Burgers' Zoo, Arnhem

Attraction, Wildlife Park and Zoo in Arnhem

Burgers Zoo Arnhem
Burgers Zoo Arnhem
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Henk Monster

Burgers' Zoo is one of Arnhem's headline attractions: a large, beautifully designed zoo where you move through immersive “worlds” that feel more like ecosystems than enclosures. Set on the northern edge of the city, it's an easy day trip from central Arnhem and a standout stop if you're building a Netherlands itinerary that mixes cities with nature.

Even if you're not usually a “zoo person,” this one is worth considering for the way it blends indoor and outdoor habitats, making it a strong pick in colder or rainy weather too. If you're exploring Arnhem on a walking tour, pair the city center's highlights with a half-day or full-day detour here; inside the park, the best places to linger are the big biome halls where you can slow down and watch animal behavior up close.

History and Significance of the Burgers’ Zoo

Burgers' Zoo has a long-standing place in Dutch wildlife education and conservation, and it's widely known for pioneering the “ecodisplay” approach: building large-scale habitats that recreate real environments rather than focusing on small, individual exhibits. That design philosophy is a big reason the visit feels immersive and why many travelers describe it as more than a standard zoo.

Over time, the park expanded into multiple themed environments that let you experience very different climates and landscapes in one day. This matters not only for visitor experience, but also for animal welfare and enrichment, as the spaces are designed to encourage natural movement and behaviors.

Today, Burgers' Zoo is significant for how it balances entertainment with education: clear interpretation, thoughtful viewing points, and a layout that works well for families while still appealing to adults who want a slower, more nature-focused day out.

Things to See and Do in the Burgers’ Zoo

Plan your route around the major “worlds,” because they’re the heart of the experience. The indoor biomes are especially memorable: you can step into tropical warmth, wander through lush planting, and spot animals in a setting that feels like a living greenhouse crossed with a rainforest trail.

Don’t rush the aquatic and coastal-style areas either; they’re a great change of pace and often feel calmer than the busiest outdoor paths. If you’re visiting with kids, build in time for play areas and breaks, but even adults will appreciate how many viewpoints are designed for lingering rather than simply passing through.

For a well-paced day, mix indoor halls with outdoor loops so you’re not doing all the walking at once. Many visitors find a full day is ideal, especially if you want to stop for lunch, watch feedings or talks if available, and revisit a favorite habitat when it’s quieter.

How to Get to the Burgers’ Zoo

The nearest major airports are Amsterdam Schiphol Airport and Eindhoven Airport, with additional options via Rotterdam The Hague Airport or Düsseldorf Airport (Germany) depending on your route. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Arnhem on Booking.com.

From elsewhere in the Netherlands, Arnhem is straightforward to reach by train via Arnhem Centraal, which has frequent connections to major cities; from the station, local buses and taxis make the final leg simple. Train tickets and schedules are available directly through NS Dutch Railways and NS International for international services. However, for a smoother experience, we recommend using Omio, which simplifies the booking process and lets you compare prices and schedules all in one place.

If you’re driving, the zoo is easy to reach by road and has on-site parking right by the entrance, which is convenient for families and anyone traveling with strollers.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Burgers’ Zoo

  • Official website: https://www.burgerszoo.com/
  • Entrance fee: Adults: €29; Children (4–9): €26.50; Ages 0–3: free (online tickets may be slightly cheaper).
  • Opening hours: (Summer) Daily: 09:00–18:00. (Winter) Daily: 09:00–17:00.
  • Best time to visit: Arrive close to opening for the calmest paths and the best animal activity, especially on weekends and school holidays.
  • How long to spend: Budget a full day if you want to see all the biomes at a relaxed pace; a focused visit still takes at least 4–5 hours.
  • Accessibility: The park is generally stroller- and wheelchair-friendly with wide paths and plenty of indoor space, but expect a lot of walking.
  • Facilities: Multiple food stops, restrooms, and indoor areas make it comfortable in bad weather; bring a refillable bottle and plan a mid-visit break.

Where to Stay Close to the Burgers’ Zoo

The best area to base yourself is Arnhem city center near Arnhem Centraal for easy transport, dining, and a simple bus ride to the zoo.

If you want a classic, comfortable base with a central location, choose a well-connected city hotel so you can combine Burgers' Zoo with museums, parks, and restaurants without needing a car. For a quieter stay, look for properties on the greener edges of Arnhem where you can unwind after a full day of walking.

Holiday Inn Express Arnhem A reliable, practical choice near the center with an easy in-and-out routine for day trips.

Hotel Haarhuis A landmark-style stay right by the station, ideal if you’re arriving by train and want maximum convenience.

NH Arnhem Rijnhotel Great for river views and a calmer feel while still being close to the city and transport links.

Hotel Modez A more design-forward option that feels local and creative, good for couples and weekend breaks.

Van der Valk Hotel Arnhem A comfortable, car-friendly base close to green surroundings, convenient if you’re combining the zoo with nearby nature.

Is the Burgers’ Zoo Worth Visiting?

Yes, Burgers' Zoo is worth visiting if you want a full, immersive day that works in almost any weather, with thoughtful habitats and a layout that suits both families and adults. It's the kind of attraction that rewards slowing down: the more time you spend observing, the more you notice.

Honest Pivot: If you strongly prefer compact city attractions, dislike long walking days, or feel uncomfortable with animal attractions in general, you may be happier focusing on Arnhem’s museums, parks, and nearby nature areas instead.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.6 (40,140)

Reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with travelers praising the zoo’s immersive, well-designed habitats and the sense that animal welfare is prioritized. Many highlight the indoor biomes as a major plus in cold or rainy weather, and say the layout works well for families while still being enjoyable for adults. Common tips include planning for a full day and expecting some busy periods; occasional downsides mentioned are crowds at peak times and the amount of walking required.

RichRich
2 months ago
"Amazing!!! The first steps didn’t seem like it will be much yet quickly we realized how well thought is whole place. Really you see the animals andtheirs wellbeing is the highest priority. Still all is designed in such smart way that you able to observe them in awe! True treat for families but I guess it’s also a great idea for a date or solo experience. Enjoyed tons🙌🏼nThere are parts of it fully in dome that creates full experience of natural habitats- if you don’t look up it’s easily to feel like in a jungle or on some tropical place. Amazing!..."
Tim Lawson
2 weeks ago
"Great zoo to visit when in the Netherlands. Even when it's busy it's manageable and there's plenty of indoor exhibits for when it's cold or rainy.All the animals look well cared for and everything is laid out well for singles, couples, or families. Highly recommend if you're in the area...."
Taya Martin
3 months ago
"Such a beautiful and fun zoo! Would definitely recommend for adults and for children. As an adult that likes to go to zoo’s that are not just forkids, this is a great pick! A full day is needed to visit here and be prepared for different types of biomes, this is the most interesting ! There are restaurants located around, and I would recommend the Bush restaurant! The food is quite pricy for what it is...."

For Different Travelers

Burgers' Zoo can fit very different travel styles because it's both a big-ticket “day out” and a flexible, self-paced visit. The key is setting expectations: it's large, it's popular, and it's best enjoyed with breaks.

Families with Kids

This is an easy win for families because the habitats feel like adventures, and the indoor areas help a lot when the weather turns. Plan your day in chunks and rotate between “big wow” zones and downtime.

Bring snacks and schedule at least one longer rest stop so kids don’t burn out early. If you can, arrive early to enjoy the most popular areas before the midday rush.

Couples & Romantic Getaways

For couples, the appeal is the atmosphere: lush indoor biomes, slower paths, and plenty of spots to pause and people-watch. It’s a refreshing change from museum-hopping, especially if you want something playful but not overly childish.

Make it feel like a date by choosing a relaxed pace, sharing a long lunch, and revisiting your favorite habitat near the end when crowds thin out.

Budget Travelers

Burgers' Zoo can be a splurge, so it's best as your “one big paid attraction” day in Arnhem. To keep costs down, eat a solid breakfast, bring a water bottle, and consider packing snacks for between meals.

If you’re traveling with friends, compare transport options and time your visit for a full day so you’re getting maximum value from the ticket.

FAQs for Visiting Burgers’ Zoo

Getting There

Yes, it’s straightforward from the main station using local transport or a short taxi ride. Give yourself extra time during peak hours and weekends.
Yes, Arnhem is well connected by rail and the last leg is manageable by bus or taxi. Traveling car-free is common and convenient.
Yes, it works well as a day trip if you start early and plan for a full day on site. Aim to arrive near opening to avoid feeling rushed.

Tickets & Entry

Buying ahead is smart during busy periods to reduce waiting and lock in your plan. If you’re flexible, you can still often buy on the day.
Yes, children’s pricing is typically lower than adult pricing, and very young children may be free. Check the official ticket page for the exact brackets.
No, parking is usually a separate fee. If you’re driving, budget for it as an extra cost.

Visiting Experience

Yes, the indoor biomes make this one of the better all-weather attractions in the region. Dress in layers so you’re comfortable moving between climates.
It can get busy, but the park is large and crowds spread out. Arriving early and visiting popular zones first helps a lot.
For most visitors, yes. You can do a shorter visit, but the best experience comes from taking your time.

Tours, Context & Itineraries

Yes, but it’s best to keep the city portion light if you want a relaxed zoo visit. A morning city walk plus an afternoon at the zoo can work.
Yes, the layout is designed for self-guided exploration with clear pathways between major zones. Pick a few must-sees first, then fill in the rest.
Start with a short city-center walk and coffee, spend most of the day at the zoo, then return to town for dinner. This keeps the day enjoyable without overpacking it.

Photography

Yes, especially in the indoor biomes where you can shoot in controlled conditions. Bring a lens that handles lower light and moving subjects.
Some viewing areas involve glass, so reflections can happen. A lens hood and careful angles help.
Earlier in the day is often best for calmer scenes and clearer viewpoints. Late afternoon can also be nice if you’re staying until close.

Accessibility & Facilities

Yes, facilities are spread across the park and there are plenty of places to pause. Still, expect a lot of walking between zones.
Yes, the paths are generally wide and the indoor areas are practical for strollers. Try to avoid peak crowd times for easier movement.
The park is designed to be accessible, but distances are substantial. Plan a slower route and build in extra breaks.

Food & Breaks Nearby

Yes, you’ll find multiple food options on site, which makes a full-day visit easy. Consider eating slightly earlier or later than peak lunch time.
Many visitors bring snacks for convenience during a long day. If you want a full picnic-style meal, check the park’s current rules before you go.
Arnhem city center is the easiest choice for variety and atmosphere. Head back toward the station area if you want the widest selection.

Safety & Timing

Arrive close to opening for the smoothest entry and the best chance of quieter paths. This also helps you fit everything in without rushing.
Often, outdoor animals head toward indoor enclosures before closing time. If a specific species is your priority, visit earlier.
Yes, it’s a well-managed, family-oriented attraction and comfortable to visit alone. Keep an eye on closing times so you’re not hurrying at the end.

Nearby Attractions to the Burgers’ Zoo

  • Netherlands Open Air Museum (Nederlands Openluchtmuseum): A large, engaging museum park showcasing Dutch history and traditional buildings.
  • Park Sonsbeek: Arnhem's beloved green park with walking paths, viewpoints, and a relaxed local vibe.
  • Arnhem city center: Great for shopping streets, cafés, and an easy post-zoo dinner.
  • Eusebius Church: A major landmark with city views and a strong sense of Arnhem’s heritage.
  • National Park De Hoge Veluwe: A famous nature area nearby for cycling, walking, and wildlife spotting.

The Burgers' Zoo appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Arnhem!

Moira & Andy
Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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Planning Your Visit

Hours:

(Summer) Daily: 09:00-18:00.

(Winter) Daily: 09:00-17:00.

Price:

Adults: €29; Children (4-9): €26.50; Ages 0-3: free (online tickets may be slightly cheaper).

Address: 2V5X+58 Burgers' Zoo, Antoon van Hooffplein 1, 6816 SH Arnhem, Netherlands
Arnhem: 3 km
Telephone: +31 26 442 4534
Official Website

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