Is advance booking necessary for Zoo de Cerza?

It is not necessary to book your visit to Zoo de Cerza in advance. Tickets can be purchased directly at the park entrance on the day of your visit, or online if preferred. Purchased tickets are typically valid for one year.

What are the accessible features at Zoo de Cerza?

Zoo de Cerza offers several accessible features, including the entire Red Circuit, the Safari Train, and the 3D cinema, which are suitable for visitors with reduced mobility. Wheelchairs can be rented on-site, and dedicated parking is available. However, the Yellow Circuit is not recommended for wheelchair users due to its terrain. Guide dogs are not allowed.

How long does it take to visit Zoo de Cerza?

To fully enjoy all that Zoo de Cerza has to offer, including both pedestrian circuits, the safari train, 3D cinema, and various animal activities, visitors should plan to spend a full day at the park.

ZooNormandy, FR

Zoo de Cerza

Zoo de Cerza, nestled in the heart of the picturesque Normandy countryside, offers an extraordinary journey into the wild, spanning approximately 80 hectares of natural landscape.

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About

Zoo de Cerza, nestled in the heart of the picturesque Normandy countryside, offers an extraordinary journey into the wild, spanning approximately 80 hectares of natural landscape. This expansive zoological park is home to over 1,500 animals representing more than 120 species from across five continents, thriving in spacious, semi-natural habitats designed to mimic their native environments. Far from a traditional zoo, Cerza provides an immersive experience where visitors can observe majestic creatures like African lions, towering giraffes, and rare white tigers roaming freely within their enclosures, making every visit a captivating exploration of global biodiversity.

The park is thoughtfully designed with two distinct walking circuits and an engaging safari train ride, ensuring diverse perspectives on its incredible inhabitants. The "Heart of Africa" (Red Circuit) brings you face-to-face with iconic African species such as white rhinoceroses, ostriches, and cheetahs, while the "Wild Valley" (Yellow Circuit) transports you to other corners of the globe to discover spectacled bears, Alaskan wolves, red pandas, and the vibrant residents of the Macaw Aviary. Interactive feeding sessions with giraffes, lemurs, and even spectacled bears offer unforgettable close encounters, highlighting the park's commitment to both animal welfare and visitor engagement.

More than just an attraction, Zoo de Cerza is deeply committed to conservation, actively participating in breeding programs for endangered species and educating the public on wildlife protection. Its dedication to creating authentic habitats and fostering natural behaviors makes it a truly special place. Whether you're embarking on a mini-safari by train, enjoying a 3D cinema experience, or simply marveling at the diverse animal collection, Cerza promises a full day of discovery, education, and memorable moments for visitors of all ages, allowing you to connect with the wild world right in the heart of Normandy. Eager to name that creature? Identify any animal you find during your visit using the Snappit app.

Zoo de Cerza operates with a strong foundation in animal protection, reproduction, and the rearing of endangered species. While specific founding dates are not widely detailed, the park has been recognized for developing innovative breeding methods for over two decades, aiming to place animals in environments that closely resemble their natural habitats. Its dedicated conservation arm, Cerza Conservation, established in 2000, actively supports numerous global projects focused on protecting threatened wildlife, preserving habitats, and educating local communities, with over €615,000 contributed to conservation efforts worldwide.

What to do here

Walk the designated trails to observe animals in their expansive enclosures, take the 25-minute safari train ride, watch the educational 3D film, and check the daily schedule for interactive animal feeding experiences, particularly with giraffes, lemurs, and spectacled bears. You can also explore the Indonesian village area and the tropical reserve.

Seasonal info

Opening hours vary throughout the year; consult the official website for specific times. The park is well-wooded, providing shaded areas even on warmer days. Special events like Easter egg hunts and Halloween celebrations may occur seasonally.

Accessibility

The Red Circuit, Safari Train, and 3D cinema are accessible for visitors with reduced mobility. The park offers wheelchairs for rent (max 130kg) and strollers. However, the Yellow Circuit is not recommended due to its topography. Dedicated parking spaces are available, but guide dogs are not permitted due to the presence of wild animals.

Don't miss

Don't miss the African Red Circuit for giraffes and rhinoceroses, the Yellow Circuit for white tigers and spectacled bears, the immersive Macaw Aviary, and the engaging mini-farm. The safari train offers a unique perspective on the larger plains.

Wildlife you might spot

Each card links to a full Explore page with photos, traits, and fun facts.

African Lion

Domestic Chicken

Pig

Goat

Giraffes

Zebra

Polar Bear

Indian Rhinoceros

Snap map for this place

Start with the big picture, then zoom in to explore individual wildlife observations around this place.

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Good to know before you go

Arrive early

To maximize your visit and see animals at their most active, especially in warmer months, consider arriving close to opening time.

Check daily schedules

Upon arrival, consult the information board or park map for the day's schedule of animal feeding times and other educational activities like the safari train departures.

Wear comfortable shoes

With two extensive walking circuits, you'll be covering a lot of ground, so comfortable footwear is essential.

Bring binoculars

For closer observation of animals in their large enclosures, binoculars can enhance your viewing experience. They are also available for rent.

Pack a picnic or plan for dining

The park offers several dining options, including snack bars, a self-service restaurant, and a brasserie, as well as shaded picnic areas if you prefer to bring your own food.

Consider the Safari Train

Even if you plan to walk the circuits, the Safari Train offers a relaxing, 25-minute overview of the park and different perspectives on some animals, particularly those in the African and American plains.

Frequently asked questions

: It is not necessary to book your visit to Zoo de Cerza in advance. Tickets can be purchased directly at the park entrance on the day of your visit, or online if preferred. Purchased tickets are typically valid for one year.
: Zoo de Cerza offers several accessible features, including the entire Red Circuit, the Safari Train, and the 3D cinema, which are suitable for visitors with reduced mobility. Wheelchairs can be rented on-site, and dedicated parking is available. However, the Yellow Circuit is not recommended for wheelchair users due to its terrain. Guide dogs are not allowed.
: To fully enjoy all that Zoo de Cerza has to offer, including both pedestrian circuits, the safari train, 3D cinema, and various animal activities, visitors should plan to spend a full day at the park.