If you’re planning a trip to Paris and looking for a break from the city’s hustle and bustle, the Paris Zoological Park is a solid choice. This attraction has earned a reputation for being a well-maintained, family-friendly zoo with a focus on spacious, natural habitats. It’s a place where you can get close to animals from different continents while enjoying the results of recent upgrades.
What we really like about this experience is how the zoo’s recent refurbishment has transformed the landscape into more natural, roomy enclosures—it’s a noticeable improvement that benefits both the animals and visitors. Plus, with a ticket that offers good value for money, it’s accessible for most travelers. The downside? It’s not huge compared to some other zoos, so if you’re expecting a full-day adventure, you might want to plan your visit carefully.
This tour suits those who love animals, enjoy leisurely strolls, or are traveling with family—especially if you’re visiting Paris and want a relaxing, educational outing. Keep in mind that it’s a day out that works best with at least a few hours to explore comfortably.
Key Points

- Well-Refurbished and Spacious: The zoo underwent a two-year upgrade, resulting in large, naturalistic habitats.
- Diverse Biozones: From Madagascar to Patagonia, the variety of environments offers a well-rounded experience.
- Great for Families: Plenty of opportunities for kids to see animals and enjoy the laid-back setting.
- Affordable Entry: At around $26 per person, it provides good value considering the variety of animals.
- Accessible for All: The park is wheelchair friendly, with convenient facilities and shaded benches.
- Time Commitment: Expect at least 3-4 hours to see everything without rushing.
An In-Depth Look at the Paris Zoological Park

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Location and How to Find It
The zoo is located at the intersection of Avenue Daumesnil and Ceinture du Lac in the 12th arrondissement, making it relatively easy to reach by public transport or car. Some reviews mention that getting there via Uber or taxi can be tricky if you’re not familiar with the area, so it’s a good idea to write down the full address to avoid confusion.
Entrance and Ticketing
The ticket price is around $26 per person, which many visitors find reasonable for what’s offered. One perk is the skip-the-line access through a separate entrance, saving you time during busy hours. The tickets are valid for a whopping 700 days, so you can plan your visit well in advance or even return if you love it.
What to Expect When You Arrive
Once inside, you’ll notice the refurbished state of the park—the enclosures look modern, spacious, and designed with the animals’ well-being in mind. The park is divided into five biozones, each representing different parts of the world: Europe, Madagascar, Africa, Patagonia, and the Amazon. This setup helps in understanding the animals’ natural habitats and adds an educational element.
More Great Tours NearbyExploring the Biozones
The African zone is especially popular, featuring lions, giraffes, zebras, and more. Expect to see these animals in enclosures that mimic their natural environment fairly well, according to numerous reviews. “In the African zone, expect sightings of lions, giraffes, and zebras,” says one visitor. Such areas are often busy but manageable, thanks to the thoughtful layout.
The European zone offers sightings of wolves, lynxes, and otters, giving a glimpse into local wildlife or European species. You might find the overall setup calm and scenic, with many benches for resting and taking in the views.
The Amazon zone is a highlight, hosting jaguars, monkeys, and colorful macaws. Reviewers mention that the Reptile and fish sections add a touch of variety, especially if you’re into reptiles or aquatic life. The recently refreshed habitats seem to have paid off, with many visitors noting how healthy and content the animals look.
Patagonia features penguins, pumas, and pudus, filling out the global diversity. The large enclosures and naturalistic settings help create a more immersive experience. Several reviews mention how the enclosures are quite large and thoughtfully designed.
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Animal Encounters and Highlights
While the zoo does not run scheduled shows, many visitors enjoy watching the animals being fed—a chance to see their behaviors up close. Some reviews mention that staff are friendly and knowledgeable, which adds to the educational value and overall enjoyment.
Facilities and Comfort
The zoo is said to be clean and well-maintained, with plenty of shaded benches and picnic areas, making it easy to take breaks. One review notes, “If you are tired, there are many benches everywhere, all in shady spots.” Food options are available on-site, but some reviews mention that the cafe’s food is overpriced and not particularly high quality, so bringing snacks might be a good idea.
Accessibility and Practical Tips
The park is wheelchair accessible, which is a big plus. Be aware that the last admission is an hour before closing, so plan your visit accordingly. Rental equipment must be returned at least 30 minutes before the park closes, so pace yourself.
What the Reviews Say
Feedback is overwhelmingly positive, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 based on 1,450 reviews. Many visitors praise the variety of animals, the spacious enclosures, and friendly staff. One visitor from the UK said, “Nice day out, plenty to see, and I spent the whole day with my family,” which gives you an idea of how a typical visit unfolds.
Some smaller critiques include overpriced gift shops and minor issues with signage or location. However, these don’t seem to detract significantly from the overall positive experience.
Who Should Consider Visiting?

If you’re traveling with family or simply love animals, the zoo is a good choice. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate naturalistic, spacious habitats and want to learn about animals from different parts of the world. It may not satisfy those looking for a massive, all-day adventure or expecting elephants and other large land mammals, but for a relaxed, well-curated outing, it hits the mark.
Final Thoughts

The Paris Zoological Park offers a thoughtful, well-maintained glimpse into global wildlife, nestled comfortably within the city. Its recent upgrades greatly enhance the visitor experience, creating environments where animals can thrive and visitors can learn without feeling overwhelmed by crowds or poor facilities.
Pricing is fair, especially considering the quality and variety of animals, and the park’s layout makes it easy to navigate at your own pace. Whether you’re a dedicated animal lover or just seeking a peaceful day with a touch of nature, this zoo is likely to satisfy.
For those who prioritize spacious, natural habitats and educational value, this park checks many boxes. It’s particularly appealing for families, but even solo travelers or couples will find plenty to enjoy.
Paris: Paris Zoological Park Entrance Ticket
FAQs
Is the Paris Zoological Park accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the park is wheelchair accessible, making it easy for visitors with mobility needs to explore comfortably.
How long does a typical visit take?
Most visitors recommend allowing at least 3-4 hours to see everything without rushing, especially if you want to enjoy the exhibits and take breaks.
Can I buy tickets in advance?
Absolutely. Your tickets are valid for 700 days, and purchasing in advance allows you to skip the line through a separate entrance.
What’s the price of admission?
The entrance ticket costs around $26 per person, which many find reasonable for the variety and quality of the experience.
Are there food options available inside the zoo?
Yes, there are food and drinks available, but reviews suggest they can be overpriced and not of the best quality. Bringing snacks might be a good idea.
Is the zoo suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention it as a family-friendly place, with plenty of space and interesting animals to keep kids engaged, especially in the biozones.
What should I bring?
A camera is recommended to capture the animals and scenery. Comfortable shoes and hats for sun protection are also a smart idea.
Is the zoo crowded?
It can get busy, especially during weekends or peak times, but many visitors note that it’s still manageable, and the layout helps avoid feeling overwhelmed.
What is the best time to visit?
Weekdays tend to be less crowded, and visiting in the morning or late afternoon might provide a more relaxed experience.
If you’re after a relaxing, educational, and animal-filled outing in Paris, the zoo is worth considering. Its recent upgrades, diversity of animals, and reasonable price point make it a solid choice for a day that’s both fun and enriching.
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