Zoos In Ireland: Top Wildlife Parks For A Fun Day Out

An image of giraffes in Ireland which is home to thrilling wildlife experiences and parks.
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Ireland is not all about picturesque coastlines and ancient castles—it’s also home to thrilling wildlife experiences in its numerous zoos and parks. From open-air wildlife parks to state-of-the-art conservation centres, the zoos in Ireland have something special to offer regarding connecting with nature. In this guide, you’ll find Ireland’s most popular and significant zoos, which have impressive animal species and not-to-be-forgotten exhibits. So, if you’re looking for a nature-themed holiday, here are the top 10 zoos to visit in Ireland that you should add to your bucket list.

Top 10 Zoos In Ireland

Explore these fascinating zoos in Ireland that highlight the country’s commitment to animal welfare, education, and sustainable tourism.

1. Dublin Zoo

An image of animals and visitors at Dublin Zoo, Ireland on a bright, clear afternoon.

Photo: pelican / Wikimedia Commons

One of the most famous and oldest zoos in Ireland, Dublin Zoo was founded in 1831 and is still a family favourite. Situated in Phoenix Park, this zoo covers an area of over 28 hectares and is home to over 400 animals from across the world. My favourite sections are the African Plains, World of Primates, and Reptile House. It is a significant recognised zoo in Ireland and a major contributor to worldwide conservation and breeding programs. When looking for a lively Zoo in Ireland experience, Dublin Zoo is where fun, learning, and magnificent wildlife observation happen.

Location: Phoenix Park, Dublin
Entry Fees: €19.50 / ₹2000
Timings: 9:30 AM – 6 PM (Last entry at 5 PM)

2. Fota Wildlife Park

An image of giraffes standing near trees at Fota Wildlife Park, a world-class zoo in Ireland.

Photo: Gareth James / Wikimedia Commons

Fota Wildlife Park is a world-class zoo in Ireland. It is located on Fota Island, County Cork. This popular zoo in Ireland has become well known for its open, natural habitats where kangaroos, giraffes, and lemurs can roam freely. It has a more realistic experience than that of traditional zoos. Fota participates in endangered species breeding schemes as a leading Zoo in Ireland. Educational lectures, play areas, and scenic walking trails make it one of the finest zoos for families.

Location: Fota Island, Carrigtwohill, Co. Cork
Entry Fees: €18.90 / ₹1800
Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM

3. Belfast Zoo

An image of the entrance and signage of Belfast Zoo, surrounded by greenery and hills.

Photo: Venkat Ragavan / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Belfast Zoo, situated on Cave Hill merges breathtaking scenery with wildlife conservation. It is home to over 120 red pandas, gorillas, and lion species. It is a renowned Zoo in Ireland for nature lovers and animal enthusiasts alike. The zoo also serves as a significant Zoo in Ireland in conserving endangered animals through several conservation initiatives. The high ground provides Belfast city’s panoramic scenery, so the experience is all the more satisfying.

Location: Antrim Road, Belfast
Entry Fees: €14.50 / ₹1500
Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM

4. Secret Valley Wildlife Park

An image of a waterbuck standing calmly in Kidepo Valley National Park, Uganda.

Photo: Alvinategyeka / Wikimedia Commons

Secret Valley Wildlife Park in Wexford is a lesser-known gem among the zoos in Ireland, and it is perfect for hands-on animal experiences. It’s famous among families with young kids, offering petting areas with rabbits, goats, and alpacas. Having over 40 species and animal experiences daily, it’s a vital zoo for early education about wildlife. Even though compact, it’s one of the friendlier and intimate zoos to visit in Ireland. This famous zoo in Ireland is perfect for a quiet yet fulfilling day of wildlife adventure amid countryside settings.

Location: Clonroche, County Wexford
Entry Fees: €11 / ₹1100
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM

5. Wild Ireland Animal Sanctuary

An image of The Secret World Animal Sanctuary, a one of the popular zoos in Ireland.

Photo: Freek Wolsink / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Wild Ireland Animal Sanctuary is an unusual Zoo in Ireland where ancient native animals such as wolves, lynx, and brown bears have made a comeback. Located in a Donegal forest, it’s a renowned zoo in Ireland that specialises in animals previously native to Ireland. Footpaths take you through naturalistic habitats that resemble the wild. As one of Ireland’s newest zoos, it is rapidly gaining popularity. Tourists in search of a conservation-oriented famous zoo experience will be impressed by Wild Ireland.

Location: Burnfoot, County Donegal
Entry Fees: €15 / ₹1500
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM

6. National Reptile Zoo

An image of National Reptile Zoo, a popular spot to explore one of the zoos in Ireland.

Photo: thota naren / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

For reptile enthusiasts, the National Reptile Zoo is an absolute must-visit in Ireland, with Ireland’s only special reptile building. This iconic zoo in has over 100 reptiles, such as snakes, geckos, and tortoises. It fosters awareness and appreciation of cold-blooded animals. Educational presentations and handling sessions are offered, so it is an one of the interactive zoos for curious minds.

Location: Gowran, County Kilkenny
Entry Fees: €10 / ₹1000
Timings: 10 AM – 5:30 PM

7. Tropical World

An image of Tropical World showcasing a piranha tank at one of the zoos in Ireland.

Photo: TheArmchairSoldier / Wikimedia Commons

Tropical World in Letterkenny adds exotic colour to the Zoo in Ireland experience with butterfly houses, tropical birds, and reptiles. It’s a popular zoo in Ireland for its year-round indoor exhibits, which are ideal for rainy days. It has more than 100 species and encourages biodiversity. Families and school tours love this compact yet immersive zoo in Ireland.

Location: Alcorn’s Flower and Garden Centre, Letterkenny
Entry Fees: €11 / ₹1100
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM

8. Tayto Park Zoo (Emerald Park)

An image of a group of Zebras at Tayto Park Zoo, Meath offering thrilling rides in Ireland.

Photo: minka2507 / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only

Emerald Park (formerly Tayto Park) offers a double treat—thrilling rides and a Zoo in Ireland featuring Amur tigers, lemurs, and more. This zoo in Ireland is a family hit, combining a safari experience with amusement fun. As a significant Zoo in Ireland, it promotes animal education and conservation. Whether you enjoy roller coasters or animals, this Zoo in Ireland has both. One of Ireland’s most popular and famous zoo attractions, it’s ideal for full-day visits.

Location: Ashbourne, County Meath
Entry Fees: €39 / ₹4000
Timings: 9:30 AM – 6 PM

9. Wild Encounters Mini Zoo

An image of animal interaction areas at Wild Encounters Mini Zoo, family-owned Zoo in Ireland.

Photo: ambquinn / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only

Wild Encounters Mini Zoo is a family-owned Zoo in Ireland that focuses on interaction and education. Children can feed goats, handle reptiles, and intimately learn about wildlife. Being a significant zoo in Ireland, it encourages education through intimate encounters. It’s unique among other zoos in Ireland because of its friendly and warm environment. This is the one if you are looking for an offbeat, popular zoo in Ireland for kids.

Location: Kilcornan, County Limerick
Entry Fees: €8 / 800
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM

10. Clonfert Pet Farm

Clonfert Pet Farm is a petting zoo beyond comparison—it's a family-friendly zoo.

Photo: balouriarajesh / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only

Clonfert Pet Farm is a petting zoo beyond comparison—it’s a family-friendly zoo in Ireland that offers domestic and exotic pets. A popular zoo for school field trips and family outings, it contains wallabies, parrots, and camels. Being a significant zoo in Ireland, Clonfert also has a playground, go-karts, and picnic areas and is perfect for birthday parties and weekend breaks.

Location: Maynooth, County Kildare
Entry Fees: €8 / ₹800
Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM

From city wildlife centres to family farms, the landscape of the Zoo in Ireland is alive and varied. Whether looking for exciting wildlife experiences, scenic landscapes, or learning fun, this renowned Zoo in Ireland offers unforgettable experiences. As significant zoos complexes, they are crucial in conservation, education, and eco-tourism. If you’re organising a nature-based itinerary, include these top 10 zoos in Ireland renowned for their beauty and dedication to animal welfare.

Cover Photo: Rachel Claire / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Frequently Asked Questions

The best time to visit a Zoo in Ireland is during late spring and summer (May to August), when the weather is milder, and animals are more active outdoors. Many of the famous Zoo in Ireland offer seasonal events during this time too.
Yes, most zoos in Ireland including Dublin Zoo, Fota Wildlife Park, and National Reptile Zoo are open year-round, though hours may be reduced in winter. Always check official websites before visiting any important Zoo in Ireland.
Secret Valley Wildlife Park, Wild Encounters Mini Zoo, and Clonfert Pet Farm are considered the best famous zoos in Ireland for young children due to their interactive and safe environments.
Yes, several zoos in Ireland like Secret Valley Wildlife Park and National Reptile Zoo offer animal handling, feeding, and educational encounters. These activities help kids learn in a hands-on way at these important zoos in Ireland.
Absolutely. Dublin Zoo, Fota Wildlife Park, and Wild Ireland are important zoos in Ireland that focus heavily on conservation and rewilding efforts, working with global programs to protect endangered species.

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