Royal Burgers' Zoo travel guide

The illustrious history of Royal Burgers' Zoo dates back to 1913, when it was established by Johan Burgers. Initially, it was a small menagerie in 's-Heerenberg, but it moved to Arnhem in 1923 for more space.

In 1988, it became the first zoo in the world to open an indoor rainforest, known as 'Burgers' Bush'. This revolutionary concept allowed visitors to walk through an authentic recreation of a tropical rainforest.

In 1995, the zoo was officially recognized by the Dutch Royal family and received the 'Royal' prefix to its name.

Over the years, Royal Burgers' Zoo has continued to innovate and expand. It now houses a wide variety of habitats, including a desert, ocean, mangrove, and safari, making it one of the most unique zoos not just in the Netherlands, but in the world.

Today, it remains a family-run business, committed to animal welfare, conservation, and providing an immersive experience for all visitors.

Royal Burgers' Zoo stands out with its 'ecodisplays' – large and lifelike replicas of natural habitats. This innovative approach allows visitors to step into the animals' natural environments such as the Burgers' Bush, a tropical rainforest, and Burgers' Desert, replicating the rocky desert of Arizona. The Ocean exhibit, a 3 million litre water basin, is home to hundreds of species of tropical coral fish, making it one of the largest covered coral reefs in Europe.

The Burgers' Mangrove, inspired by the mangrove forests of Belize, is the world's largest indoor mangrove, with its own unique flora and fauna. Another standout feature is the Burgers' Rimba that showcases the Southeast Asian rainforest, housing animals like the Asian elephant, Malayan tapir, and many more.

Additionally, the zoo’s commitment to conservation is highly commendable, with their participation in more than 80 European breeding programs and several rewilding projects worldwide. The zoo’s unique approach to animal housing, the sheer size and variety of exhibits, and commitment to conservation truly sets it apart.

Discover Royal Burgers' Zoo, a prime feature of Arnhem, in the vibrant Arnhem. Royal Burgers' Zoo is situated at Antoon van Hooffplein 1, 6816 SH Arnhem, Netherlands, just a short distance from Netherlands Open Air Museum and Park Sonsbeek, making it a perfect addition to your itinerary.

In the vicinity of Royal Burgers' 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 Arnhem, a city in the Netherlands rich with cultural and adventurous activities.

When planning your trip, timing is key. Explore travel trips and ideas on this city from the comprehensive Arnhem travel guide for an unforgettable adventure.

Royal Burgers' Zoo is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Arnhem, the Netherlands. If you're flying in, Düsseldorf International Airport is approximately 62 miles (99.8 km) away from the city center. From there, you can easily reach Royal Burgers' Zoo by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Arnhem, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Royal Burgers' Zoo, which is located 1.7 miles (2.7 km) from the city center. Its exact address is Antoon van Hooffplein 1, 6816 SH Arnhem, Netherlands.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Royal Burgers' Zoo!

The best time to explore Royal Burgers' Zoo is during the spring and summer months, from April to September, when the weather is most favorable. During these seasons, the zoo's lush greenery is in full bloom, making the atmosphere even more enjoyable. The Netherlands' mild summer weather, usually between 20-25°C, provides an ideal climate for wandering through the zoo's expansive habitats. Special events such as animal feeding sessions and educational talks are also more frequent during these months. However, if you prefer a more tranquil experience, plan your visit on a weekday to avoid weekend crowds. The zoo is usually less busy in early mornings and late afternoons. For a unique experience, consider timing your visit with the 'Zoo Nights' in summer, where the zoo remains open until sunset, offering a rare glimpse of nocturnal animal behavior. Remember, the zoo is open all year, so you can plan a visit in off-peak seasons like autumn and winter for a quieter, yet equally captivating experience.

If you're looking for an effortless way to explore Royal Burgers' Zoo, perfectly planned travel packages to Arnhem make it easy and enjoyable, all while keeping costs manageable. With everything seamlessly arranged for your trip to Arnhem, you can simply pack your bags and look forward to exploring Royal Burgers' Zoo.

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

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Choosing the right accommodation near Royal Burgers' Zoo from the widest selection of hotels and places to stay in Arnhem can truly make all the difference in your trip. Not only will you be within a comfortable distance from Royal Burgers' 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 Royal Burgers' Zoo, Arnhem boasts plenty more landmarks that make every trip unforgettable. From museum to establishment, the top attractions in Arnhem offer experiences you won’t want to miss.

One of the most notable attractions to visit while in Arnhem is Netherlands Open Air Museum, located at Hoeferlaan 4, 6816 SG Arnhem, Netherlands. This well-known museum enhances your time in the city.

Whether you plan a short visit or take time to explore fully, Park Sonsbeek is worth seeing when you're in Arnhem. It's a popular park that’s perfect for rounding out your itinerary. You’ll find it at Zijpendaalseweg 24A, 6814 CL Arnhem, Netherlands.

For an unforgettable addition to your itinerary, a visit to John Frost Bridge completes any trip to Arnhem. This establishment draws visitors with its unique appeal, making it an essential stop on your journey. Located at Nijmeegseweg, 6841 Arnhem, Netherlands, its surroundings offer plenty of reasons to linger a little longer.

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 Arnhem below to discover even more incredible places to explore.