Tierpark Zoo
Berlin has two fabulous zoos. Tierpark is the larger of the two, but more tourisits visit Zoo Berlin as it’s closer to the city centre. Tierpark Berlin is a much larger and younger zoo and, although farther from the city centre, it's on the U5 underground line making it easy to access.
Why are there two zoos in Berlin? It results from the city being divided into east and west after the Second World War. Tierpark Berlin was opened in 1955 to address the lack of a zoo in East Berlin. Now that Germany and Berlin are reunified, the result is two excellent zoos that now work closely together through conservation and breeding programs helping preserve and protect many endangered species.
The largest zoo in Europe, at 160 acres, Tierpark covers twice the area of Zoo Berlin. The extra space combined with having less than half as many animals means more spacious enclosures and less crowding for the animals. This is a clear advantage.
Because of the larger size, be certain to wear appropriate shoes as you will put in a lot of steps exploring the zoo.
Allow plenty of time. You can easily spend a full day as you journey around the world of animals. There are over 7000 animals representing over 800 species waiting to be discovered.
Visitors are delighted by the sight of herds of giraffes and elephants wandering in their large enclosures. Be sure to check out the famous Flamingo Lagoon and Camel Pasture.
For an added fee, individuals or small groups (adults only) can schedule a guided tour with a zookeeper inside the enclosures of certain species. Subject to change, these are available for mooses, giraffes, elephants, black lemurs, and giant tortoises. They must be pre-booked on the official website linked to below.
For a closure view of the animals, try arriving at the enclosure during their scheduled feeding time.
The zoo offers free electric train rides and exciting themed playgrounds for kids making this a wonderful family destination.
Tierpark zoo was established on the grounds of the historic Friedrichsfelde Palace which you can see during your visit. On weekends starting at 12 noon you can experience a free 20 minute guided tour of the Palace by simply showing up at the entrance.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: YesTierpark Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays
- Monday: 9:00 AM – 6:30 PM
- Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 6:30 PM
- Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 6:30 PM
- Thursday: 9:00 AM – 6:30 PM
- Friday: 9:00 AM – 6:30 PM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM – 6:30 PM
- Sunday: 9:00 AM – 6:30 PM
Address: Am Tierpark 125, 10319 Berlin, Germany
Official Website: Tierpark
Tierpark Reviews
Rated
out of 5 Tierpark Berlin is one of the largest and most well-known zoos in Germany, located in the eastern part of Berlin in the Friedrichsfelde district. Opened in 1955, it covers an area of approximately 160 hectares (about 400 acres), making it larger than the more famous Berlin Zoological Garden. Here are the details about Tierpark Berlin, its contents, and why it is famous:
Contents of Tierpark Berlin
— Animal Collection:
— Tierpark Berlin is home to a diverse range of animals, including over 7,000 creatures representing more than 900 species.
— It features a mix of exotic and native animals, including:
— Mammals such as elephants, giraffes, tigers, lions, and bears.
— Birds like flamingos, ostriches, and various species of parrots.
— Reptiles and amphibians, along with a significant collection of fish.
— There are also several endangered species, focusing on conservation and breeding programs.
— Habitats and Enclosures:
— The zoo emphasizes naturalistic habitats where animals can live in environments that mimic their wild surroundings.
— The park includes large enclosures, such as those for elephants, where visitors can observe animals in spaces that allow for natural behavior.
— Educational Facilities:
— Tierpark Berlin includes several educational facilities aimed at promoting awareness about wildlife conservation and animal behavior.
— There are guided tours, workshops, and educational talks for visitors of all ages.
— Special Exhibits and Attractions:
— The park hosts various themed areas and attractions, including a petting zoo, a wildlife sanctuary, and a large aquarium.
— Seasonal events and activities are also organized throughout the year.
— Scenic Landscapes:
— The zoo is set in a scenic landscape with beautiful gardens, historical buildings, and water features, making it a pleasant place for visitors to stroll.
— Attractions like the historical Friedrichsfelde Palace add cultural value to the experience.
Why It Is Famous
— Size and Diversity:
— As one of the largest zoos in Europe, Tierpark Berlin is well-known for its extensive grounds and variety of animal species, drawing visitors from around the world.
— Conservation Efforts:
— The zoo is heavily involved in wildlife conservation and breeding programs for endangered species. Its dedication to preserving biodiversity is a significant aspect of its reputation.
— Family-Friendly Experience:
— Tierpark Berlin is considered a family-friendly destination, offering activities and spaces for children, making it popular with families visiting Berlin.
— Historical Significance:
— The zoo's establishment during the Cold War era and its development over the years provide an interesting historical context, particularly regarding wildlife conservation efforts in East Germany.
— Unique Atmosphere:
— Unlike some other urban zoos, Tierpark Berlin has a unique charm with its vast open areas and attractive landscapes, allowing visitors to enjoy a more spacious experience.
— Cultural Ties:
— The zoo has made its mark on popular culture and has been featured in various documentaries, TV shows, and films advocating for animal rights and conservation issues.
Tierpark Berlin serves as an essential institution for wildlife conservation, education, and recreation, making it a must-visit venue for both locals and tourists in Berlin.
shamsan alammari - in the last week
Berlin has two equally excellent zoos, one East, the other West.
Berlin's Tierpark is situated in the Eastern half of the city. At 160 hectares, it is one of the largest zoos in Europe, so expect to walk a lot if you want to see it all! (Granted there is a little electric train that can take you around part of it). Its biggest focus is on hoofed animals, including some like the gayal, Marco Polo sheep and reedbuck that can ONLY be found here. There are vast paddocks for most of the animals here, and you're even allowed to walk your dog! That being said, there are a couple of indoor areas, like the monkey house and the Alfred-Brehm house, and they are excellent.
However, I must admit I don't like their recent addition of dinosaur animatronics; instead of going for scientific accuracy and actual education, the few I saw just perpetuated Hollywood hokum and mistruths about these amazing creatures. Sure, kids will like them, but it's sad that the Tierpark didn't take this opportunity to educate the public beyond pop culture nonsense...
But regardless, this is an excellent zoo, well worth anyone's time! I thoroughly recommend you pay it a visit.
baranguirus - in the last week
It's amazing.
Most animals seem to have decently large enclosures. Of course, stuff like tigers cannot really get a big enough enclosure, as they probably roam a lot in real life. But most seemed to have got appropriately sized enclosures.
The cool thing is, it feels more like a park that has animals than a zoo. It is also huge! If you want to visit everything and read every info board about the animals, prepare at least a full day, maybe two!
Also, you can get very close to some animals.
You can go in the lemur forest, for example. It is a forest, surrounded by a fence. There are a few free-roaming lemurs. The video shows one of them on the visitor benches.
Georgi Lazarov - 2 months ago
Great place to hangout with family and kids. Very well maintained and clean. Few eating joints serving delicious food within park. For people living in Berlin or Brandenburg, suggest to buy annual pass as visiting complete park in 1 day with kids is difficult.
Pradeep Mishra - 5 months ago
This is one of the two Berlin zoos, this one is being related to the Eastern Berlin. It is very big and calm park with many animals to observe and cafe areas, I really enjoy the flamingos field in particular. You can see tigers and different wild cats as well, and many others. I highly recommend to visit it when you need a peaceful moment away from the big city.
Anastasiia Shehenova - 4 months ago
Directions
How to get to Tierpark by U-Bahn, S-Bahn or MetroTram
Nearest U-Bahn, S-Bahn or MetroTram Line(s): U5, S5, S7, S75
Nearest U-Bahn, S-Bahn or MetroTram Station(s): U Tierpark, S Friedrichsfelde Ost
Tierpark station is located right at the entrance. If coming by S-Bahn, exit at S Friedrichsfelde Ost station and catch a 27, 37 ,67, or M17 tram south to Tierpark Station
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