Zoos of Europe: Prague Zoo in winter

Let’s start, as usual, with history. The Prague Zoo was founded in 1931. From the very beginning, a place was set aside for him on a high hill a little far from the center. Therefore, even when Prague began to rapidly develop and become upset, the city did not manage to flood the territory of the zoo. Why is it important to know? Because the hill on which the zoo stands is very big. And if you want to get around all the animals, you need to either come early in the morning or plan at least two visits.

How much is it?

If you have noticed, we indicate the price of the entrance ticket to each zoo not only in the local currency, but also in euros at the current exchange rate. Even in countries with a stable economy, there is inflation, and the exchange rate will help to better understand how much it is today.

So, a basic ticket for an adult at the Prague Zoo costs 200 crowns (7.8 euros). Tickets for children, students and pensioners are 150 kroner (5.8 euros) each, but a valid document must be submitted. A passport, student card, birth certificate, and driver’s license are suitable. On Happy Monday, the ticket price for these categories is reduced to 50 kroner (1.9 euros). Children under the age of three are free, and for pensioners over the age of 70, a visit to the zoo costs a symbolic 1 kroner.

Almost immediately after the entrance, in front of the elegant enclosure with polar bears, there is an info stand. The management of the zoo proudly announces that in the ranking of zoos in the world, the Prague zoo takes seventh place, and also shares photos of famous sponsors of the zoo – for example, here you can see a photo of the Hollywood couple Jolie-Pitt before their divorce. In general, the tradition of sponsorship is very common in European zoos.

A private person or company takes care of one or more animals. As a sign of gratitude, the zoo places a logo near the enclosure or on an information stand, installs a commemorative plaque, and sometimes even names the animals in honor of the sponsor. But any visitor can take part in sponsorship: just scan the qr code on the sign and make a money transfer.

Looking at the Prague Zoo, you understand why you can’t do without the help of a sponsor. The Zoo is huge, the animals in it are fed and cared for, and the enclosures have recently been renovated. In addition to this, the zoo has several recreation areas, a corner for children’s entertainment, a cafe, sculptures and installations. There is even its own cable car that rises from the bottom of the zoo to the top of the hill. But the ticket for it costs 20 crowns – 0.7 euros.

So, who is waiting for us at the Prague Zoo? Almost five thousand inhabitants of type 681 (these data are constantly changing). We will tell you about those parts of the zoo that you should not miss, especially if you visit the zoo in winter. Of course, some of the animals are sleeping at this time, but the most interesting enclosures are open for visitors.

Aviary of polar bears. It is a small artificial rock with a pool surrounded by thick glass. In winter, they feel at home. Through the glass you can see how formidable predators are playing in the water.

African enclosure where elephants and giraffes walk. Its disadvantage is that the enclosure is huge, and if the animals are far away, it will be difficult to see them. And in winter, giraffes have a winter house, and if you climb the spiral staircase, you can look into the… eyes of a tall ungulate.

Monkey house in which gorillas live. It is beautiful at any time of the year. Great primates are so similar to people that, looking at them, you understand a lot about humanity and about yourself.

Stone wall with wild goats. These animals like to climb vertical surfaces and sometimes it is not clear how they keep there.

In addition, covered pavilions with reptiles, tropical inhabitants, big cats, small monkeys, and other amazing inhabitants of the Earth – which in natural conditions are unlikely to be seen – await you.