Visiting Thoiry Zoo
Located in the Yvelines department, about 40 km west of Paris, you will find the second largest wildlife park in France. With 450,000 annual visitors, it ranks among the most visited zoological parks in the country.
History of a Château Seeking Preservation
The Château de Thoiry was built in 1559 for Raoul Moreau, the royal treasurer. Designed by Olivier Ymbert and Philibert de l’Orme, the structure was engineered so that the sun always rises and sets directly through its central arches.
By 1965, the château was in poor condition, and the owning de la Panouse family lacked the funds for its renovation. They initially decided to open the château for tours, but ticket sales proved insufficient. In 1966, they pivoted by opening a zoological park in the grounds. On May 10, 1968, they inaugurated the first zoo in France where animals roam in semi-liberty.
Safaris, Walking Areas, and Botanical Gardens
Thoiry Zoo spans 150 of the 380 hectares comprising the château estate. Visitors can observe more than 750 animals representing 83 different species.
The park features a safari section where animals roam in semi-liberty, accessible exclusively by car. The route is 6.5 km long, taking you past elephants, giraffes, and rhinoceroses in the African reserve. Afterward, the North American reserve lets you view bears, wolves, and bison.
Thoiry Zoo also includes a more traditional walking section and a 126-hectare botanical park. This area contains numerous themed gardens, including the rose garden, autumn gardens, and a hedge maze.
The park also supports biodiversity conservation projects, funding protected areas and field study missions through donations.
A remarkable excursion into the world of wildlife.
Opening hours
Zoo and gardens: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Safari: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
High season (April to September):
Zoo and gardens: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Safari: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
*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.