Zoos remained one of those, and they have long been a critical aspect of conservation, education, and wildlife. Although many zoos worldwide provide thrilling and interesting collection of the animals but only few can say that they are largest in the world either in land area as well as number of species/total number of animals.
In this guide, we look at eight of the biggest and best zoos around the world that combine the best of biodiversity, the experience and effort to preserve nature. From family vacation ideas to wildlife enthusiasts, these are the zoos to add to your bucket list!
1. Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium- Omaha, Nebraska, U.S.A
Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo is consistently listed among the best zoos in the world and is known for both its size and innovation. It features the globe’s largest indoor desert and one of the largest indoor rainforests, allowing people to experience these ecosystems in one space.
Land Area: 130 acres
Number of Animals: 17,000+
Number of Species: 950+
Highlights:
- Dome of the desert reproduction of the Namib Desert ecosystem
- Free-flying birds and primates in Armorichi’s Lied Jungle
- Underwater tunnel through which sharks and other sea turtles swim at Scott Aquarium
- It is entertaining and educational, with an emphasis on conservation and naturalistic displays.
2. Berlin Zoo – Berlin, Germany
Berlin Zoo is among the world oldest and most diverse zoos, having opened the gates as early as 1844. Though its land area is relatively small compared to the other zoos on this list, it holds the record for the most diverse animal species.
Land Area: 86 acres
Number of Animals: 20,000+
Number of Species: 1,300+
Highlights:
- Pandas and elephant and polar bears
- Located behind the zoo, Aquarium Berlin houses one of the most complete collections in Europe.
- Central in the heart of Berlin and with a rich historical legacy
- Culture centred on endangered species breeding
- Ideal for animal lovers, a rare opportunity in Berlin Zoo to view thousands of animals in one site.
3. Toronto Zoo – Ontario, Canada
It is the largest zoo by acreage in Canada and one of the largest in the world. The zoo is divided into seven geographic zones, each emphasizing the natural environments of the animals housed within it.
Land Area: 710 acres
Number of Animals: 5,000+
Number of Species: 450+
Highlights:
- Zones : Indo-Malaya, Africa, Americas, Tundra Trek and others
- Exhibits like the Gorilla Rainforest and other like Great Barrier Reef
- Wildlife conservation and year-round education programs
- The country’s best zoo, with many walking paths & large open areas
- If you seek a full-day outdoor wildlife experience to attract you, they are ideal for you at the Toronto Zoo.
4. Moscow Zoo – Moscow, Russia
The Moscow Zoo, one of the oldest in Europe dating back to 1864, is also the biggest zoo for species diversity. Situated in the very center of the capital, it is a hive of family activity as well as a hub for tourists.
Land Area: 53 acres
Number of Animals: 8,000+
Number of Species: 1,000+
Highlights:
- An assortment of creatures that resides in every continent
- Regional Education Center that hosts several children programs
- The 3rd largest zoological museum in Russia
- Modernized exhibit space and visitor amenities
- A backdrop of its famous old from the beginning time, mixing with the cutting-edge creature welfare practices in a city zoo.
5. San Diego Zoo – North America, USA
Balboa Park is home to the world-famous San Diego Zoo, which has gained international acclaim for its innovative open-air zoo exhibit and pioneering conservation programs. Annually, it compels millions of visitors and is regarded as one of the best zoos globally.
Land Area: 100 acres
Number of Animals: 14,000+
Number of Species: 650+
Highlights:
- Guided bus tours and Skyfari aerial tram
- African elephants, polar bears, koalas in Koalafornia
- Participation in international conservation projects
- Steppe – San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance works with 100+ species local to the region
- This zoo provides an opportunity to educate, inspire, and entertain all ages in a dynamic environment.
6. Bronx Zoo, New York City, NY.
Dominating the Bronx borough of New York City, the bronx zoo is one of the largest metropolitan zoos in the world. It is offering a combination of fauna and flora within the heart of the urban area.
Land Area: 265 acres
Number of Animals: 6,000+
Number of Species: 700+
Highlights:
- Congo Gorilla Forest, Himalayan Highlands and JungleWorld
- Treetop Adventure courses ziplining
- Wildlife Conservation Society, through dedicated conservation
- Camps and programs and animal experiences and more
- An essential stop in New York City for those looking for a little nature.
7. Beijing Zoo – Beijing, China
Beijing Zoo is one of the largest animal collections in Asia and is most well-known for giant pandas but has animals from all over the world.
Land Area: 220 acres
Number of Animals: 14,500+
Number of Species: 950+
Highlights:
- Giant Panda House – a visitor favourite
- Endangered Chinese species, such as the South China tiger and the golden snub-nosed monkey
- Chinese-style gardens and architecture
- Historial Roots As Far Back As 1906
- The zoo is a peaceful fusion of education, tourism and culture in China´s capital.
8. National Park, Arignar Anna Zoological Park (Vandalur Zoo) – Chennai
Vandalur Zoo is the largest zoo in India by population and among the largest in the world by area, located in Vandalur on the outskirts of Chennai, India. It encompasses 602 hectares of natural habitats, which places the environment as number one priority.
Land Area: 1,500 acres
Number of Animals: 2,500+
Number of Species: 170+
Highlights:
- Lion safari zone and deer safari zone
- House of the nocturnal animals, butterfly park and aquarium
- Endangered species breeding center
- Electric vehicles and bicycles for green sight-seeing
Wildlife lovers, families, and student groups can also spot wildlife in Vandalur Zoo, which is surprisingly one of South India best destinations.
Final Thoughts
Modern zoos are more than just displays of animals, they are hubs of conservation, education, and in protection of endangered species. Some of the largest zoos in the world also allow us to see some animals up close and personal and raise biodiversity and environmental awareness.
These 8 largest zoos in the world promise memorable experiences for both children and adults regardless if you are attracted by unique subspecies, special enclosures and new approaches or beautiful sceneries.
Are you going to plan your next wildlife adventure? Enjoy one of these truly global safaris without ever leaving the city.