The 5 Best Zoo Safaris in Europe for Families with Kids
As parents, we’re always looking for ways to keep our little ones entertained while also sneaking in some educational moments (because who doesn’t love a good animal fact?). If you’re a family that loves to combine adventure with learning, then a zoo safari in Europe is one of the best ways to kill a few hours, see some wild creatures, and maximize your child’s joy.
Trust us, we’ve been there—my daughter’s enthusiasm every time we visit one of these zoos is absolutely contagious.
In this guide, we’re sharing The 5 Best Zoo Safaris in Europe for Families with Kids—these are the spots that have made it onto our personal travel list for good reason.
Whether it’s a safari in Spain or a wildlife park in Italy, these zoos offer a memorable experience for both the young and the young at heart. Let’s get started!
Quick List: 5 Best Zoo Safaris in Europe for Families with Kids
- Bioparc Valencia, Spain
- Cotswold Wildlife Park, England
- EAZA European Safari, The Netherlands
- Parc Zoologique de Paris, France
- Zoosafari Fasanolandia, Italy
1. Bioparc Valencia, Spain
Bioparc Valencia isn’t your typical zoo—this place offers a safari-style adventure that feels like you’ve been transported straight into the African savannah. When you step inside, you’re not just looking at animals in cages; you’re walking through natural habitats where giraffes, lions, and elephants roam free (well, sort of).
Why it’s great for kids: Kids will love the immersive experience and feel like they’re in a real safari, especially when they see the towering giraffes and massive elephants wandering nearby. The park offers various educational programs that make learning fun and engaging for little ones.
Unique Features: The African Savannah section is a major highlight, where you can drive through and see a wide range of animals, including lemurs, flamingos, and rhinos. The park also offers animal shows, feeding sessions, and the opportunity for kids to learn about wildlife conservation. It’s not just a zoo—it’s an adventure.
2. Cotswold Wildlife Park, England
If you’re traveling to the UK, Cotswold Wildlife Park is a must-visit. It’s the perfect spot for a family day out because it combines a zoo safari with kid-friendly activities. My daughter has a special love for lemurs, and Cotswold delivers on that front with some unforgettable animal encounters!
Why it’s great for kids: The park is incredibly interactive, and it’s easy to spend the whole day here without the kids getting bored. You’ll find a gentle approach to the safari experience, with the chance to pet and feed some animals, which makes it ideal for younger children.
Unique Features: The park has a miniature railway that takes visitors on a scenic ride around the zoo, offering a unique perspective of the animals. You’ll also find a number of play areas scattered around, so kids can burn off some energy after their safari tour. Plus, the zoo’s relaxed atmosphere makes it a fun day out without the crowds.
3. EAZA European Safari, The Netherlands
Located within the Ouwehands Dierenpark, the EAZA European Safari is perfect for families seeking a full-on safari experience. This one is for those who want to get up close and personal with wildlife, especially in the gorgeous Dutch countryside.
Why it’s great for kids: The safari park offers a real sense of adventure and immersion, which will excite kids of all ages. It’s a fantastic place for families who want to see wild animals in a more natural setting, and there are plenty of opportunities to spot animals during a leisurely safari drive.
Unique Features: The safari includes a drive-through section where you can spot giraffes, zebras, and even lions up close. Additionally, the park hosts various wildlife demonstrations, and there’s an educational center where kids can engage with interactive exhibits. It’s one of those places where your child will leave knowing a lot more about nature—and possibly dreaming of becoming a zookeeper!
P.S. Another incredible wildlife park in The Netherlands is Beekse Bergen located in Hilvarenbeek. This was our daughter’s first ever experience of this kind!
4. Parc Zoologique de Paris, France
The Parc Zoologique de Paris, also known as the Paris Zoological Park, offers a uniquely designed safari experience that brings the animal kingdom to life. This isn’t just a zoo; it’s a place where kids can explore different regions of the world through themed biozones.
Why it’s great for kids: This zoo is known for its educational focus and its redesigned enclosures, which replicate natural habitats. The exhibits are designed to teach kids about ecosystems and conservation in a way that feels like an adventure. My daughter loved pretending she was a wildlife explorer as we walked through the different biozones!
Unique Features: The redesigned biozones are the star of the show—there’s the Patagonian zone, the African savannah, and the Madagascar area—all providing different opportunities to spot animals like cheetahs, giraffes, and monkeys. The zoo also has a variety of workshops for kids, making it both fun and educational.
5. Zoosafari Fasanolandia, Italy
Last but certainly not least, Zoosafari Fasanolandia in Italy brings the African safari experience to families in a big way. The zoo is located in the scenic countryside of Puglia and offers one of the best drive-through safaris in Europe.
Why it’s great for kids: Zoosafari Fasanolandia is a kid-friendly paradise, with everything from a wild safari adventure to a fantastic amusement park. The zoo is less crowded than many of the major tourist hotspots, which means your little ones can experience the animals without feeling rushed.
Unique Features: The highlight here is the drive-through safari—you can hop in your car and drive through the park while seeing lions, tigers, giraffes, and even bears up close! It’s an experience that will definitely leave a lasting impression on your little explorers. Plus, there’s an amusement park with rides, making it an ideal stop for a full day of family fun.
FAQs: Zoo Safari Parks in Europe
What is the best zoo safari in Europe for toddlers?
If you’re traveling with toddlers, you’ll want a zoo that offers easy walking paths, interactive exhibits, and a relaxed atmosphere. Cotswold Wildlife Park and Bioparc Valencia are great choices. The gentle interactions with animals and easy-to-navigate setups make both of these spots perfect for families with younger children.
Do any of these zoo safaris offer animal encounters?
Yes! Most of these zoos offer some form of animal encounter. Bioparc Valencia and Zoosafari Fasanolandia stand out for offering opportunities to see animals up close, whether it’s through feeding sessions or unique viewing experiences. Kids can feed lemurs, pet farm animals, or even get a closer look at elephants during feeding times.
Are zoo safaris in Europe wheelchair and stroller accessible?
Yes! All of the zoo safaris listed here are accessible to families with strollers and wheelchairs. Zoos like Parc Zoologique de Paris have well-designed paths, while places like Zoosafari Fasanolandia offer vehicles for easier access to certain areas.
Can you spend the whole day at a zoo safari?
Absolutely! The best zoo safaris are designed to offer a full-day experience, with plenty to see and do. From animal feeding times to educational workshops and playgrounds, you’ll have more than enough to keep the whole family entertained.
Affiliate Disclaimer: Please note that some links found in our posts are affiliate links. Should you choose to purchase through these links, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
