Top 5 Zoos with Gorilla 2026

The San Diego Zoo Safari Park, located in Escondido, California, is a renowned wildlife sanctuary and adventure park operated by the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance. Established as a sister park to the famous San Diego Zoo, it offers visitors the unique opportunity to experience animals in expansive, naturalistic habitats. The park is especially known for its large, open-range enclosures where herds of animals roam freely, simulating their native environments. One of its newest attractions, the Denny Sanford Elephant Valley, allows guests to come face-to-face with the largest land animals on Earth. Visitors can choose from a variety of safari experiences, including behind-the-scenes tours, cart safaris, and even overnight 'Roar & Snore' adventures.

La Vallée des Singes is a unique zoological park in France, specializing exclusively in primates. Located in Romagne, near Poitiers and the Futuroscope in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, the park covers 22 hectares of shaded paths, streams, and waterfalls, offering a natural and immersive environment. Since its creation, the park has welcomed over 450 primates living in semi-liberty, with no cages or barriers, allowing visitors to observe the animals up close in a setting that closely resembles their natural habitats. The park is renowned for its impressive record of 900 primate births, including rare and delicate species such as gorillas, bonobos, and woolly monkeys. Visitors can expect to see a wide variety of primate species, including squirrel monkeys, golden lion tamarins, mandrills, and gibbons, all thriving on verdant islands designed for their well-being.

The Detroit Zoo is a major zoological park located in Michigan, known for its expansive naturalistic habitats and diverse animal collection. Established as a leader in animal care and welfare, the zoo is home to more than 2,000 animals representing over 200 species, offering visitors the chance to see everything from leaping frogs to roaring lions. The zoo frequently introduces new exhibits and interactive experiences, such as the Erb Discovery Trails, a seven-acre adventure area designed for hands-on and up-close encounters with animals. Visitors can expect a blend of educational programs, behind-the-scenes experiences, and seasonal events that make each visit unique. The Detroit Zoo is also actively involved in global conservation efforts, supporting wildlife and habitats on all seven continents.

Ouwehands Zoo, known in Dutch as Ouwehands Dierenpark, is a well-known zoological park located in the Netherlands. The zoo is home to a diverse range of animal species, including rare and exotic animals such as giant pandas, orangutans, clouded leopards, bonobos, and polar bears. Visitors can enjoy daily animal talks and interactive programs, providing educational and entertaining experiences for all ages. The zoo is also known for hosting special events like Light Nights, where creative animal-themed art comes to life. Ouwehands Zoo offers a unique opportunity to observe animals up close in thoughtfully designed habitats, making it a popular destination for families and wildlife enthusiasts.

Zoo Basel, also known as Zolli, is a renowned zoological garden located in Basel, Switzerland. It is one of the oldest and most visited zoos in Switzerland, attracting visitors from around the world. The zoo is celebrated for its commitment to animal care, conservation, and education, offering a diverse range of species in thoughtfully designed habitats. Visitors can expect to see a wide variety of animals, from exotic mammals and birds to reptiles and aquatic life. The zoo provides engaging experiences for families and animal enthusiasts, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.

Bristol Zoo, now known as the Bristol Zoo Project, is a renowned zoological park located near Cribbs Causeway, just off junction 17 of the M5 motorway. The zoo features a wide variety of animals from around the world, including a notable gorilla troop in its newly opened African Forest habitat. Visitors can expect engaging experiences such as after-hours events with live music, animal talks, and special trails like the Shaun and friends Wildlife Mission. The zoo is committed to conservation, working in 10 countries across four continents to protect species and habitats. As a conservation charity, Bristol Zoo Project offers memberships that allow unlimited visits and exclusive benefits, making it a popular destination for families and wildlife enthusiasts.

Madrid Zoo, officially known as Zoo Aquarium de Madrid, is a prominent zoological park located in the Casa de Campo area of Madrid, Spain. The zoo is renowned for its combination of a traditional zoo and a large aquarium, offering visitors the chance to see a wide variety of terrestrial and aquatic animals in one place. It is a popular destination for families and tourists, featuring educational exhibits and interactive experiences such as sea lion and exotic bird shows. The zoo is involved in conservation and research efforts, particularly focusing on endangered species and public awareness. Visitors can expect a full day of exploration, learning, and entertainment, with opportunities to observe animals from around the world and participate in unique animal encounters.