Visiting Thoiry Zoo
Editor's note, updated 08/11/2024
Located in the Yvelines department, about 25 miles west of Paris, lies the second largest wildlife park in France. With 450,000 annual visitors, it ranks among the most frequented zoological parks in the country.
The story of a castle in need of preservation
The Château de Thoiry was built in 1559 for Raoul Moreau, the king's treasurer. It was designed by Olivier Ymbert and Philibert de l'Orme, who engineered the structure so that the sun rises and sets directly through the central arches of the castle.
By 1965, the estate had fallen into disrepair. The owning family, the de la Panouse family, lacked the funds for necessary renovations. They initially opened the castle to the public for tours, but revenue proved insufficient. In 1966, they made the decision to establish a zoological park within the grounds. On May 10, 1968, they inaugurated the first zoo in France where animals roam in semi-liberty.
Safaris, walking paths, and botanical gardens
Thoiry Zoo spans 150 of the 380 hectares that make up the castle estate. You can see more than 750 animals representing 83 different species.
The park includes a safari section where animals live in semi-liberty, accessible only by car. The driving route covers 4 miles, during which you will encounter elephants, giraffes, and rhinoceroses in the African reserve. In the North American reserve, you can observe bears, wolves, and bison.
Thoiry Zoo also features a more traditional walking area and a 126-hectare botanical park. This space is organized into themed gardens such as the rose garden, autumn gardens, and a hedge maze.
The park also supports biodiversity conservation projects. Through donations, it helps fund protected areas and research missions.
A rewarding experience for discovering wildlife from around the world.
Opening hours
*Information subject to change
I have great memories of the Thoiry Zoo from when I lived in the Paris region. During the holidays, they put on a light display in the gardens with giant animal figures. It is truly magical.
As for the animals, the safari section is interesting (depending on when the animals are active) and the part with the enclosures takes up half a day. It is ideal for couples or families.