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DierenPark Amersfoort
Address
Barchman Wuytierslaan 224, 3819 AC Amersfoort, Netherlands
Country
netherlands
Opening Hours
Open 365 days per year. March-October: 9:00-18:00, November-February: 9:00-17:00. Check website for current times
Popularity
High (700,000+ visitors annually - popular family destination)
Adventure-Focused Family Zoo Experience
Innovative Adventure Zoo Design DierenPark Amersfoort revolutionizes the traditional zoo experience by combining wildlife encounters with adventurous exploration opportunities. Founded in 1948, this 20-hectare zoo has evolved into a unique destination where visitors don't just observe animals but actively explore their habitats through rope bridges, underground tunnels, slides, and boat rides. Located on the edge of the Birkhoven forest in Utrecht province, the park offers an immersive adventure that appeals to families seeking both education and excitement.
Adventure-Based Animal Encounters
- 150+ animal species across seven themed adventure zones
- Interactive pathways including rope bridges over animal enclosures
- Adventure elements like slides, boat rides, and underground tunnels
- Themed exploration zones each offering unique discovery experiences
- Family-focused design with adventures suitable for all ages
Seven Themed Adventure Worlds Each zone offers a distinct ecosystem experience combined with adventurous exploration methods, allowing visitors to encounter animals from unique perspectives while learning about conservation and animal behavior.
Historic Evolution & Innovation
Humble Beginnings (1948)
- Started by Mr. Tertoolen and Mr. Knoester with just a monkey, bear, camel, and farm animals
- First elephants Indra and Rani arrived in 1956
- Chimpanzees introduced in 1960 under new management
Modern Development
- Savanna area and 'De Ark van Amersfoort' opened in 1988
- Continuous expansion with new themed areas
- Recent addition of Chimpanzee Valley in 2024
- Dinopark featuring 70 prehistoric creature recreations
Unique Adventure Features
Interactive Animal Viewing
- Rope bridges spanning over bear enclosures
- Underground viewing tunnels with prairie dogs
- Boat rides among ring-tailed lemurs and giraffes
- Slides connecting different zones and viewing areas
Attractions in DierenPark Amersfoort
Chimpanzee Valley
Climb with the Chimpanzees
Brand New Adventure Experience The newest addition to DierenPark Amersfoort, where visitors can climb among the trees alongside chimpanzees in an innovative multi-level habitat experience.
Adventure Features:
- Tree-climbing experiences - Elevated pathways through chimpanzee habitat
- Multi-level viewing - Various heights and perspectives
- Interactive elements - Learn about chimpanzee behavior through exploration
- Natural forest setting - Authentic woodland environment
- Educational programming - Discover chimpanzee intelligence and conservation
Chimpanzee Encounters:
- Close observations - Watch natural behaviors from unique vantage points
- Social dynamics - Observe family interactions and communication
- Enrichment activities - See how chimpanzees solve problems and use tools
- Conservation education - Learn about threats to wild chimpanzees