Pairi Daiza
Vlaamse Gewest
Pairi Daiza, located in Cambron-Casteau, Belgium, is a sprawling 80-hectare zoological park that opened in 1994. Originally a bird park named Paradisio, it has evolved into a multifaceted zoo housing more than 7,000 animals from 800 species. The park is organized into ten thematic zones called 'Worlds', each offering unique landscapes and animal habitats, such as the Chinese-themed Middle Kingdom and the historic Cambron Abbey area. It is one of the few European parks to host giant pandas, including notable individuals like Hao Hao and Xing Hui. The recent addition of Edenya, the world's largest tropical greenhouse, immerses visitors in an equatorial environment with waterfalls, rare animals like jaguars and manatees, and Europe's largest butterfly territory. Pairi Daiza is also committed to conservation, participating in European breeding programs for endangered species. With over 2.8 million visitors annually, it is Belgium's most visited recreational park, combining cultural heritage, diverse wildlife, and immersive natural experiences.
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Tip: For the best experience, visit during spring to enjoy the Floral Dreams event when millions of flowers bloom across the park's worlds. Booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially for limited-access areas like Edenya. Check the official website for seasonal events and available discounts on family or group tickets. Arriving early helps avoid crowds and allows time to explore the various themed zones thoroughly.
Interesting facts
- •Pairi Daiza is one of only eight European zoos housing giant pandas.
- •The name 'Pairi Daiza' comes from an ancient Avestan word meaning 'walled garden' and is the root of the word 'paradise'.
- •Edenya, opened in 2026, is the largest tropical greenhouse in the world, covering four hectares under glass.
- •The park hosts over 7,000 animals from 800 species across 80 hectares.
- •Pairi Daiza attracts more than 2.8 million visitors annually, making it Belgium's most visited recreational park.
History
Pairi Daiza opened its doors on May 11, 1994, initially named Paradisio and focused on birds.
Over the years, it expanded into a comprehensive zoo with thematic worlds.
Key milestones include the introduction of the Chinese garden in 2005 and the arrival of giant pandas in 2014.
The park's name, derived from the ancient Avestan word 'pairi daēza' meaning 'walled garden,' reflects its design philosophy.
Recent developments include the opening of Edenya, the world's largest tropical greenhouse, in 2026, and plans for a water park called La Lagune.
Place Guide
Cambron Abbey12th century (original abbey)
The historic ruins and buildings of the former Cistercian abbey form the heart of this world, featuring a monk cemetery, monumental staircase, and the iconic abbey tower. The crypt houses a hippopotamus colony, and an old coach house serves as a children's farm. The abbey brewery produces the local Abbaye de Cambron beer.
Giant Panda Enclosure2014 (arrival of pandas)
Home to giant pandas Hao Hao, Xing Hui, and their offspring, this enclosure is a highlight of the Chinese-themed Middle Kingdom. The pandas have been part of European breeding programs, with cubs born in 2016 and 2019, contributing to conservation efforts.
Edenya Tropical Greenhouse2026
Opened in 2026, Edenya immerses visitors in an equatorial rainforest atmosphere under a four-hectare glass dome. Features include a 17-meter waterfall, hanging bridges, a tropical beach, and Europe's largest butterfly territory. Animals such as jaguars, manatees, tapirs, sharks, and monkeys inhabit this lush environment.
Contact
Phone: 068 25 08 50
