Zoo Leipzig is one of the most renowned zoological parks in Germany and in Europe. Located in the city of Leipzig, the zoo was founded on June 9, 1878. It has a long history of conservation, education, and research.
With captivating habitats of animals from around the globe, Zoo Leipzig offers up-close encounters with the wonders of the natural world. Visitors can explore vibrant exhibits, partake in educational activities, and discover the vital importance of wildlife conservation.
This guide is your trusted companion to Zoo Leipzig Germany, helping you make the most of your visit. Learn about the incredible species that call the zoo home and have fun in one of the main Leipzig attractions. Whether you’re seeking heartwarming animal interactions, interactive learning, or a day of joy-filled exploration, Zoo Leipzig has something magical for everyone.
The best things to see and do at Zoo Leipzig ✨
Zoo Leipzig is home to a diverse collection of animals from around the world. It houses over 600 species and 100 alternative species, ranging from mammals and birds to reptiles and amphibians. The zoo’s habitats are designed to resemble the natural environments of the animals as closely as possible. There are lots of fun things to experience here, not least of which are the zoo’s animals.
1. Experience the “Zoo of the Future”
Zoo Leipzig has been recognized for its innovative and forward-thinking approach. It’s often referred to as the “zoo of the future.” Modern zoos are evolving from mere entertainment venues to educational and conservation centers. Zoo Leipzig’s dedication to research and education, plus its active involvement in conservation reflects this shift in the purpose of zoos in society.
The architecture and design of Zoo Leipzig incorporate sustainability and energy efficiency. Gondwanaland Leipzig employs innovative technology to maintain its rainforest climate while minimizing environmental impact. This focus on sustainable design aligns with the future-oriented approach of modern zoos. Zoo Leipzig doesn’t just display animals; it also serves as an educational hub, promoting awareness about wildlife conservation, ecological issues, and the importance of biodiversity.
The zoo fosters a sense of stewardship for the natural world among its visitors, particularly the younger generation. It does this via interactive displays, guided tours, workshops, and educational programs.
2. Walk through history in the Founder’s Garden
Zoo Leipzig was established with the goal of not only showcasing exotic animals but also providing education and promoting conservation. It has evolved over the years, expanding its facilities and focusing on creating natural habitats for animals. The Founder’s Garden is the first section visitors will encounter at Zoo Leipzig, where founder Ernst Pinkert laid the first stone in 1878.
Highlights of this area include adorable koalas and budgerigars from Australia, along with tiny tamarin monkeys. There’s also an aquarium here where visitors can view sharks, rays, colorful fish, jellyfish, and seahorses from underwater viewing tanks.
3. Visit Germany’s biggest tropical hall rainforests in Gondwanaland
One of the standout features of Zoo Leipzig is the Gondwanaland Tropical Experience Hall – one of the largest indoor rainforest halls in the world covering an area of approximately 16,500 square meters. Gondwanaland aims to recreate the flora and fauna of the ancient supercontinent Gondwana. It provides visitors with an immersive journey through a lush rainforest environment.
The hall is home to a diverse range of plant and animal species that are typical of rainforest ecosystems. Visitors can encounter exotic birds, reptiles, butterflies, and even free-ranging animals that move about the space. The immersive experience includes artificial waterfalls, flowing streams, and pools that also provide a habitat for aquatic creatures. Gondwanaland even offers boat tours that take visitors on a tranquil watery journey!
4. Monkey around in Pongoland
Pongoland is a unique and innovative section within Zoo Leipzig that focuses on great apes, particularly orangutans, gorillas, bonobos, and chimpanzees. Pongoland aims to provide these intelligent creatures with environments that encourage natural behaviors, while also offering visitors an educational and informative experience.
This section of the zoo is also home to the Max Planck-Institut Primate Research Center. Visitors may be able to watch over the shoulders of researchers who are studying the behavior of these great apes, especially if you visit early in the morning.
5. Catch a glimpse of swimming elephants in Asia
Theme World Asia has replicated diverse habitats found across the Asian continent. These range from tropical rainforests to Himalayan mountain landscapes and more. Each habitat has been carefully designed to provide a suitable environment for the species it hosts. Visitors can see Snow Leopards, Red Pandas, Indian Sloth Bears, and Przewalski horses here.
One of the highlights of Theme World Asia is the Asian Elephants’ home, called Ganesha Mandir. This is one of the most modern elephant enclosures in Europe, and even includes an underground viewing area where guests are often treated to the sight of the elephants swimming from underwater!
6. Go on a safari in Africa
Of course, no visit to any zoo is complete without seeing some of the most iconic animals that call the African continent home. Zoo Leipzig has a vast 25,000 m2 Kiwara Savannah habitat where visitors can watch giraffes, zebras, ostriches, oryx, and gazelles wander the plains.
The big cats are definitely the number one residents here though, with magnificent African lions and Southern cheetahs to see. There are also laughing hyenas and adorable meerkats, so every animal lover will be excited about something!
7. See the diverse landscapes and animals of South America
If you happen to get tired of lions and tigers and bears (oh my!) then head to the South America section for a refreshing change of pace. This continent is home to a wide variety of landscapes and environments, which is also reflected at Zoo Leipzig. From llamas to flamingos, capybaras, and the elusive maned wolf; this is a fascinating area to explore.
Most exciting of all, a new Tierra del Fuego habitat will be opening in 2025, with opportunities for visitors to see South American penguin and seal species. This huge section will feature underwater viewing areas along with a wave machine to recreate the feeling of being at sea.
8. Take advantage of fun activities for kids!
One of the main reasons that Zoo Leipzig is a great destination for families is the fact that it offers so much for young children to enjoy. For example, there are play areas throughout the zoo as well as interactive learning stations.
The awesome Entdeckerhaus Arche has recently reopened, allowing visitors the chance to once again experience conservation through interactive multimedia displays. 360 degrees of immersive projections show the actions that Zoo Leipzig has taken to save several species worldwide. This is bound to inspire young visitors.
All of that, plus a number of new animal babies have recently been born, including 4 baby elephants, a baby giraffe, and four lion cubs!
🚃 How to get to Zoo Leipzig
Zoo Leipzig is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. Its central location within the city makes it a convenient place to visit. Leipzig has a well-developed public transportation system with trams, buses, and trains, making it easy to reach the zoo.
The tram is one of the most popular options. Take tram line 12 or line 15 and get off at the stop called “Zoo.” This stop is right in front of the zoo’s entrance. You can also take bus line 107, which stops at “Zoo Leipzig” in front of the zoo. If you’re coming from the central train station (Leipzig Hauptbahnhof), you can take the S-Bahn S1, S2, or S3 lines and get off at Leipzig Wilhelm-Leuschner-Platz. From there, it’s a short walk to the zoo.
There is parking available near the zoo’s entrance for visitors as well. If you’re driving to Zoo Leipzig, you can use GPS or a navigation app to reach the following address: Zoo Leipzig, Pfaffendorfer Str. 29, 04105 Leipzig, Germany.
Leipzig is a bike-friendly city, and you can also reach the zoo by bicycle. There are bike lanes and bike racks available near the entrance for you to securely park your bike. If you’re staying close to the zoo, you might consider walking if the weather permits. The zoo is located a short distance north of the city center, and walking could be a pleasant way to reach it if you’re staying nearby.
⏱️ Zoo Leipzig opening hours
Leipzig Zoo Germany always opens at 9 am but closing hours differ based on the seasons and special events. The main hours are as follows:
- 1st January – 20th March = 9am – 5pm
- 21st March – 30th April = 9am – 6pm
- 1st May – 30th September = 9am – 7pm
- 1st October – 31st October = 9am – 6pm
- 31st October (Halloween) = 9am – 8pm
- 1st November – 31st December = 9am – 5pm
- 24th December (Christmas Eve) = 9am – 3pm
- 31st December (New Year’s Eve) = 9am – 3pm
Are you excited to experience one of the best Leipzig attractions yet? Purchase your skip-the-line tickets here and check out the official zoo website for more information.
