Nestled by the Aare River, Bern Zoo, or Tierpark Dählhölzli, promises a fascinating day out. Spread over 15 hectares, the zoo is home to over 200 species of animals from diverse habitats. Highlights include native species and exotic creatures in naturalistic enclosures. Perfect for family outings, the zoo aims to educate and inspire visitors of all ages.
Zoo Bern, officially known as Tierpark Dählhölzli, is a delightful retreat along the Aare River in Bern. Founded in 1937, it was first conceptualised in 1871 with a focus on European animal species. The zoo spans approximately 15 hectares and is home to over 200 species of animals. It has both indigenous Swiss fauna and exotic animals from around the globe.
The zoo is renowned for its commitment to conservation, education, and research. It offers numerous programs highlighting the importance of biodiversity and ecosystem preservation. Its enclosures are designed to replicate the natural habitats of the animals. Here, you can explore the vivarium, home to an impressive array of tropical species and Switzerland's largest reef. You can also enjoy a hands-on encounter in the petting zoo. Zoo Bern is a prime example of modern zoological practices. It lets you witness creatures ranging from majestic leopards and seals to lynxes.
Highlights
• Visit Zoo Bern, or Tierpark Dählhölzli, home to over 3,000 animals from different habitats.
• Engage with exotic and native species in their naturalistic habitats year-round.
• Participate in interactive educational programs to learn about wildlife conservation.
• Enjoy up-close animal encounters in spacious, well-structured environments.
• Visit the vivarium to see tropical species and the largest reef in Switzerland.
How To Reach
By Road: Zoo Bern is located around 3.3 kilometres from the Bern city centre.
By Car: From the city centre of Bern, the zoo is easily accessible by car. Start on Speichergasse, heading towards the Aarbergergasse. Then, follow signs for Laupen/Zollikofen leading onto Schwarztorstrasse. Continue onto Thunplatz and follow signs for Thunstrasse/Zoo. Alternatively, you can drive on A6 and exit onto Bern-Ostring. From here, follow the signposts to the Zoo. The distance is about 3.3 kilometres and takes around 10 to 20 minutes.
By Bike: Cycling is a popular and eco-friendly way to get around Bern. From Bern city centre, you can bike towards Thunplatz via Bundesgasse and Thunstrasse. This route leads straight to the zoo. There are dedicated bicycle paths most of the way, and the ride takes about 15 minutes.
By Bus: Bern's local bus network can get you close to the zoo however, might require a short walk or tram connection. From Bern main station (near Bern linen weavers), take bus 19 towards Elfenau and get off at Tierpark. From there, the zoo's entrance is 550 metres, or 2 minutes away.
By Tram: The most straightforward method of public transport within the city is by tram. Tram number 5 towards Ostring departs from Bern main station. It stops directly at "Tierpark" stop outside the zoo. The tram runs every 6 to 10 minutes and takes about 10 minutes.
On Foot: If you are in the mood for a walk, Zoo Bern is about a 30-minute walk (1.7 kilometres) from Bern's city centre. Take the MarziliBähnli road via the Kleine Schanze or walk down to the Aare. From here, follow the road to Schönausteg, which marks the entrance to the zoo.
Best Time To Visit
Zoo Bern is delightful all year round, offering unique experiences each season.
- Best Day of the Week: Weekdays are ideal for a visit as they are typically less crowded. This is when you will have more space and time to enjoy the zoo without the hustle and bustle.
- Best Time of the Day: Try to visit in the mornings or late afternoons. Animals are most active during these times. These hours also increase your chances of witnessing feeding sessions.
Other Essential Information
1. Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing to enhance your experience.
2. Use the Zoo Bern map available at the entrance to find exhibits easily.
3. Pack a picnic or enjoy meals at the Eulen Bistro inside the zoo.
4. Check the schedule for animal feeding times to see more active behaviour.
5. Observe from a distance, respecting the animals' home environments.
6. Take photos without flash to keep animals comfortable and undisturbed.
Explore the Vivarium and Tropical House
Step into the lush, tropical ambience of the Vivarium at Zoo Bern. Here, a warm, humid atmosphere welcomes you to explore an exotic array of flora and fauna. This glasshouse is abundant with life, from colourful birds and reptiles to amphibians. As you navigate this area, you can observe the intricacies of different ecosystems. The Vivarium also has mangrove swamps and Amazonian waters. Each ecosystem is meticulously recreated to support various species. It also supports animals like the nimble marmosets and sneaky crocodiles. The vivarium also emphasises the importance of ecosystem preservation.
Witness the Bear Enclosures and BearPark
Venture into the Bear Enclosures during your visit to the Zoo Bern. This is where you can find European brown bears and other native species like lynxes and wolves. The adjacent Bear Park offers an elevated platform for viewing these majestic creatures. Here, you can learn about the conservation efforts dedicated to these animals. You can also learn about the zoo’s role in protecting these species from the brink of extinction. This area of the zoo shows how humans and wildlife conservation can work together.
Enjoy Interactive Animal Feeding Sessions
Participate in the guided animal feeding sessions during your visit to the zoo. These sessions offer an up-close encounter with some of the zoo's animals. As you feed the animals, you can also gain insights into their dietary habits. At the zoo, you can feed otters, seals, and even the rare and majestic musk oxen. The sessions are quite educational and also provide unique photo opportunities. While feeding, you can also interact with these animals under careful supervision.
Relax at the Aare River and Children’s Zoo
Take a stroll along the serene banks of the Aare River. This area of the zoo has enclosures that house native Swiss animals like the ibex and the chamois. This part of the zoo offers a peaceful retreat from the more bustling areas. Additionally, the Children’s Zoo allows young ones to interact with farm animals. It provides a hands-on educational experience about domestic species. Here, you can pet and feed animals under supervision, while also learning about farm life.
Discover the Exotic Birds in the Aviary
The Aviary at Zoo Bern is a haven for bird enthusiasts. It is home to species ranging from Alpine marmots to exotic flamingos and Dalmatian pelicans. As you walk through this bird paradise, you can observe these creatures in a setting that replicates their natural habitats. The Aviary replicates habits ranging from rocky Alpine cliffs to tropical wetlands. Listen to the calls and songs of these birds while you are here. During your visit, you might even witness a bird-feeding session. This session offers a chance to learn about the behaviours and diets of the birds here.
