Zoo Basel
Basel-Stadt
Zoo Basel, located in the city of Basel, Switzerland, is the country's oldest zoological garden, established in 1874. Known locally as "Zolli," it is home to over 500 animal species from all seven continents, making it the largest zoo in Switzerland by animal count. The zoo plays a significant role in conservation, participating in over 40 breeding programs for endangered species, with notable successes including the first Indian rhinoceros birth in a zoo and the global breeding program for the Somali wild ass. Its exhibits are thoughtfully designed to encourage visitors to observe animals in naturalistic settings, including themed areas such as the Africa exhibit where hippos, ostriches, and zebras coexist, and the Australis area featuring kangaroos and Australian wildlife. The Vivarium aquarium hosts a diverse collection of aquatic and amphibious species, including king penguins and lungfish. Zoo Basel is currently undergoing major expansions and renovations, including new facilities for elephants and monkeys, as part of its "Zolli 2049" master plan. With over 1.2 million visitors in 2024, it is highly regarded internationally, ranked among the top zoos worldwide. Beyond its animal collection, the zoo serves as a vital green space for Basel residents, akin to Central Park in New York City.
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Tip: For the best experience, visit during weekdays or outside school holidays to avoid crowds. Purchasing tickets online in advance is recommended to ensure entry and access to special exhibits. Check the zoo's official website for seasonal events and any temporary exhibit closures. Visitors can benefit from discounts available for families, seniors, and groups. Plan for several hours to explore the diverse habitats and attend feeding sessions or educational talks. Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are advised, as the zoo spans a hilly valley area.
Interesting facts
- •Zoo Basel was the first zoo to have a birth of an Indian rhinoceros in captivity.
- •Every Somali wild ass in zoos worldwide descends from the Basel breeding program.
- •The zoo has successfully bred over 400 flamingos, more than any other zoo.
- •Zoo Basel was ranked among the top 15 zoos worldwide by Forbes Traveler in 2008.
- •The Africa exhibit is notable for housing hippos, ostriches, and zebras together, a pioneering mixed-species habitat.
History
Zoo Basel was founded in 1874, making it the oldest zoo in Switzerland.
It began as a private initiative by the Ornithological Society of Basel to create a naturalistic recreational space for city residents showcasing native and exotic animals.
Over the decades, the zoo expanded its collection and infrastructure, achieving pioneering breeding successes such as the first Indian rhinoceros birth in captivity.
Financially supported by legacies and donations, it remained largely self-sustaining until state subsidies began in 2008.
The zoo has continually modernized, with major expansions including new animal houses and renovations since 2010, and plans for further development under the "Zolli 2049" initiative.
Place Guide
Vivarium Aquarium1972
Opened in 1972, the Vivarium houses around 6,000 animals across 480 species including fish, reptiles, amphibians, and penguins. Notable for breeding lungfish bichir and king penguins, it features indoor and outdoor areas where visitors can observe penguins walking to their outdoor habitat in winter.
Africa Exhibit1993
Completed in 1993, this outdoor area uniquely houses hippos, ostriches, and Grant's zebras together, simulating a natural African ecosystem. It was Zoo Basel's first mixed-species exhibit, providing valuable insights for later exhibits. The ostrich breeding program here has been highly successful with over 110 chicks hatched since 2000.
Australis Area2006
Opened in 2006 and funded by Novartis, this exhibit features western grey kangaroos and Australian brush-turkeys living together. The indoor Australis house contains vivaria with Australian species like geckos, redback spiders, cane toads, and green tree pythons. An educational exhibit focuses on marsupial reproduction.
Bird House1927
Dating back to 1927, the Bird House is the zoo's second oldest building. It currently hosts only birds, including free-flying species like the Knysna turaco, which can be seen and heard within the central jungle area of the house.
Contact
Phone: 061 295 35 35