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Zoo Dvůr Králové
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Animal habitat
Zoo Dvůr Králové, now professionally known as Safari Park, is one of Europe's most significant zoological gardens, primarily focusing on African wildlife. Established in 1946, it rose to global prominence in the 1970s under director Josef Vágner, who imported hundreds of animals directly from African expeditions. The park's centerpiece is the African Safari, where visitors can drive their own vehicles or take specialized safari buses through expansive enclosures filled with zebras, antelopes, and birds roaming freely. It has one of the world's largest captive giraffe herds and is a world leader in rhinoceros breeding, particularly the critically endangered northern white rhino. The park features diverse thematic sections, such as the African village, tropical bird houses, and predator enclosures. Safari Park Dvůr Králové is deeply involved in global conservation efforts, having successfully reintroduced animals back into African national parks. With on-site accommodation options like a safari camp and hotel, it features an immersive experience that blends a traditional zoo visit with an authentic safari expedition.
- Location: Czech Republic
- Top sights: ZOO Dvůr Králové · Josef Vágner · Svatý Jan Nepomucký
- Nearby: Jaroměř (12 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -4 | -2 | 1 | 7 | 12 | 16 | 18 | 18 | 13 | 7 | 3 | -2 |
| Rain mm | 56 | 46 | 51 | 43 | 78 | 85 | 92 | 83 | 67 | 56 | 52 | 54 |
📋 Practical info
Best season
Zoo Dvůr Králové provides visits all year round, but the best time is spring when many African animals give birth. Autumn is also favourable with less rain and pleasant temperatures.
Best time of day
Feeding times in the morning are particularly impressive as the animals are active. Also plan for late afternoon when animals become livelier again before evening rest.
Etiquette
Stay in your vehicle during the safari drive to ensure your safety and that of the animals. Feeding or luring the animals is strictly prohibited as it disrupts natural behaviours.
What to bring
Binoculars are highly recommended for the safari drive to better spot animals in the distance. A camera with a telephoto lens is convenient for photographing the African animals from a safe distance.
Getting there
Zoo Dvůr Králové is located in the town of the same name in Eastern Bohemia and is accessible by car via road I/37. There is a large parking lot for visitors right at the zoo entrance.
What to expect
During the safari drive, animals may be far away or hidden in bushes - patience and slow driving increase sightings. Take your time at each stop and carefully scan the surroundings.
Geography
Facts
- Josef Vágner imported over 800 African animals during the 1970s expeditions.
- The park houses the largest herd of giraffes found outside of Africa.
- It is a global leader in the breeding of endangered black and white rhinoceroses.
- The car safari route spans a total length of approximately 6 kilometers.
- Several rhinos from this zoo have been successfully reintroduced to Tanzania.
- The total area of the Safari Park covers approximately 72 hectares.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Zoo Dvůr Králové (10)
Hankův dům
Theatre building in Dvůr Králové.
památník odboje
Resistance memorial.
Church of St. John the Baptist
Church in Trutnov District, Hradec Králové Region.
Mariánský sloup
Marian column on the town square.
kostel Povýšení Sv. Kříže
Church in Trutnov District, Hradec Králové Region.
Městské muzeum - Špýchar🏛 museum
Town museum in a historic granary.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What makes this zoo special?
The African safari concept with free-roaming animals.
Can you drive your own car?
Yes, it is possible in the safari part for an extra fee.
Are there rhinoceroses there?
Yes, the zoo is world-famous for rhinoceros breeding.
Can you stay overnight?
Yes, there is a safari hotel and a camp available.
When is the safari open?
Usually from May to September, depending on the weather.
Zoo Dvůr Králové: where is it located?
Zoo Dvůr Králové is located in Czech Republic.
Zoo Dvůr Králové: what is there to see?
Highlights include ZOO Dvůr Králové, Josef Vágner, Svatý Jan Nepomucký.
Zoo Dvůr Králové: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Zoo Dvůr Králové: why is it worth visiting?
Zoo Dvůr Králové, now professionally known as Safari Park, is one of Europe's most significant zoological gardens, primarily focusing on African wildlife.
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