The Mayenne, Normandy, and Brittany regions of France are home to several zoos and wildlife parks that offer engaging experiences for visitors of all ages.
These parks focus on conservation, education, and providing visitors with opportunities to see a wide range of animals in environments that mimic their natural habitats.
Mayenne Region
1. Zoo de Champrépus
Zoo de Champrépus is a popular zoo located near Villedieu-les-Poêlesin, Normandy. It offers a unique and enjoyable experience for visitors of all ages, with a focus on combining animal exhibits with beautifully landscaped gardens. The zoo is well-regarded for its commitment to conservation and education, providing a family-friendly environment where visitors can learn about wildlife and enjoy close encounters with various animal species.
The zoo is divided into several themed areas, each designed to reflect the natural habitats of the animals it houses. These zones include the African savannah, the tropical forest, and the Malagasy (Madagascar) zone, among others. The thoughtful design allows visitors to feel immersed in the environment, making the experience both educational and visually appealing.
Zoo de Champrépus is home to over 60 species of animals, including big cats like lions and cheetahs, primates such as lemurs and gibbons, and a variety of birds, reptiles, and small mammals. The zoo also features a petting farm where children can interact with domesticated animals like goats, sheep, and rabbits.
2. Refuge de l'Arche, Château-Gontier
Refuge de l'Arche is a unique wildlife sanctuary that primarily cares for rescued animals. It provides a safe haven for injured or abandoned animals, including big cats, primates, birds, and reptiles. The park emphasizes animal welfare and education, making it a great place for families to learn about the importance of wildlife conservation.
Highlights: You can see a variety of species such as lions, bears, monkeys, and birds of prey. The park also offers guided tours and educational programs.
3. La Guierche Animal Park
A smaller, family-friendly park in the Mayenne region, La Guierche is home to a range of domestic and exotic animals. It offers a more intimate experience where visitors can interact with animals like goats, rabbits, and various bird species.
Highlights: The park is ideal for younger children, with plenty of opportunities for up-close encounters and feeding sessions.
Normandy Region
1. Zoo de Jurques
Zoo de Jurques, located near Caen, Normandy is one of Normandy’s most popular zoos, set in a beautiful wooded area. The zoo is home to over 700 animals from around the world, including big cats, primates, reptiles, and birds. The park is well-known for its successful breeding programs and its efforts in wildlife conservation.
Highlights: The zoo features an impressive lion enclosure, a large aviary, and a reptile house. Interactive feeding sessions and animal presentations are available throughout the day.
2. Parc Zoologique Cerza
Cerza, located near Lisieux, Normandy is a large, safari-style zoo that allows visitors to explore different zones, each replicating the natural habitats of the animals. The park houses over 1,500 animals, including rhinos, giraffes, tigers, and kangaroos. It’s known for its spacious enclosures and immersive experiences.
Highlights: The park offers a safari train, where visitors can get closer to some of the larger animals, and a 3D cinema that shows documentaries about wildlife and conservation efforts. There’s also a farm area for younger visitors to interact with domestic animals.
3. Alligator Bay
Alligator Bay, located near Mont Saint-Michel, Normandy is a unique park focusing on reptiles, particularly alligators, crocodiles, and turtles. The park also has a large collection of snakes, lizards, and tortoises. It’s an exciting destination for those interested in these often misunderstood creatures.
Highlights: The park features a glass tunnel where visitors can walk through and observe alligators swimming overhead. There’s also a large terrarium area and an outdoor section with giant tortoises.
Brittany Region
1. Zoo de la Bourbansais
Located within the grounds of Château de la Bourbansais, near Rennes, Brittany. The zoo combines history with wildlife. The park is home to over 500 animals, including endangered species like red pandas, snow leopards, and various primates. The château itself adds a unique charm to the visit.
Highlights: The zoo offers daily shows featuring birds of prey and sea lions. Visitors can also explore the château and its beautifully maintained gardens.
2. Océanopolis
Océanopolis, located near Brest, Brittany is an ocean-themed park and aquarium rather than a traditional zoo, but it offers an extensive look at marine wildlife. The park is divided into different sections representing polar, tropical, and temperate marine environments, showcasing a variety of aquatic animals.
Highlights: Visitors can see sharks, penguins, seals, and a wide range of fish species. The interactive exhibits and educational programs make it a fascinating destination for learning about marine ecosystems.
3. Zoo de Pont-Scorff
Zoo de Pont-Scorff, located near Lorient, Brittany is a well-established zoo known for its commitment to conservation and education. The zoo is home to around 600 animals from all over the world, including elephants, hippos, tigers, and a variety of primates.
Highlights: The zoo offers animal shows, such as birds of prey demonstrations, and interactive feeding sessions. The park is designed to be educational, with information about each species and their conservation status.
4. Parc de Branféré
Parc de Branféré, located near Vannes, Brittany is a unique blend of zoo, botanical garden, and a school of nature. The park emphasizes the importance of harmony between humans and animals, providing large, naturalistic enclosures for its residents. It’s home to species like giraffes, zebras, lemurs, and many bird species.
Highlights: The park features a treetop adventure course, where visitors can walk among the treetops and observe animals from above. The bird shows and interactive feeding times are also major attractions.
Visiting Tips
Check Schedules: Many of these parks offer special shows, feeding sessions, and educational talks that are scheduled throughout the day. Checking the schedule ahead of your visit can help you plan your day to catch these events.
Seasonal Opening Times: Some gardens may have seasonal hours or may be closed on certain days of the week or parts of the year. It’s a good idea to check in advance.
Interactive Experiences: Some parks offer behind-the-scenes tours or opportunities to interact with animals, which can be particularly enjoyable for children.
Picnic Areas: Many zoos and parks have designated picnic areas, so consider bringing your own lunch to enjoy a meal surrounded by nature.
Accessibility: Most of these parks are accessible to visitors with limited mobility, but it’s always a good idea to check in advance if you have specific needs.