Top 10 Zoos with Maras 2026

Leipzig Zoological Garden, located in the heart of Leipzig, offers visitors the chance to explore a fascinating wilderness within the city. The zoo is renowned for its diverse range of animal species and its naturalistic habitats, which are spread across six exciting themed worlds. Open 365 days a year, guests can embark on discovery tours and learn about the importance of nature and species conservation. The zoo regularly hosts special events, evening experiences, and cultural activities, making it a vibrant destination for families and animal enthusiasts alike. Visitors can also support the zoo's mission through sponsorships, donations, or animal adoptions, contributing to the well-being of both resident and endangered animals worldwide.

ZooParc de Beauval, commonly known as Beauval Zoo, is a renowned zoological park located in Saint-Aignan-sur-Cher in the Centre-Val de Loire region of France. Established in 1980 by Françoise Delord, the zoo began as a bird park and has since grown into one of the largest and most diverse animal collections in France and Europe. Today, Beauval Zoo spans 40 hectares and is home to over 35,000 animals representing 800 species, including rare and endangered species such as giant pandas, okapis, tree kangaroos, and koalas. The zoo is famous for being the first in France to present leucistic big cats like white tigers and white lions, which significantly boosted its popularity. Visitors can explore a variety of themed zones, including expansive greenhouses for birds and great apes, large plains for African and Asian herbivores, and unique attractions like a free-flight bird show and a sea lion basin. Beauval Zoo is also a leader in conservation, participating in European Endangered Species Programmes and supporting wildlife reintroduction efforts.

Wilhelma Zoological and Botanical Garden, located in Stuttgart, Germany, is a unique combination of zoo and botanical garden. It is renowned for its historical architecture, originally built as a royal palace in the mid-19th century, which now houses a diverse collection of animals and plants. Visitors can explore a wide variety of animal species from around the world, as well as extensive botanical displays, including greenhouses and themed gardens. The zoo regularly hosts educational events and interactive programs for children and families. Wilhelma is also actively involved in global conservation projects, supporting the protection of endangered species and habitats.

Munich Zoo Hellabrunn, also known as Tierpark Hellabrunn, is a renowned zoological park located in Munich, Germany. Established in 1911, it is recognized as the world's first geo-zoo, where animals are grouped according to their geographic origins rather than species. The zoo is home to more than 500 animal species from all five continents, offering visitors the chance to experience a wide variety of habitats, from the African savanna to the icy polar world, within a short walking distance. Hellabrunn is open 365 days a year, providing educational opportunities about nature conservation and the protection of animal habitats. Visitors can also enjoy interactive experiences such as a petting zoo and guided tours for families and children.

Assiniboine Park Zoo is a prominent zoological park located within Assiniboine Park in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. The zoo is known for its diverse range of animal exhibits and engaging visitor experiences. Throughout the year, the zoo hosts special exhibits such as 'Monsters of the Abyss' and 'Dinosaurs UnCovered', offering unique educational opportunities for guests of all ages. Visitors can also participate in daily Zoo Chats to learn more about their favorite animals. The zoo is part of the larger Assiniboine Park, which features expansive greenspaces, gardens, and scenic pathways enjoyed by millions annually.

Zoo Linz, also known as Tiergarten Linz, is located halfway up the Pöstlingberg hill, adjacent to the Urfahrwänd nature reserve, and offers visitors a stunning view of the city of Linz. The zoo is a scientifically managed, non-profit institution dedicated to the care and preservation of animal species, especially those threatened with extinction. Covering nearly 4 hectares, Zoo Linz is home to around 600 animals from approximately 100 different species, both exotic and native. Visitors can explore beautifully designed outdoor enclosures featuring animals such as meerkats, zebras, red pandas, antelopes, kangaroos, and parrots, as well as a modern tropical house for caimans, giant snakes, and monkeys. The zoo also features a 'House of Biodiversity' with many small exotic species, a petting area with dwarf goats, a rabbit tunnel, and an 'Alpine hut' with scenic views, making it a memorable experience for families.

Marwell Zoo is a popular family attraction located in Hampshire, England, offering visitors the chance to explore a large outdoor park filled with a diverse range of animals. The zoo is set within a 140-acre park, providing ample space for both animals and guests to enjoy. Visitors can expect to see hundreds of animals, including giraffes, leopards, meerkats, penguins, and more, making it an exciting destination for animal lovers. The zoo features several adventure play areas for children, animal feeding experiences (subject to availability), as well as cafés and a gift shop to enhance the visitor experience. Marwell Zoo is also involved in global conservation efforts, supporting species such as snow leopards, scimitar-horned oryx, and sand lizards, and operates as a charity.

Wildlife Park Lagos, also known as Zoo de Lagos, is a zoological park located in Lagos, Portugal. The zoo is home to over 170 species from five different continents, offering visitors a diverse and educational experience. It is dedicated to conservation and provides opportunities for guests to learn about animals from around the world. The park also hosts birthday celebrations and features an online shop with exclusive animal-themed merchandise. Visitors can expect a family-friendly environment with a focus on wildlife appreciation and global biodiversity.

Zoo Duisburg is a renowned zoological garden located in Duisburg, Germany. The zoo is known for its creative and unique animal experiences, including special activities such as pygmy hippos creating artwork for charity. Visitors can expect a diverse range of animal exhibits and engaging events throughout the year. The zoo emphasizes interactive and innovative ways to connect guests with wildlife. Its service office offers exclusive animal-made art pieces for a minimum donation, adding a distinctive touch to the visitor experience.

Chapultepec Zoo, officially known as Zoológico de Chapultepec "Alfonso L. Herrera", is one of the most historic and renowned zoos in Mexico. It was founded on October 27, 1924, by the naturalist Alfonso Luis Herrera during the final days of President Álvaro Obregón's administration. The zoo is located in the first section of Chapultepec Park, a major urban green space in Mexico City. Visitors can expect to see around 2,000 animals, including the famous giant panda Xin Xin, who is the last surviving giant panda in Latin America and a direct descendant of the legendary panda Tohui. The zoo is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, offering free admission and a wide variety of wildlife habitats.