Copenhagen Zoo | Copenhagen

Copenhagen Zoo (København Zoo) is one of the oldest and most renowned zoos in Denmark, offering a diverse range of animal exhibits and an immersive experience for visitors of all ages. Established in 1859, the zoo is located in the Frederiksberg district, near the heart of Copenhagen, and spans over 11 hectares. It is home to a wide variety of animals from around the world, making it both a conservation center and an educational resource.

Overview

• Location: Frederiksberg, Copenhagen.
• Founded: 1859.
• Size: 11 hectares (27 acres).
• Mission: Focuses on conservation, animal welfare, and education, with a strong emphasis on global biodiversity and environmental awareness.

Key Attractions and Animal Exhibits

1. The Elephant House

• One of the zoo’s most impressive and famous features, the Elephant House is designed by the renowned Danish architect Bjarke Ingels and opened in 2008.
• The house is a state-of-the-art facility with a central elephant courtyard and an indoor area for the elephants. The innovative design mimics the natural environments of elephants, and it has been widely praised for its eco-friendly and animal-friendly design.
• Visitors can get a close-up view of the Asian elephants, including interactions with the zoo's caretakers and feeding sessions.

2. The African Savannah

• A vast open-air exhibit replicating the African savannah, this area is home to a range of African species, including giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, and antelope.
• The layout allows for animals to roam freely, mimicking their natural habitats, and there are several viewpoints for visitors to observe the animals in their expansive spaces.

3. The Arctic Ring

• The Arctic Ring features animals adapted to cold climates, such as polar bears, snow leopards, and reindeer.
• The habitat design focuses on providing a natural environment for the animals while also educating visitors about the impact of climate change on Arctic species.

4. Rainforest

• A large indoor exhibit designed to replicate a tropical rainforest, housing species like monkeys, sloths, turtles, and a variety of birds and reptiles.
• The Rainforest area offers a chance to see animals from South America, Asia, and Africa up close in a lush, green environment.

5. The Children's Zoo

• A family-friendly area, the Children's Zoo lets younger visitors interact with and learn about domestic and farm animals such as goats, sheep, rabbits, and pigs.
• The area is designed to be hands-on, with opportunities to feed and pet the animals.

6. Exotic Birds

• The zoo has an extensive collection of birds from all over the world, including species like flamingos, parrots, and eagles.
• The birds are housed in large, open aviaries that mimic their natural habitats, offering visitors a chance to see the birds in flight or perched in trees.

7. Reptiles and Amphibians

• The zoo’s Reptile House is home to a variety of reptiles and amphibians from around the world, including snakes, lizards, tortoises, and frogs.
• The exhibit focuses on education about the diversity and conservation needs of these often underappreciated species.

Conservation and Education

• Conservation Programs: Copenhagen Zoo is committed to global wildlife conservation efforts, supporting initiatives aimed at protecting endangered species, preserving natural habitats, and educating the public about biodiversity and environmental sustainability.
• Breeding Programs: The zoo is involved in several international breeding programs for endangered species, such as the Sumatran tiger and Javan rhinoceros, to help ensure the survival of these animals.
• Educational Initiatives: The zoo offers a wide range of educational programs, including school visits, workshops, and interactive exhibits aimed at raising awareness about wildlife and environmental issues.

Visitor Information

• Opening Hours:
  • Generally open every day, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with extended hours during summer and school holidays.
  • Opening hours may vary, especially during special events or public holidays.
• Tickets:
  • Adult tickets: Approximately DKK 195-210.
  • Children (3-11 years): Around DKK 95.
  • Free Admission: Children under 3 and Copenhagen Card holders.
  • Tickets can be purchased online or at the entrance, with discounts available for families and groups.

Getting There

• By Metro: The Frederiksberg Station is a short walk from the zoo and is served by M3 (Cityringen).
• By Bus: Several buses, including lines 4A and 14, stop near the zoo.
• By Bike: Copenhagen is a bike-friendly city, and the zoo is easily accessible by bike with parking facilities nearby.

Nearby Attractions

1. Frederiksberg Gardens: A large park located next to the zoo, ideal for a relaxing walk or picnic after visiting the zoo.
2. Carlsberg Brewery: Located nearby, you can visit the Carlsberg brewery, one of Denmark's oldest and most famous breweries, and learn about its history.
3. Rosenborg Castle: A historic castle and museum that houses Denmark's royal treasures and crown jewels, just a short distance away.
4. Vesterbro District: Known for its trendy cafes, shops, and cultural venues, Vesterbro is close to the zoo and perfect for a post-visit exploration.

Fun Fact

Copenhagen Zoo was the first zoo in the world to have an elephant house with an elephant pool, and it remains one of the few places in Europe where elephants are housed in a facility specifically designed to cater to their needs.

Tips for Visitors

1. Plan Your Visit: The zoo is large, so it’s worth spending 2–3 hours to explore the various exhibits.
2. Check Feeding Times: Many of the zoo's animals are fed at specific times during the day, which can be a great opportunity to watch animal interactions.
3. Bring Snacks and Water: While the zoo has cafes and eateries, it’s always good to bring your own snacks, especially if visiting with children.
4. Weather Considerations: Since much of the zoo is outdoors, it’s a good idea to check the weather forecast before your visit and dress accordingly.

Copenhagen Zoo is a fantastic destination for animal lovers, families, and those interested in conservation efforts. With a wide range of exhibits, a focus on environmental education, and a long history of animal care, it offers an enriching experience for visitors of all ages.