One of the best ways to get to know Denmark’s wildlife scene and spend quality time with family or friends is to visit the country’s remarkable zoos. Zoos in Denmark aren’t just about exotic animals -they’re centers of conservation, education, and breathtaking nature experiences.
Whether you’re an animal lover, a parent seeking a family outing, or just looking for something different to explore on the weekend, Denmark has some wonderful zoos that won’t disappoint. Here’s your ultimate guide to some of the best!
1. Copenhagen Zoo: Where History and Conservation Meet
Let’s start with the most famous of them all, Copenhagen Zoo. This zoo is not just one of Denmark’s oldest -it’s also one of the most visited. Located in Frederiksberg, just a short ride from the heart of Copenhagen, it’s a true city gem that feels like a world of its own.
Copenhagen Zoo takes a balanced approach to animal welfare and visitor experience. You’ll find everything from majestic lions and towering giraffes to adorable pandas and exotic birds
Key highlights of this zoo include:
- Elephant House: The Elephant House, designed by the acclaimed architect Norman Foster, is especially impressive. Here, you can watch elephants roam in a spacious, thoughtfully designed environment.
- Children’s Zoo: If you’re visiting with kids, the Children’s Zoo offers hands-on experiences, where they can pet friendly farm animals and learn about Danish agriculture.
2. Odense Zoo: A Natural Oasis on Funen
Odense Zoo might not be as big as its Copenhagen counterpart, but it has a cozy, intimate charm. Located on Funen Island, in the city that gave us Hans Christian Andersen, this zoo offers an excellent mix of animal exhibits and lovely green spaces for a laid-back day out.
Odense Zoo creates an up-close experience for visitors. You’ll find well-designed enclosures for giraffes, tigers, and sea lions, and you might even get to see the chimpanzees go about their day in the large tropical area.
What makes Odense Zoo special:
- Interactive Experiences: Visitors can join animal feeding sessions and hear keeper talks. These activities offer a hands-on way to learn about animal behavior and care.
- The Oceanium Exhibit: This is a highlight of the zoo where you can explore the Amazon jungle’s ecosystem. There’s something truly magical about seeing South American species, including the giant anaconda, in a lush indoor setting that makes you feel like you’ve traveled continents.
3. Aalborg Zoo: Family Fun Meets Conservation
If you’re visiting Denmark with children, Aalborg Zoo has a lovely family-friendly atmosphere that they would love. It is located in northern Denmark and is famous for its spacious enclosures and beautiful, lush grounds.
You’ll find polar bears, lions, penguins, and even kangaroos here, and the zoo’s layout allows for stunning views of the animals in environments that feel natural and spacious.
What makes Aalborg Zoo unique:
- Child-Centered Activities: The zoo offers educational programs designed for children, providing fun, interactive ways to learn about biodiversity and environmental care.
- Zoo by Night: Every summer, Aalborg Zoo hosts an enchanting evening event, “Zoo by Night,” where you can experience the zoo under the stars with cozy lighting and a completely different ambiance.
4. Givskud Zoo: Denmark’s Wildlife Safari
Imagine driving past lions lounging on rocks, giraffes stretching their necks for tree leaves, and rhinos grazing just meters away from you. That’s Givskud Zoo! Also known as Zootopia, this zoo offers a safari-style experience where you can drive through various animal enclosures in your own car or take a guided bus tour.
The lion safari is the most popular attraction, but if you’re with children, the Dinosaur Park with life-sized dinosaur models is a huge hit. Beyond the safari, there’s also a traditional zoo section where you can walk through exhibits and see gorillas, wolves, and many other species up close.
Here’s what sets Givskud Zoo apart:
- Drive-Through Safari: Instead of walking, you can drive through large areas where lions, giraffes, and zebras move freely.
- Close to LEGOLAND: This zoo is located near Billund, the home of LEGO. You can pair your visit here with a visit to LEGOLAND.
5. Ree Park Safari: A Global Wildlife Experience in Denmark
Ree Park Safari, located on the scenic Djursland peninsula, is the closest you’ll get to a real safari experience in Denmark. The park focuses on animals from the African savannah, but you’ll also find North and South American species here. This park gives you a taste of Africa without ever leaving Denmark.
Ree Park Safari recreates natural habitats for animals from different continents, showing Denmark’s dedication to biodiversity. The park is located in Djursland, and takes you on a global wildlife journey each visit.
Why Ree Park Safari is worth visiting:
- Safari Tours: This park has a mix of walking trails and safari experiences. For a real adventure, hop on their Land Rover Safari, which takes you through expansive areas where zebras, giraffes, and other African animals roam freely.
- Interactive Learning: Animal feeding sessions and guided tours offer a fun way to learn about global conservation efforts.
Tips for Visiting Zoos in Denmark
- Weather Considerations: Danish weather can be unpredictable, so pack layers and check the forecast before heading out. Spring and summer are usually the best times to visit, but fall has its own cozy charm. Check out our guide on preparing for Danish weather.
- Get a Membership: If you’re planning to visit often, most zoos offer membership cards, which can save you money and give you perks like free parking and discounts at other Danish attractions.
- Pack Snacks: Many zoos have lovely picnic spots, so feel free to bring along some snacks or a packed lunch. Danish zoos also have cafes and restaurants, but options can be limited and pricey.
Conclusion
Exploring Denmark’s zoos is a fantastic way to connect with Danish culture, learn about global wildlife, and spend quality time with loved ones. Whether you’re driving through a safari park or watching polar bears dive into chilly waters, Denmark’s zoos offer unforgettable experiences for all ages. So grab your camera, bundle up if needed, and enjoy a day out exploring the best wildlife Denmark has to offer!
