About This Experience
Planckendael is a modern zoological park in Mechelen, Belgium, operating as the sister park to Antwerp Zoo with complementary focus on spacious habitats, breeding programs, and family experiences. Opened in its current form in 1986, the park spans 40 hectares of parkland providing expansive naturalistic environments. The park is organized into geographical zones: Afrika features lions, cheetahs, white rhinos, giraffes, zebras, and various African species in large mixed-species savannas recreating African landscapes. India showcases Asian elephants in a large outdoor habitat with pool, Indian rhinos, water buffalo, and Asian birds. Laos Sanctuary brings Southeast Asian forest to life with exotic species in lush tropical theming. The lemur island allows visitors to walk through a large enclosure where ring-tailed lemurs and other species roam freely around the walkway - an immersive encounter. The South America zone features tapirs, capybaras, marsh deer, and New World primates. The Australian area showcases kangaroos and wallabies hopping in open grassland. The Sea Lion Bay features daily educational presentations with sea lions demonstrating natural behaviors and training techniques. Indoor tropical houses maintain warm-weather species. The park excels at providing excellent animal welfare with spacious, enriching habitats allowing natural behaviors. Breeding programs contribute to European conservation efforts for endangered species. Multiple themed playgrounds cater to different age groups: Malinwa playground features large climbing structures; Hop & Hop focuses on younger children; Adventure playgrounds integrate into themed areas. Educational programs and keeper talks provide insights into conservation. Picnic areas throughout encourage families to spend full days. Restaurant and cafe facilities serve meals and snacks. The park's location in Mechelen makes it easily accessible from Brussels, Antwerp, and other Belgian cities. Operating year-round with indoor facilities for winter. The combination of spacious modern habitats, interactive experiences, excellent playgrounds, and family focus makes Planckendael ideal for families seeking a relaxed, educational day.
