Prague Zoo travel guide

Prague Zoo, established in 1931, has a rich and captivating history. Its origins can be traced back to Count Sweerts-Sporck, who proposed the idea of a zoo in 1881. However, it took 50 years before the zoo officially opened its doors.

During World War II, the zoo was heavily damaged but it managed to recover and expand over the years. In the 1950s and 1960s, it gained international fame for breeding Przewalski's horses.

The zoo witnessed a significant setback in 2002 when it was hit by a severe flood that caused extensive damage. Yet, it bounced back with better and improved facilities. Today, Prague Zoo is renowned worldwide, housing over 5,000 animals of 681 species, including many endangered and rare species. It also enjoys the status of being the second most visited tourist attraction in Prague.

The history of Prague Zoo is not just about the past, but also about its commitment to conservation and its dedication towards creating an engaging experience for its visitors.

Prague Zoo, one of the top zoos in the world, boasts some unique features that set it apart from others. Its Indonesian Jungle is an indoor complex that mimics the tropical environment of Indonesia, housing animals like Komodo dragons, and the endangered Sumatran tiger. Further, the zoo's 'Pavilon Nočních živočichů' or 'Pavilion of Night Creatures' is a rare feature, allowing visitors to observe nocturnal animals during their active hours.

The zoo is also home to the largest collection of giant salamanders in Europe, including the critically endangered Chinese giant salamander. Prague Zoo takes immense pride in its conservation efforts, with successful breeding programs for many endangered species. It's also home to the 'Bororo Reserve', a distinctive feature that recreates the South American Wetlands, providing a habitat for tapirs, capybaras, and giant anteaters. The zoo's chairlift provides an aerial view of the entire terrain, another unique feature that enhances the visitor's experience.

Discover Prague Zoo, a prime feature of Prague. Prague Zoo is situated at U Trojského zámku 120/3, 171 00 Praha 7, Czechia, just a short distance from Trojský zámek and Královská obora Stromovka, making it a perfect addition to your itinerary.

In the vicinity of Prague Zoo, various dining and shopping options await, alongside a lively atmosphere that captures the essence of local life. This location serves as a perfect starting point or a key highlight during your exploration of Prague, a city in the Czech Republic rich with cultural and adventurous activities.

When planning your trip, timing is key. Discover the best time to visit Prague to fully enjoy the seasonal charm of Prague Zoo. Explore travel trips and ideas on this city from the comprehensive Prague travel guide for an unforgettable adventure.

Prague Zoo is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Prague, the Czech Republic. If you're flying in, Václav Havel Prague Airport is approximately 6.6 miles (10.6 km) away from the city center. From there, you can easily reach Prague Zoo by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Prague, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Prague Zoo, which is located 2.2 miles (3.5 km) from the city center. Its exact address is U Trojského zámku 120/3, 171 00 Praha 7, Czechia.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Prague Zoo!

The best time to explore Prague Zoo is in the spring months of April and May, or in early autumn, namely September and October. These periods offer mild weather and fewer crowds, rendering an ideal environment to enjoy the diverse animal kingdom. The zoo, which is home to over 5000 animals, is particularly lively during these months, enhancing the visitor experience. Should you choose to visit in the spring, you may get the chance to see newborn animals. Similarly, autumn is noteworthy for its beautiful foliage adorning the zoo, creating a picturesque backdrop for your exploration. The zoo also hosts several special events throughout the year, such as the 'Day of the Earth' in April and 'Zoo Day' in September, both of which offer unique programs for guests. It's worth noting that weekday visits are less crowded than weekends, offering more relaxed viewing. Consequently, planning your visit during these recommended periods will guarantee a memorable experience at Prague Zoo.

With everything seamlessly arranged for your trip to Prague, you can simply pack your bags and look forward to exploring Prague Zoo.

Keep reading to discover the best options for experiencing this iconic zoo in the Czech Republic.

Upon arriving at Václav Havel Prague Airport, you’ll find 3 reputable rental car companies conveniently situated near the city of Prague.

Click 'See More' to unlock other affordable car rental options in Prague.

Choosing the right accommodation near Prague Zoo from the widest selection of hotels and places to stay in Prague can truly make all the difference in your trip. Not only will you be within a comfortable distance from Prague Zoo, but you’ll also enjoy the best rates available, backed by 24/7 customer service and glowing reviews.

To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve curated a handpicked list of top-rated hotels nearby.

Beyond Prague Zoo, Prague boasts plenty more landmarks that make every trip unforgettable.

The city's top sights offer a wide variety of experiences to make your trip truly memorable. Check out the full list of top attractions in Prague below to discover even more incredible places to explore.