Information
Landmark: Kharkiv ZooCity: Kharkiv
Country: Ukraine
Continent: Europe
Kharkiv Zoo, Kharkiv, Ukraine, Europe
Overview
Founded in 1895, Kharkiv Zoo holds the title of Ukraine’s oldest zoo and ranks among the world’s twenty most historic, its iron gates still echoing with over a century of footsteps.It was originally built to offer learning opportunities and give visitors a close look at exotic animals, like the flash of a parrot’s bright wings in the sun.The zoo’s long past holds plenty of trials, from fierce winters to the heavy shelling it endured during World War II-known here as the Great Patriotic War.After the war, the zoo went through a major restoration, though its old stone paths and weathered enclosures stayed in place until a sweeping rebuild began in 2016.Starting in 2016, Kharkiv Zoo launched a major renovation, upgrading its grounds and giving the animals roomier, more natural spaces-like shaded enclosures that feel closer to the wild.The reconstruction brought new enclosure designs, smoother paths for visitors, stronger infrastructure, and better care standards for the animals-right down to softer bedding in their shelters.After five years of hard work, the zoo swung its gates open on August 23, 2021, revealing bright glass habitats and wide, leafy walkways for animals and visitors alike.You’ll find the zoo at 35 Sumska Street, right in the heart of Kharkiv, just a short stroll from the bustling city center.It spreads across a wide stretch, built to mimic everything from shady forests to sunlit wetlands right in the middle of the city.At Kharkiv Zoo, the exhibits are arranged into themed zones that recreate the natural habitats of their residents-step into the African Safari Zone and you’ll spot lions lounging in the sun, hear hyenas calling, and see hippos, crocodiles, and bright flashes of wings from exotic birds.The enclosure mimics the African savannah, with tall golden grasses swaying beside a stretch of shimmering wetland.In the African Savannah Zone, you’ll spot zebras flicking their tails, giraffes stretching for leaves, and ostriches striding past wildebeests grazing in the sun.Wide stretches of land dotted with wild grasses create a habitat that feels true to nature.In the Wild Australia Zone, you’ll spot animals that call the country home-kangaroos bounding across the grass, tall emus strutting by, and black swans gliding over the water.The enclosures recreate the feel of the Australian bush, with dry earth underfoot and eucalyptus leaves swaying overhead.The Amazon Forest Zone teems with tropical life, from bright macaws streaking through the canopy to rare orchids hidden in the shade.It’s home to reptiles, birds, and small mammals, all tucked into a dense, humid space that smells faintly of moss.Children’s Zoo is a hands-on area where kids can meet friendly farm animals, like a soft-eared goat.Kids get to roll up their sleeves and learn how to care for animals, watching closely as they move, eat, and play.The zoo’s home to elephants, bears, sloths, and curious little meerkats, along with birds ranging from soaring eagles to dark, watchful vultures.The enclosures are built to feel open, with broad spaces, patches of grass and rocky ground, leafy cover, and activities that keep the animals healthy and acting as they would in the wild.You’ll find shady spots to rest, a couple of inviting cafés, and kiosks with hands‑on displays, all designed to make your visit comfortable and engaging.Visitor Information - Summer hours run from May through October, open every day from 8:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m., when the doors close and the evening air starts to cool.From November to April, we’re open every day from 9:00 in the morning until 3:30 in the afternoon, with doors closing at 5:00 sharp.The zoo shuts its gates every Monday so workers can repair fences and sweep the paths.Tickets are affordable, and kids, students, and seniors can snag a discount - think half-price for a sunny afternoon show.You might also find tickets for special events, along with guided tours-sometimes even ones that start just as the evening lights come on.You can reach the zoo easily by metro or bus, with stops just a short walk from the entrance.The zoo’s paths are smoothly paved, making it easy to push a stroller or guide a wheelchair past the lion enclosure.If you’re visiting, aim for early morning or late afternoon - that’s when the animals are most lively, rustling through the grass or calling to each other.Wear comfortable shoes-you’ll be covering a lot of ground at the zoo, and there’s no way to see every exhibit without walking past long rows of enclosures.Bring a camera-you’ll find plenty of great chances to capture wildlife, like a heron cutting through the morning mist.You’re welcome to bring your own snacks or drinks and settle in at one of the marked picnic spots.Just remember-no open flames or cooking, so leave the grill at home.We offer guided tours for schools and groups, giving you a closer look at the animals-like the rough texture of a tortoise’s shell-and the work behind our conservation efforts.At Kharkiv Zoo’s Conservation and Education center, staff work hands-on with animal conservation and breeding programs, from tracking rare bird hatchlings to caring for newborn cubs.It brings environmental lessons to life with hands-on workshops, lively presentations, and exhibits you can touch and explore.The zoo works with groups around the world to raise animal welfare standards, from building larger enclosures to ensuring fresh water every day.Kharkiv Zoo blends its century-old charm with up-to-date animal care, drawing families, travelers, and wildlife lovers who pause to watch a tiger stretch in the sun.
