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ARTIS Royal Zoo

38-40 Plantage Kerklaan, Amsterdam, Noord-Holland

Description

Artis Royal Zoo (the formal name is "Natura Artis Magistra") is the oldest zoo in the Netherland's; it was founded in 1838. It is located in the centre of Amsterdam and, besides the land animal enclosures, it also contains an aquarium, an arboretum, and a planetarium. There are over 900 animal species represented and 250 varieties of trees. Highlights include the gorilla house, the big cats' enclosures, the savannah (incl. giraffes), various sculptures, and the Aquarium opened since 1882. Trivia: the name "Artis" stuck as it was the inscription above the central gate (the other one having the words "Natura" and "Magistra") which was the one most used by visitors.

Access & Transport

The zoo is located in the Plantage neighbourhood, at Plantage Kerklaan 38-40, 1018 CZ Amsterdam The closest tram stop is Artis (9, 14) and Wateerlooplein metro station (51, 53, 54 and trams 9, 14) Paid parking is available at Plantage Kerklaan 40 and costs €12.50

Instructions & Recommendations

Geographically, this activity can easily be combined with the Hortus Botanicus (Botanic Gardens).

Meta review

Zoos generally draw mixed reviews and Artis is no exception - very conflicting ones even and many negative reviews have an obvious agenda. Trying to summarize this: the park is well laid out with a very green environment and many of the sanctuaries are superb, but several should be significantly more spacious. Also, the entrance price is on the expensive side considering the size of the park (this is a recurring but not a general comment) and food prices are expensive.

Environmental & Social

The zoo is involved in endangered species breeding programs and supports several conservation projects: https://www.artis.nl/en/discover/nature-conservation/ Its primary mission is to educate about nature and animals.

Conclusion

The zoo is one of the best non-cultural / historical attractions in the city and makes for an excellent family half-day excursion. The range of species is good but not top tier by international standards, and the conservation efforts are commandable even though keeping animals in enclosures is an ethical issue for many.

Key positive

Great for families

Green and well laid out

Involved in educational and conservation efforts

Key negative

Some of the animal enclosures are too small

Suitability

Suitable for all ages. Accessible for visitors with reduced mobility.

About this Rating

TYPE

Desktop

RESEARCHED IN

June 2024

PROVIDER

Koreval

Included Items
None
Timing
Duration of visit

av. transport time:0h 25m

est. visit time:2h 30m

Regulated hours

Start of Season 1:Mar, 01

Season 1

MONDAY09:00 - 18:00

TUESDAY09:00 - 18:00

WEDNESDAY09:00 - 18:00

THURSDAY09:00 - 18:00

FRIDAY09:00 - 18:00

SATURDAY09:00 - 18:00

SUNDAY09:00 - 18:00

Start of Season 2:Nov, 01

Season 2

MONDAY09:00 - 17:00

TUESDAY09:00 - 17:00

WEDNESDAY09:00 - 17:00

THURSDAY09:00 - 17:00

FRIDAY09:00 - 17:00

SATURDAY09:00 - 17:00

SUNDAY09:00 - 17:00

Pricing
Age band
Age band
Regular price / pers.
Senior
65 - 99
€26.5
Adult
13 - 64
€26.5
Child
3 - 12
€22.5
Infant
0 - 2
€0
These are the online prices. For students it is € 13.25

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