Artis Zoo

Description:

• Established in 1838, this is the oldest zoo in the Netherlands and houses more than 6,000 animals from 1,400 species in excellent conditions, not normally associated with a city zoo. The zoo is themed into continents and combines native plants and animals. There's also an excellent Planetarium and a Geological and Zoological Museum. The Aquarium, built in 1882 and renovated in the late 1990s, is superbly presented, particularly the sections about the Amazon River, coral reefs, and Amsterdam's own canals. Finally, there's a children's farm, where kids can help tend to the needs of resident Dutch species, including moorland sheep, long-haired Veluwe goats, and tufted ducks. Enhancements proceed apace: An Insectarium opened in 2005 and a Butterfly Garden in 2006. In 2011 a further expansion and upgrade of the zoo is taking place. Outside of the zoo entrance are a number of excellent cafes and restaurants which cater for the locals just as much as visitors.
  

• © NileGuide2012

Awards:

Frommer's

•  Highly Recommended 2009
•  Highly Recommended 2010