10 Largest Zoos in the World Ranked

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Who doesn’t love a trip to the zoo? While many areas have a local zoo to check out, there are some truly amazing zoos around the world with impressive exhibits. Some of them are home to tens of thousands of animals, spanning thousands of acres. Many of them offer something for everyone, whether you are interested in animals or conservation. Here is a roundup of the world’s largest zoos. Have you visited any of them?

1. Sri Venkateswara Zoological Park (India)

Sri Venkateswara Zoological Park, located in Andhra Pradesh, India, is truly a wonder to behold. The zoo covers more than 5,500 acres, making it one of the largest in the world. It boasts a diverse range of species, including rare tigers, elephants, and over 1,000 bird species. Sri Venkateswara Zoological Park is known for its eco-friendly design and focus on animal welfare, allowing visitors to enjoy a naturalistic experience. Special exhibits like the African Lion Safari and reptile enclosures are crowd favorites.

2. Columbus Zoo and Aquarium (Ohio, USA)

The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium spread across 588 acres, is home to thousands of animals and over 100 species of fish. Many families love to check out the Columbus Zoo and it is rated among the best to visit in the United States. It is well-known for its commitment to animal conservation and its immersive exhibits, like the Heart of Africa and Polar Frontier. The zoo’s incredible layout enables visitors to interact with animals from around the world, including tigers, rhinos, and elephants. Visitors also enjoy the aquarium’s marine life exhibits, which feature sea turtles and sharks.

3. National Zoological Gardens (South Africa)

The National Zoological Gardens in Pretoria, South Africa, spans 210 acres and is one of the largest zoos in Africa. It is home to over 9,000 animals from 700 species, including African elephants, lions, and cheetahs. The zoo also houses a variety of endangered species, such as the white rhino and the African wild dog. Its well-maintained exhibits include African savanna, Asian rainforest, and polar bear enclosures.

4. Henry Doorly Zoo (Nebraska, USA)

The Henry Doorly Zoo in Omaha, Nebraska, is not only vast but also world-renowned for its innovation in animal habitats. With over 130 acres of exhibits, it is home to over 17,000 animals from around the globe. It is the second on the list located in the U.S. Highlights include the world’s largest indoor desert and nocturnal exhibits, providing immersive experiences for visitors. The zoo’s African Grasslands exhibit is one of the most expansive in the world, featuring giraffes, zebras, and elephants.

5. Smithsonian National Zoological Park (Washington D.C., USA)

You might be surprised to see another U.S.-based zoo on the list, but this D.C. zoo is notable. Part of the Smithsonian Institution, the National Zoological Park spans 163 acres in the heart of Washington D.C. It is home to more than 2,700 animals representing over 390 species. The zoo is perhaps best known for its panda exhibits, where visitors can observe these iconic creatures up close. The zoo’s Asian Trail and Amazonia exhibits also offer immersive experiences with a variety of species.

6. Moscow Zoo (Russia)

The Moscow Zoo, established in 1864, is one of Russia’s oldest and most prestigious zoological parks. With 53 acres of space, the zoo is home to more than 1,000 species of animals, including Siberian tigers, polar bears, and camels. Recent renovations have made the zoo more modern and visitor-friendly, with enhanced exhibits and educational displays. The zoo is known for its historical architecture and beautiful landscaping, offering visitors a pleasant walk through its grounds.

7. San Diego Zoo Safari Park (California, USA)

Located just north of San Diego, California, the San Diego Zoo Safari Park spans over 1,800 acres, making it one of the largest safari parks in the world. It features large, open-air habitats that replicate the natural environments of species from Africa, Asia, and North America. The Safari Park is home to over 3,500 animals, including giraffes, elephants, and rhinos, with a focus on conservation efforts. Guests can enjoy exciting activities like the Africa Tram Safari and animal encounters. Oftentimes, people around the country await the birth of animals at this zoo, with news outlets taking a special interest in new pandas and other animals born here.

8. The Bronx Zoo (New York, USA)

When you think of New York City, you probably don’t think about the zoo, but NYC is home to one of the largest, best zoos around the world. The Bronx Zoo, one of the largest metropolitan zoos in the world, covers 265 acres and houses over 4,000 animals. It is renowned for its naturalistic exhibits, such as the Congo Gorilla Forest and Tiger Mountain. The zoo’s African Plains exhibit offers visitors a chance to see lions, zebras, and gazelles in a sweeping savanna-like setting. The Bronx Zoo is deeply involved in global conservation efforts and has a strong focus on endangered species.

9. Toronto Zoo (Canada)

The Toronto Zoo spans 710 acres and is home to over 16,000 animals from around the world. It has specialized exhibits such as the Tundra Trek, African Rainforest, and the Great Barrier Reef, each offering an immersive experience. The zoo emphasizes conservation and environmental education through hands-on learning programs. Visitors can explore diverse habitats and see animals like pandas, tigers, and polar bears.

10. Beijing Zoo (China)

The Beijing Zoo, one of the oldest and most famous zoos in China, spans 219 acres and is home to over 14,500 animals. It is particularly famous for its giant panda exhibits, which attract millions of visitors every year. The zoo houses species from all over the world, including Asian elephants, giraffes, and lions. The zoo’s exhibits are well-maintained and feature a mix of traditional and modern designs.

Explore the Wonders of the Animal Kingdom

Every single one of these zoos offers something special. There are vast exhibits, showing off some of the unique wildlife around the globe. Each one has a level of commitment to conservation, which is on full display. If you’re an animal lover, there is something to see at each of these locations. Consider adding some of them to your upcoming travel plans!

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