Wildlands zoo

If you’re in the Netherlands and have a deep love for animals, a visit to Wildlands Zoo is an absolute must. This remarkable zoo not only allows you to observe stunning animal species but also immerses you in incredible habitats.

What sets this place apart is its dedication to recreating the animals’ natural environments as closely as possible.

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You’ll be enveloped in positive vibes as you connect with nature in this zoo, where you can get up close and personal with animals. All while following the rules, of course, and capturing some fantastic photos.

In this beautiful zoo, if you’re accompanied by children, they can enjoy specially designed recreational areas and exciting attractions.

Jungola

Vlindertempel

In Jungola, you’ll encounter hundreds of species of butterflies, along with plants and flowers. The atmosphere here radiates positivity, offering relaxation and a sense of spirituality. What makes Jungola truly special is that you can get inches away from these butterflies, and if luck is on your side, they might even land on your skin.

Apenrüine

Here, you’ll relish watching monkeys having a blast and playing among themselves, with various monkey species on display. Upon entering Wildlands, you can also witness monkeys enjoying themselves in trees, eating, or swinging freely in the open air.

Birdy Bush

This area allows you to immerse yourself in lush vegetation and admire beautiful bird species. You’ll feel like you’ve been transported to a tropical paradise surrounded by colorful birds. In Apenrüine, in addition to being in close contact with birds, you can even feed them (it’s allowed).

Olifanten

There are two elephant areas; one allows you to get close, while the other is enclosed. If you take the train ride, you can observe them up close. This area features a beautifully designed setting with a large lake for the elephant family. Taking the boat tour (boat ride) also lets you see a picturesque tunnel and artificial waterfall.

Serenga

Dogondorp

You can enjoy close encounters with animals and pet them if they allow it because these are farm animals like goats and donkeys, among others.

Furthermore, this is one of the few areas in Serenga where animals interact with people. You can also take a break around the Dogondorp area with some ice cream.

Animazia

Animazia features two sections: Amenazia XL-Speelparadijs, where you can observe turtles, and an aquarium within the area. You may also catch a glimpse of hippos from afar, outside the lake, or you can enter the aquarium for a close-up view. Amenazia Plaza, it’s an ideal spot for children as there are playground games, and you can also take a break with your family, enjoying some food or buying souvenirs.

Serenga Safari

This is my favorite spot because it showcases African animals up close. I recommend taking the train tour (truck ride) in Savanne; you can find tips on this tour.

In addition to observing the animals of Serenga Safari, you can enjoy fun rides like a mini roller coaster.

Savanne

After having a great time at Serenga Safari and observing the African animals, you can take the tour (truck ride).

You’ll have the chance to enjoy giraffe families, zebras, impalas, and many more, even taking close-up photos. Although you might have to wait a few minutes in line because there are only two trains, it will be well worth the wait.

Vicuña and Nandoes

These sweet animals can be seen feeding and playing with each other. You can also pass by an old-fashioned train with an African theme. You might also spot camels from a distance or some within the Vicuña and Nandoes area.

After completing the Vicuña and Nandoes tour, you can also observe animals from the African Savannah from a distance within Kirafu Ranger Station.

Nortica

Nortica Hafén

Enjoy watching sea lions and seals having a great time in their aquatic area, playing with each other.

After the Nortica Hafén tour, don’t forget to visit Ratten and continue in the Artic 1 area (4D simulator) and Nortica Theater.

Artic 1 (4D simulator) and Nortica Theater

Here, you can relax while watching Arctic animals in a 4D simulator, making you feel like you’re at the North Pole. It’s a great place to unwind after your adventure in Wildlands. Regarding Nortica Theater, make sure not to go too late, as the sea lion/seal show ends around 5:30 pm, which is quite late.

Raccoon Creek

This is one of Nortica’s largest areas, where you can observe skunks, raccoons, squirrels, and more up close if you’re lucky. Although some may stay hidden at times, the beavers are always playing and causing mischief. Upon exiting Raccoon Creek, you can head to the snowy owl area.

Nortica Aquarium

On the first level, you’ll find some fish in pools, including sharks, white stingrays, and various fish species. As you descend the stairs, you’ll reach the aquarium, where you’ll observe fish and animals from the Ijsberen and Penguins area. If you feel like having a snack or a drink and relaxing, there’s a small food and gift plaza (Zembla) nearby.

Ijsberen and Penguins

You’ll be able to see the polar bear family from the bridge next to Nortica Aquarium, and it’s heartwarming to watch the mother bear protect her baby cub. You can also observe penguins from the Nortica Aquarium or near the Nortica Theater show area.

Explore the wonders of Wildlands Zoo in the Netherlands, where each section promises a unique and captivating experience. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or just looking for an unforgettable family outing, this zoo offers an exceptional adventure with some of nature’s most remarkable creatures.