If you’re seeking a day trip that combines education, adventure, and stunning landscapes, Burgers’ Zoo in Arnhem offers a compelling experience. For around $32 per person, you’ll spend roughly 8 hours wandering through large-scale natural habitats that feel like stepping into different worlds — from dense jungles to vast savannahs. The tour includes admission, skip-the-line access, and wheelchair accessibility, making it accessible and convenient for most visitors.
We genuinely appreciate the way this zoo recreates ecosystems with such care and detail; it’s a true highlight for wildlife lovers and families alike. Two features stand out: first, the indoor jungle that envelops you in humidity, vibrant vegetation, and authentic sounds — a perfect way to escape the European weather. Second, the largest indoor mangrove in the world offers a unique peek into Belize’s coastal ecosystems, filled with butterflies, manatees, and crabs.
One aspect to keep in mind is that some visitors might find the price a little steep compared to smaller zoos. A review even called it “completely overpriced,” which is something to consider if budget is a priority. Nonetheless, for those who value immersive environments and diverse ecosystems, Burgers’ Zoo offers a fantastic value for an all-day adventure in nature.
This tour suits travelers who are passionate about wildlife, enjoy walking through different biomes, and appreciate detailed, eco-friendly exhibits. Families, nature photographers, and curious explorers will find plenty to love here, especially with the chance to see animals in settings that mimic their natural habitats.
Key Points
- Highly immersive environments: Large, naturalistic habitats create authentic ecosystems.
- Diverse ecosystems: From tropical rainforests to savannah plains, each zone offers a unique experience.
- Educational and fun: Perfect for families and wildlife enthusiasts seeking an enriching day.
- Convenient access: Skip-the-line entry and wheelchair accessibility make planning easier.
- Value for money: While the price is higher than some might expect, the scale and quality of exhibits justify it for many visitors.
- Good for a full-day visit: With 45 hectares to explore, plan on spending several hours here.
Arrival and General Layout
Your day begins when you arrive at the Gelderland-based Burgers’ Zoo in Arnhem. The entry ticket grants you access to a sprawling 45-hectare park, meticulously designed to mimic real-world habitats. The zoo’s focus on eco-displays means animals and plants are housed in environments that resemble their natural homes, offering both visual authenticity and educational value.
The skip-the-line feature is a smart choice, especially during peak seasons, reducing wait times and giving you more time inside. The entry fee of $32 is competitive for the experience provided, particularly considering the size and diversity of habitats.
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The Tropical Rainforest: The Bush
Once inside, you’ll find yourself in the Tropical Rainforest zone, affectionately called “The Bush.” Opened in 1988, it covers 1.5 hectares of lush, humid environment. We loved how the temperature and humidity mimic a real jungle — the sounds of birds and insects fill the air, transporting visitors from Arnhem to somewhere far warmer.
Walking through dense vegetation, you’ll see a variety of plants, birds, and insects. The smells of damp earth and foliage add to the sense of authenticity. This area is perfect for nature lovers who want to feel like they are truly in a rainforest, rather than just observing animals behind glass.
The Desert: The Mexican-American Rock Desert
Next, you’ll traverse into the Desert, a stark contrast with its rocky terrain and arid climate. Featuring species like vultures and hardy desert plants, this eco-display emphasizes the resilience of desert life. We found it fascinating how the zoo recreated the dry heat and open skies, which is perfect for those interested in conservation and adaptation.
Highlight: The vultures here are impressive, and it’s a good reminder of the importance of scavengers in ecosystems. The desert feels vast, and the open design invites exploration.
The Ocean: Coral Reef and Indian Pacific Ocean
One of the tour’s standout features is the indoor coral reef and Indian Pacific Ocean exhibits. They simulate marine environments with vibrant corals, schools of fish, and even sea turtles. The water displays are so well-designed that you might forget you’re indoors. Observing the various species of crabs and the graceful movements of marine life is a real treat.
The indoor mangrove, inspired by Belize, is the world’s largest of its kind. It’s a highlight for sure — a complex habitat where you can see butterflies fluttering among mangroves, along with manatees and numerous crab species. This eco-display not only looks beautiful but also educates about coastal ecosystems and their importance.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Savannah: Giraffes and Rhinos
Moving on, the Savannah area simulates African plains, where giraffes, rhinos, and zebras roam freely. The landscape here is expansive, giving the impression of a vast African wilderness. We loved watching the giraffes stretch their long necks while casually munching on leaves — a simple act that feels almost cinematic in this setting.
This part of the zoo is great for photo opportunities and for kids to marvel at these majestic animals. The design allows for good viewing angles without feeling crowded, which is a bonus.
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The Largest Indoor Mangrove
A special feature here is the indoor mangrove — the largest in the world. Inspired by Belize, this eco-display serves as an educational hub for coastal ecosystems. Butterflies, manatees, crabs, and lush mangrove trees make this a vibrant, lively spot. It’s especially appealing to families and nature photographers eager to capture the diversity of life.
Visiting Tips
- Timing: Check the availability and start times for your 8-hour visit, and plan to arrive early to maximize your time.
- Walking: Be prepared for a fair amount of walking across 45 hectares — comfortable shoes are a must.
- Food & Beverages: The tour price doesn’t include food, so consider packing snacks or planning to buy at the zoo.
- Accessibility: The site is wheelchair friendly, making it accessible to all visitors.
Authenticity and Education
What sets Burgers’ Zoo apart is its dedication to creating ecosystems that mimic real habitats. This approach offers more than just viewing animals; it provides insight into how these ecosystems function and their importance, which we appreciate as meaningful learning experiences.
A Word on Value
While the $32 entry fee might seem steep for some, remember that you’re paying for large, well-maintained habitats and diverse ecosystems in one day. The quality and scale of the exhibits justify the price for many visitors, especially those eager for a full-day adventure. The review mentioning it as “very beautiful but totally overpriced” reminds us that value is subjective — if you’re into immersive nature experiences, it’s likely worth it.
This experience is best suited for those who want more than just a quick zoo visit. Families will love the interactive, educational zones, while wildlife buffs will appreciate the detailed recreations of ecosystems. Nature photographers will find plenty of compelling scenes, and anyone with an interest in ecology will gain a greater appreciation for the interconnectedness of life.
If you’re looking for a comprehensive, visually stunning, and environmentally conscious zoo experience near Arnhem, Burgers’ Zoo is a top contender. It offers an authentic look at ecosystems from around the world, all within a single visit.
Is transportation provided for this tour?
No, transportation is not included. You’ll need to travel to Arnhem and the zoo’s location on your own or arrange your transport.
Can I cancel my ticket if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible for last-minute changes.
Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the zoo is wheelchair accessible, ensuring everyone can enjoy the exhibits comfortably.
Are food and beverages included?
No, food and drinks are not included in the ticket price, so plan to bring your own or purchase at the zoo.
How long should I plan to spend at Burgers’ Zoo?
Most visitors spend around 8 hours exploring all the eco-displays and habitats.
Is this experience good for children?
Absolutely, children will enjoy seeing animals in naturalistic settings and participating in the educational displays.
What is the price of parking?
Parking is available for an additional fee of €8.50, which is worth considering if you’re driving.
How large is Burgers’ Zoo?
The zoo covers approximately 45 hectares, so wear comfortable shoes and plan your route.
Burgers’ Zoo in Arnhem offers a uniquely authentic look at ecosystems from around the world. It combines impressive habitat recreations with educational insights, making it a rewarding destination for nature lovers, families, and anyone curious about wildlife conservation. While the price might seem high for some, the immersive environments and the opportunity to see animals in naturalistic settings justify the investment for many visitors.
If you’re after a full-day adventure that offers both entertainment and education in a setting that respects nature and promotes awareness, Burgers’ Zoo is a solid choice. Be prepared for a lot of walking, bring snacks, and don’t forget your camera — this is a place where nature’s diversity truly shines.
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