About This Experience
Ouwehands Zoo is a modern family-oriented zoo located in Rhenen, Netherlands, opened in 1932 and continuously expanding with innovative exhibits. The zoo gained international fame in 2017 when it became home to giant pandas Xing Ya (male) and Wu Wen (female) - one of only three zoos in Europe housing these rare ambassadors from China. Pandasia is a beautifully designed Chinese-themed complex replicating the pandas' native Sichuan environment with bamboo forests, rock formations, and traditional architecture. Visitors can observe these charismatic creatures through large viewing windows as they eat bamboo, climb trees, and interact. The Bear Forest (Berenbos) is an impressive European brown bear habitat featuring a large outdoor area with pools, climbing structures, and natural forest where bears demonstrate natural behaviors. The Gorilla Adventure allows visitors to walk through a unique glass tunnel running through the gorilla habitat - bringing humans and gorillas face-to-face in an unforgettable encounter. The RavotAapia indoor play jungle is one of Europe's largest indoor play areas, featuring multi-level climbing structures, slides, ball pits, and interactive elements themed as a jungle adventure - perfect for rainy days or energetic children needing to burn energy. The zoo features geographical zones: African Savanna with elephants, rhinos, and giraffes; Amazon rainforest; European wildlife; and Asian species. The Butterfly Garden houses exotic butterflies in a tropical environment. Educational presentations, feeding times, and keeper talks occur throughout the day. The zoo actively participates in conservation and breeding programs. Multiple playgrounds, picnic areas, and dining facilities serve families. The zoo's location in Rhenen, on the edge of the Utrechtse Heuvelrug National Park, combines zoo visit with beautiful natural surroundings. Operating year-round with strong indoor facilities.
