Dresden Zoo

Located on the southern edge of the Großer Garten park, just about two kilometres from the Frauenkirche in the centre of the baroque Elbe metropolis, Germany’s fourth oldest zoo offers a captivating nature and relaxation experience for all ages. If you want to get up close to the animals, you can purchase your ticket in advance and avoid the long queues at the entrance.

New: The Orangutan House

Visit the Orangutan House, which opened in July 2024, the largest construction project in Dresden Zoo’s over 160-year history. The orangutans now have much more space, numerous climbing opportunities, and quiet retreat areas. In their new outdoor enclosure, the animals can climb high and explore their surroundings. In addition to the orangutans, other Southeast Asian animals, such as charming smooth-coated otters, binturongs, and impressive reticulated pythons, have found a new home here. An interactive exhibition provides exciting insights into the tropical rainforest and its threats.

Walk-through Enclosures

A special highlight of Dresden Zoo is the walk-through enclosures, which offer unique animal observation opportunities. In the flamingo aviary, you can move right among the pink birds. A winding visitor path leads you to the red kangaroos, and giraffes and zebras can be observed at eye level from a peninsula or a viewing tower.

The Little Koala Star

A true highlight in 2023 was the birth of a koala joey, which has been enchanting visitors ever since. Koalas are among the most popular animals in Dresden Zoo. Don’t miss the commented weigh-ins that take place every Wednesday and Sunday at 11 am.

Animal Diversity

Dresden Zoo is home to more than 1,000 animals from over 200 species. Discover African elephants, meerkats, giraffes, zebras, snow leopards, Humboldt penguins, giant tortoises, and red pandas in naturalistic enclosures. In the Prof. Brandes House, you will encounter numerous species of tree-dwellers, including guerezas, beard apes, and sloths swinging freely above the heads of visitors. The Sunda gharial, measuring almost 4 metres, is a real crowd-puller.

Children on the Move

In addition to the animal experience, many play opportunities delight the zoo’s young visitors. Children can romp, slide, climb, scramble, or swing on a total of seven adventure playgrounds. In summer, the water playground offers refreshing variety. During the Saxon school holidays, the zoo offers a colourful daily programme for kids and families.