Best Zoos in the World

a group of children feeding a giraffe at the zoo
kali9 from Getty Images Signature

Animal lovers around the world make zoos a must-see stop when traveling. Some of our favorite cities around the globe host spectacular animal habitats, breeding, and conservation programs. They also provide educational opportunities at their exciting zoo facilities. If you want to learn about unique, endangered, and gorgeous animals as you travel the globe, visiting one of the world’s best zoos should be on your bucket list. 

Alaska Zoo in Anchorage

Majestic white wolf in the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center.
Photo by John Thomas on Unsplash

If you want to learn about unique, endangered, and gorgeous animals as you travel the globe, visiting one of the world’s best zoos is a must. Having this experience should be on your bucket list. Additionally, cold weather-loving species like snow leopards, muskox, caribou, and majestic white mountain goats are all part of the exhibitions here.

Basel Zoo in Switzerland

Two cute small capuchin monkeys are busy picking fresh fruits and vegetables from a cage
Photo by Andreas on Adobe Stock

Dubbed “Zolli” by locals, this urban zoo is home to a renowned breeding and conservation program. It helps preserve endangered animals at zoos worldwide. Animal houses and enclosures at Zolli include the gray savannah elephant and African lions. They also feature the fearsome rhinoceros and various fish, amphibians, and reptiles at the Vivarium.

Beijing Zoo in China

Panda Bears in Beijing China
Photo by Rafael Ben-Ari on Adobe Stock

Visitors flock to China’s oldest and largest zoo to get a peek at the Beijing Zoo’s rare giant pandas. They make the zoo’s 2.5-acre Panda Hall their home. Other native species to check out at this zoo are the Sichuan golden-haired monkeys and the red pandas. Historic buildings on the zoo’s grounds are also worth checking out.

Berlin Zoological Garden in Germany

berlin zoo entrance gate germany
Photo by snaptitude on Adobe Stock

With over 20,000 animals to see there, the Berlin Zoo is a fantastic European zoo that prioritizes conservation and education. A visit to the historical center of the zoo gives a hint at what Germany’s oldest zoo looked like over 100 years ago, adding to the charm of this classic zoo that provides visitors with a chance to see exciting animals like penguins and hippos or pet an African Pygmy Goat in the interactive areas.