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Ouwehands Dierenpark Rhenen
Address
Grebbeweg 111, 3911 AV Rhenen, Netherlands
Country
netherlands
Website
https://www.ouwehand.nlOpening Hours
Variable hours depending on season. Typically 10:00-17:00 winter, 10:00-18:00 summer. Check website for current hours
Popularity
Very High (1+ million visitors annually - famous for giant pandas)
Home of the Netherlands' Only Giant Pandas
Historic Zoo with Modern Conservation Mission Founded in 1932 by Cor Ouwehand, who transformed his chicken farm into a zoo during the Great Depression, Ouwehands Dierenpark has evolved into one of the Netherlands' premier zoological institutions. Located on the scenic Grebbeberg hills in Rhenen, the zoo spans 22 hectares and has gained international recognition as the only zoo in the Netherlands housing giant pandas.
From Farm to International Zoo
- Historic origins - Started as chicken farm in 1919, became zoo in 1932
- Royal recognition - Giant panda partnership established through Dutch-Chinese state visit
- Modern investments - Completely renovated and expanded under current ownership since 2000
- Conservation focus - Active participation in breeding programs and wildlife protection
- Family destination - Combining education, conservation, and entertainment
Unique Giant Panda Experience Ouwehands made international headlines in 2017 when giant pandas Xing Ya and Wu Wen arrived from China, followed by the birth of baby panda Fan Xing in 2020. The spectacular Pandasia complex represents one of Europe's most authentic Chinese-themed zoo areas.
Innovative Animal Experiences
Pandasia (2017)
- Authentic Chinese architecture and landscaping
- State-of-the-art panda facilities with climate control
- Restaurant serving Chinese cuisine
- Cultural immersion in Chinese panda conservation
Bear Forest Expedition
- 2-hectare natural forest environment
- Brown bears rescued from poor conditions
- Cohabitation with wolves in natural setting
- Observation post and village-themed experience
Gorilla Adventure
- Underground mineshaft-themed experience
- Gorillas living at 10-meter height
- 11-meter gap between visitors and animals
- Dramatic and immersive viewing experience
Conservation Leadership Ouwehands participates in international breeding programs and focuses on rescuing animals from poor conditions, particularly through the Bear Forest project where formerly mistreated bears now live in spacious, natural environments.
Attractions in Ouwehands Dierenpark Rhenen
Pandasia
Netherlands' Only Giant Pandas
Authentic Chinese Experience Pandasia represents a groundbreaking partnership between the Netherlands and China, featuring the country's only giant pandas in an authentically designed Chinese complex.
Panda Family:
- Wu Wen (female) - Mother panda known for her playful nature
- Xing Ya (male) - Father panda with distinctive markings
- Fan Xing (cub) - Born May 1, 2020, first panda born in Netherlands
Facility Features:
- Authentic Chinese architecture - Traditional design elements throughout
- Climate-controlled habitats - Optimal conditions for panda comfort
- Multiple viewing areas - Indoor and outdoor observation points
- Educational displays - Learn about panda conservation in China
- Chinese restaurant - Authentic cuisine themed around panda experience
Conservation Significance: Represents international cooperation in giant panda conservation, with Ouwehands contributing to global breeding programs for this endangered species.