The Parc Zoologique de Paris (Paris Zoological Park) is located in the Bois de Vincennes (Wood of Vincennes), the largest public park in Paris. At the zoo, you can observe animal behaviour in environments designed to replicate their natural habitats. There are 5 biozones for you to explore, one of the most popular being a large greenhouse that shelters a tropical rainforest climate.

Besides its wildlife, the Parc Zoologique de Paris attracts visitors with its beautiful park scenery and an artificial rock that stands 65 metres tall, making it visible from most areas of the park. You’ll also find botanical gardens, nature trails and plenty of space for a picnic in the Bois de Vincennes.

Whether you want to discover wildlife, explore nature or simply relax in one of the most beautiful outdoor spaces in Paris, you won’t regret paying a visit to the Parc Zoologique de Paris.

Parc Zoologique de Paris - one of the highlights of 10 Best Family Things to Do in Paris (Read all about Paris here)

What are the highlights of Parc Zoologique de Paris?

The Parc Zoologique de Paris, which spans 14 hectares, is separated into 5 biozones. Covering an area of around 4.5 hectares, the Africa biozone is the largest zone in the zoo. This is where you can see rare animals such as white rhinos, West African lions, and zebras. If you’re more interested in learning about rare and diverse fauna, you should visit the Amazon-Guyana biozone, which replicates tropical weather conditions.

For a journey into a tropical rainforest, head to the Madagascar biozone, which is populated by colourful birds and animals like fruit bats and lemurs. In the Patagonia biozone, you can check out animals that typically reside around rocky coasts and the dramatic landscapes of the Patagonia region. Head to the Europe biozone for a closer look at the ecosystems of Europe.

What else can you do at Parc Zoologique de Paris?

You can keep the entire family entertained at the Parc Zoologique de Paris for the entire day thanks to the range of activities on offer. The kids can watch Europe’s largest herd of giraffes enjoy their first meal of the day, though bear in mind that direct contact with the giraffes is prohibited due to the welfare of the animals. Other animals you can observe during feeding time include seals and pumas.

Learn about the high standards of animal welfare at the Parc Zoologique de Paris by joining a tour that teaches you about the professions of ‘healers’ and the natural lives of the animals.

Remember that you need to make reservations in advance to meet animals such as manatees, tropical birds, and lemurs, though tours are available year-round.

Good to know about Parc Zoologique de Paris

The Parc Zoologique de Paris is served by Paris Metro lines 1 and 8, with the closest station being Porte Dorée. The zoo is in the 12th arrondissement of Paris, within the 995-hectare Bois de Vincennes. While you’re visiting the park, don’t forget to check out attractions such as the English landscape garden that contains 4 lakes, the Hippodrome de Vincennes, the Parc Floral de Paris botanical gardens, and the Arboretum de l'École du Breuil.

Just outside the park and zoo, you’ll find impressive landmarks like the Château de Vincennes, a former royal residence with origins dating back to the 14th century. Before leaving the 12th arrondissement of Paris, you might want to visit the Opéra de la Bastille (one of the largest opera houses in Paris) and Musée du Cinema. 

Parc Zoologique de Paris

Location: Avenue Daumesnil, 75012 Paris, France

Phone: +33 (0)811 224 122

Joshua Saunders | Contributing Writer