Tierpark Hellabrunn (Munich Zoo)
Address
Tierparkstraße 30, 81543 München, Germany
Country
germany
Website
https://www.hellabrunn.deOpening Hours
Daily 9:00-18:00 (April-October), 9:00-17:00 (November-March). Open 365 days a year.
Popularity
Very High (2.2+ million visitors annually - Bavaria's premier zoo)
World's First Geo-Zoo in Natural Paradise
Revolutionary Zoo Concept Since 1911 Tierpark Hellabrunn, founded in 1911, holds the distinction of being the world's first geo-zoo, where animals are organized by geographical regions rather than species families. This innovative approach creates a unique "journey around the world" experience on 40 hectares of pristine Isar floodplain landscape.
Natural Conservation Area Setting Located in Munich's Isar River conservation area, the zoo combines wildlife conservation with environmental protection. The natural landscape provides authentic habitats where animals live in continental communities, surrounded by mature trees and meandering waterways that flow directly from the Isar River.
Geographic Journey Experience Visitors embark on a continental expedition, discovering animal communities from Arctic tundra to African savannas, Asian highlands to Australian outback, European forests to American prairies. This geo-zoo concept allows animals from the same geographic regions to live together naturally.
Conservation Leadership Excellence As a member of EAZA and WAZA, Hellabrunn leads European conservation efforts through breeding programs, research initiatives, and field conservation projects. The zoo's commitment to species preservation and habitat protection extends globally through numerous international partnerships.
Bavarian Cultural Integration The recent addition of Mühlendorf (Mill Village) showcases traditional Bavarian farm life with native species, connecting visitors to local heritage while promoting regional biodiversity conservation.
Unique Features
- World's First Geo-Zoo - Animals organized by continental geography since 1928
- Natural Isar Setting - 40 hectares of protected floodplain landscape
- Historic Elephant House - Landmark 1914 architecture completely renovated
- Continental Journey - Experience 15 geographic regions in one visit
- Mill Village - Traditional Bavarian farmhouse with native species education
Attractions in Tierpark Hellabrunn (Munich Zoo)
Historic Elephant House
Architectural Heritage Meets Modern Care
Historic Landmark Reimagined The iconic Elephant House, constructed in 1914 as Hellabrunn's architectural landmark, underwent complete renovation from 2011-2016, combining historic preservation with state-of-the-art elephant care facilities.
Facility Features:
- Historic architecture preserved - Original 1914 design elements maintained
- Modern elephant care - Contemporary facilities meeting highest welfare standards
- Indoor/outdoor integration - Seamless access between climate-controlled and natural areas
- Educational viewing areas - Multiple observation points with interpretive displays
- Research capabilities - Advanced facilities for elephant behavior and health studies
Conservation Impact: The facility contributes to Asian elephant conservation through breeding programs and research while educating visitors about threats facing wild elephant populations.
Architectural Significance: Represents successful integration of historical preservation with modern animal welfare standards.