep young minds engaged. If you’re into aquatic life, the underwater sections are particularly compelling.

On the flip side, if you’re expecting a massive zoo with endless pathways and vast animal collections, Burgers’ Zoo might feel a bit limited in scope. The price, while justified by the quality of the experiences, could also be a sticking point for budget-conscious travelers.

Final Thoughts

Burgers’ Zoo in Arnhem offers more than just a zoo; it’s a thoughtful exhibit of ecosystems that lets you feel closer to nature in a controlled setting. The large, naturalistic habitats and diverse ecosystems—from tropical rainforests to mangroves—stand out as a real highlight, especially if you’re looking for an experience that’s educational but also visually and sensorially engaging.

While some might find the size a little underwhelming or the entrance fee slightly high, overall, it provides a well-rounded, meaningful encounter with wildlife and habitats from around the world. It’s a solid choice if you’re prioritizing environmental education, immersive environments, and animal observation in a setting that’s manageable within a day.

If you’re visiting Arnhem and want something different from traditional zoos or museums, Burgers’ Zoo could very well be the highlight of your trip—especially if you’re eager to see animals in environments that feel almost like stepping into their natural worlds.

FAQs

Is Burgers’ Zoo suitable for children?
Yes, children generally love the immersive habitats, especially the indoor jungle and mangrove. The environments are engaging and educational, making it fun for younger visitors.

How long does a typical visit last?
Most visitors spend around 8 hours exploring the zoo, which allows enough time to see all the eco-displays and take breaks.

Can I skip the ticket line?
Absolutely. Your ticket includes a skip-the-line feature, making entry smoother, especially during busy times.

Is the zoo wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the entire zoo is wheelchair friendly, so it’s accessible for most visitors with mobility issues.

What’s included in the admission price?
Your ticket grants access to all the habitats and eco-displays. Food, beverages, and parking cost extra.

Are there specific start times I should be aware of?
Yes, check the availability for starting times. The tours run with scheduled slots, so planning ahead is recommended.

What about parking?
Parking is available at an additional cost of €8.50. It’s convenient and close to the entrance.

Is there any recommended age for visitors?
While suitable for all ages, the habitats and live animals are especially engaging for families with kids, but adults will find plenty to enjoy too.

Overall, Burgers’ Zoo offers a compelling glimpse into different ecosystems, especially if you value environments that feel authentic and alive. It’s a place that’s worth considering if you’re in the Arnhem area and looking to connect with nature in a meaningful way.

You can check availability for your dates here: