Does Paris France Have a Zoo?

By Michael Ferguson

Paris, the capital city of France, is known for its stunning architecture, delicious cuisine, and rich history. However, many people wonder if the city has a zoo.

So, does Paris have a zoo? The simple answer is yes! Paris has a few zoos that are worth mentioning.

Jardin des Plantes

One of the most famous zoos in Paris is called Jardin des Plantes. This zoo was first opened in 1793 and is located in the 5th arrondissement of Paris.

The Jardin des Plantes is not only a zoo but also a botanical garden, a natural history museum, and a research center. With over 11 million plants and hundreds of animal species, including some rare and endangered ones like giant pandas, Jardin des Plantes is an excellent place to visit for both animal lovers and botany enthusiasts.

Parc Zoologique de Paris

Another popular zoo in Paris is the Parc Zoologique de Paris or commonly known as Zoo de Vincennes. It was inaugurated in 1934 but underwent major renovations in 2014 to become one of the most modern zoos in Europe.

Located at the eastern edge of Paris in Bois de Vincennes park, this zoo covers an area of about 14 hectares and houses over 2000 animals from more than 180 species. Visitors can see lions, tigers, giraffes, zebras, elephants, reptiles, birds and many more animals at this zoo.

Ménagerie du Jardin des Plantes

Ménagerie du Jardin des Plantes is another small but charming zoo located inside Jardin des Plantes itself. It was established in 1794 and is one of the oldest zoos in the world that still exists today.

This small yet beautiful zoo houses around 1000 animals, including some rare and endangered species like red pandas, okapis, and golden lion tamarins. Visitors can also enjoy the beautiful gardens and natural surroundings while walking around this zoo.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Paris does indeed have a few zoos that are definitely worth visiting when in the city. From the historic Jardin des Plantes to modern Parc Zoologique de Paris, there is something for everyone. So next time you’re in Paris and wondering what to do, consider visiting one of these amazing zoos.