Top Highlights at Olomouc Zoo Svatý Kopeček

The zoo is divided into several geographic zones. Each area recreates a specific natural habitat. You can walk through forests, plains, and marine pavilions. Most paths are paved and easy to navigate. Here are the must-see spots during your visit.

• Best overall: The Observation Tower
• Best for families: The Children's Petting Zoo
• Best rainy-day: The Shark Aquarium
• Best free: Svatý Kopeček Forest Trails (nearby)

1. Name: The 32-Meter Observation Tower Type: viewpoint Why go: It offers stunning panoramic views of the Moravian countryside. Best for: Photographers and nature lovers. Where: Located near the main entrance. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Included in the standard zoo entry. Getting there: Walk up the main path from the gate. Tip: Visit on a clear day to see the Jeseníky Mountains.
2. Name: Marine Aquarium and Shark Tank Type: indoor Why go: This is the largest shark tank in the region. Best for: Rainy days and marine life fans. Where: Inside the main marine pavilion. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Included in entry. Getting there: Follow signs for the "Akvárium" near the center. Tip: Look for the blacktip reef sharks during feeding times.
3. Name: Rothschild Giraffe Pavilion Type: sight Why go: You can see these tall animals at eye level. Best for: Animal lovers and children. Where: The central African section. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Included in entry. Getting there: Walk towards the center of the zoo grounds. Tip: The indoor viewing area is perfect for colder weather.
4. Name: The Zoo Safari Express Type: experience Why go: It is a fun way to see the park without walking. Best for: Families with small children or seniors. Where: Departs from the central hub. Time: 15-20 minutes. Cost: Small additional fee (approx. 60 CZK). Getting there: Head to the train station near the giraffe enclosure. Tip: Buy your tickets at the kiosk before boarding.
5. Name: Nocturnal Bat Exhibit Type: experience Why go: Experience fruit bats flying freely in a dark cave. Best for: Brave visitors and teenagers. Where: Near the primate section. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Included in entry. Getting there: Look for the darkened pavilion entrance. Tip: Stay very quiet to see the bats move closer to you.
6. Name: Australian Kangaroo Trail Type: experience Why go: You can walk directly through the kangaroo habitat. Best for: Interactive animal encounters. Where: The south-western corner of the zoo. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Included in entry. Getting there: Follow the path past the emu enclosure. Tip: Stay on the marked path to keep the animals comfortable.
7. Name: The Domestic Animal Farm Type: family experience Why go: Kids can pet and feed friendly goats and sheep. Best for: Families with toddlers. Where: Near the main children's playground. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Included (animal feed costs extra). Getting there: Located close to the zoo exit. Tip: Bring small coins for the pellet vending machines.
8. Name: Siberian Tiger Forest Type: sight Why go: Observe one of the world's largest big cats in a forest. Best for: Wildlife enthusiasts. Where: The northern forested section of the park. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Included in entry. Getting there: Follow the outer loop trail to the north. Tip: Tigers are most active in the early morning or late afternoon.
9. Name: North American Wolf Enclosure Type: nature Why go: See a pack of wolves in a natural, hilly environment. Best for: Nature photographers. Where: The back edge of the zoo grounds. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Included in entry. Getting there: Walk past the tiger exhibit toward the hills. Tip: You can often hear them howling during the afternoon.

Planning Your Visit to the Zoo

Getting to the zoo is quite simple from the city center. You should check how to reach Olomouc Zoo by bus before you leave. Bus number 11 runs regularly from the main train station. The journey takes about 15 to 20 minutes. You will enjoy the scenic drive up the hill. Many visitors prefer this over driving because parking can be limited.

The entrance fee for Olomouc Zoo family ticket is very affordable. Prices vary slightly between the summer and winter seasons. It is best to arrive early in the morning. This helps you avoid the largest crowds on weekends. You can find more details on the Olomouc Tourism Portal. Most visitors spend at least three to four hours exploring the grounds.

Timing is key for the best experience. The best time to visit Olomouc Zoo with kids is during late spring. The weather is mild and the animals are active. Many new animal babies are born during this time. The zoo is open year-round, even on holidays. Check the official Visit Czechia - Olomouc page for current hours. Winter visits are quieter and offer a different perspective of the park.

Nearby Attractions at Svatý Kopeček

Your trip to the zoo can easily become a full day out. The area of Svatý Kopeček is rich in history. You can walk from the zoo entrance to several other sites. This makes it a very convenient destination for travelers. The hill itself is a famous landmark in the Czech Republic.

1. Name: Basilica of the Visitation of the Virgin Mary Type: day trip Why go: It is a magnificent Baroque pilgrimage site. Best for: History buffs and architecture fans. Where: A 5-minute walk from the zoo entrance. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free to enter (donations welcome). Getting there: Follow the main road away from the zoo gates. Tip: Visit the Svatý Kopeček pilgrimage site for the best views of the city.
2. Name: Holy Hill Nature Paths Type: nature Why go: Beautiful trails wind through the surrounding forests. Best for: Hikers and dog walkers. Where: Surrounding the zoo and the basilica. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Look for the marked trailheads near the parking lots. Tip: Follow the yellow markers for a scenic forest loop.