Royal Burgers' Zoo, the Netherlands Travel Guide

Nestled in the lush greenery of Arnhem, The Royal Burgers' Zoo is a haven of history and wonder. Founded in 1913 by Johan Burgers, a passionate animal lover, the zoo was revolutionary for its time, pioneering the concept of enclosures that mimic natural habitats. This visionary approach set the stage for modern zoos worldwide, forever changing how humans perceive wildlife conservation.

The zoo's historical significance is matched by its enchanting tales, like the story of the legendary elephant, Kito. In the 1980s, Kito became a media sensation when he famously rescued a young zookeeper from a dangerous situation. His intelligence and bravery captivated the hearts of the public, making him an icon of the zoo's commitment to nurturing strong bonds with its animals.

Another intriguing chapter in the zoo's history is the creation of the Mangrove Hall, the largest indoor mangrove in the world. Opened in 2017, it serves as a stunning reminder of the zoo's dedication to environmental education. Visitors can explore this immersive habitat, teeming with butterflies and fiddler crabs, and gain an appreciation for delicate ecosystems.

Royal Burgers' Zoo continues to innovate, inviting visitors to journey through its diverse landscapes. Whether it's walking the sandy plains of the African savannah or discovering the colorful marine life in its Ocean exhibit, every visit promises a unique adventure. This blend of history, innovation, and captivating stories makes the zoo an irresistible destination for travelers seeking both education and excitement.

Nestled in the serene landscapes of Arnhem, The Royal Burgers' Zoo offers an immersive experience that transports visitors across the globe through its meticulously designed ecosystems. One of its most striking features is the Burgers' Bush, a vast indoor rainforest that replicates the climate and biodiversity of the tropics. Here, you'll wander through lush greenery, encounter vibrant birds, and hear the gentle rustling of leaves, all under the shelter of a glass dome.

Continuing your journey, the Burgers' Desert provides an intriguing contrast, showcasing the arid environments of North America and Mexico. This unique area highlights cacti, desert flora, and a variety of fascinating animals such as meerkats and desert foxes, offering a taste of desert life in a uniquely Dutch setting.

For those fascinated by marine life, Burgers' Ocean is an unmissable attraction, bringing the wonders of the underwater world to life. As you walk through the glass tunnel, you're surrounded by sharks, rays, and vibrant schools of fish, creating a breathtaking 360-degree view of marine habitats. These distinct environments ensure that a visit to The Royal Burgers' Zoo is both educational and awe-inspiring, offering a global journey within the heart of the Netherlands.

The Royal Burgers' Zoo is a trailblazer when it comes to creating realistic habitats for its animals. For instance, its Desert habitat mimics the climate and terrain of the Arizona Desert, offering visitors a slice of the American Southwest right in the Netherlands. The zoo's dedication to authenticity is evident in its use of genuine cacti and sand sourced from Arizona, creating an immersive experience for both animals and visitors.

Another fascinating feature is the Ocean exhibit, which boasts one of the largest live coral reefs in captivity. This mesmerizing underwater world houses over 3,000 fish from more than 60 species, showcasing the delicate balance of marine ecosystems. It provides an invaluable glimpse into the underwater wonders that are often inaccessible to the average person.

The Mangrove, inspired by the mangroves of Belize, is the largest indoor mangrove in the world. This unique habitat supports butterflies, crabs, and manatees, demonstrating the zoo's commitment to education and conservation. It highlights the crucial role mangroves play in protecting coastlines while supporting diverse wildlife.

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.

The best time to go to Royal Burgers' Zoo is during the pleasant spring months of April to June. During this period, the weather is mild, and the vibrant flora and fauna awaken, offering a delightful experience for visitors. Spring also sees fewer crowds compared to the bustling summer months, allowing guests to explore the zoo's expansive grounds at a leisurely pace.

Summer, from July to September, is also an excellent time for families with school-aged children. The zoo hosts a range of engaging activities and special events, such as interactive animal presentations and themed exhibitions. However, be prepared for larger crowds and warmer weather, which may require an early start to fully enjoy the day.

For those seeking a quieter experience, autumn months of October and November offer colorful foliage and cooler temperatures, creating a serene environment for wildlife observation.

Explore our extended guide on the best time to visit Royal Burgers' Zoo for more inspiration on things to do in every season.

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!

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.

Upon arriving at Düsseldorf International Airport, you’ll find 1 reputable rental car companies conveniently situated near the city of Arnhem.

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

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.