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Opel-Zoo Kronberg

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Animal habitat

Weather…

The Opel Zoo is situated on the slopes of the Taunus mountains between Kronberg and Königstein and was founded in 1956 by Georg von Opel. Spanning approximately 27 hectares, the zoo is home to about 1,600 animals from over 200 species, with a particular focus on hoofed animals and elephants. The facility is especially well-known for its African elephants, which live in a modern enclosure and are the only ones of their kind in the state of Hesse. The zoo follows an educational approach, providing numerous information boards and a petting zoo to introduce visitors to biology and the protection of endangered species. Due to its location in a diverse low mountain landscape, the site features natural elevation changes and wide views over the Rhine-Main plain. In addition to animal care, the Opel Zoo is involved in international breeding programs and research. Funding is primarily generated through entrance fees and donations to a non-profit foundation.

Location: Hesse, Germany
Top sights: Common eland · Apiary · Ostrich
Nearby: Schwalbach am Taunus (4 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	0	1	5	10	14	19	21	20	16	10	5	1
Rain mm	57	46	47	41	71	59	66	65	46	54	56	64

📋 Practical info

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Best season

Opel Zoo is open year-round, but the best time is spring and early summer (May-June), when young animals are born and vegetation is lush. Autumn also provides mild temperatures and fewer visitors.

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Best time of day

In the morning between 9 and 11 AM, animals are especially active after feeding - handy for observation. Late afternoon, elephants are often fed in the outdoor enclosure, providing a special sight.

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Etiquette

Please keep distance from enclosures and do not touch the animals - this applies especially to elephants and hippos. Smoking and loud music are prohibited throughout the zoo to avoid disturbing the animals.

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What to bring

As the zoo is located on the slope of the Taunus mountains, sturdy hiking boots or good tread footwear are recommended. Binoculars help to better view animals in the spacious enclosures, especially birds of prey.

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Getting there

Opel Zoo is located in Kronberg im Taunus, about 15 km northwest of Frankfurt. By car, take the A66 and B455 - ample parking is available. Public transport: S-Bahn to Kronberg and then bus 260.

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What to expect

Some animals, especially big cats, rest a lot during the day - wait patiently, they often become active around feeding time. Plan at least 3-4 hours to explore the entire zoo at a relaxed pace.

Geography

Coordinates

50.18700, 8.49400

Facts

Area of approx. 27 hectares on the southern slope of the Taunus
Founded in 1956 by automotive heir Georg von Opel
Home to roughly 1,600 animals from more than 200 species
Houses the only African elephants in the state of Hesse
Financed without public subsidies through a non-profit foundation
Welcomes approximately 600,000 visitors every year

Explore nearby

Notable places around

📍Kronberg im Taunus1 km · SEExplore →

📍Königstein im Taunus2 km · WExplore →

📍Schwalbach am Taunus4 km · SEExplore →

Großer Feldberg5 km · NWExplore →

📍Bad Soden am Taunus5 km · SExplore →

📍Steinbach (Taunus)6 km · EExplore →

📍Kelkheim6 km · SWExplore →

📍Eschborn7 km · SEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Opel-Zoo Kronberg (10)

Common eland

Enclosure for common eland antelopes at Opel Zoo.

Apiary

Beehouse at Opel Zoo, showcasing honeybees and their hive.

Ostrich

Ostrich enclosure at Opel Zoo.

Panoramablick

Viewpoint offering a panorama of Opel Zoo and the surrounding area.

Malerblick

Viewpoint with a scenic outlook over the landscape.

Opel-Zoo

Zoo in Hesse, Germany, featuring animals from around the world.

Hirschblick

Viewpoint overlooking the deer enclosure.

Mittelburg🏰 castle

Castle in Hesse, part of the Kronberg castle complex.

Oberburg🏰 castle

Castle ruins in Hesse, located above Kronberg.

Burg Kronberg🏛 museum

Castle in Hesse, now used as a museum and event venue.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What large animals are at the Opel-Zoo?

The Opel-Zoo is famous for its elephants and giraffes.

Is barbecuing allowed in Opel-Zoo?

Yes, you can reserve barbecue areas, but you must bring your own materials.

Is there elephant riding?

No, elephant riding is no longer offered, but you can observe them.

Is the terrain steep?

Yes, the zoo is on a slope of the Taunus; sturdy footwear is advisable.

Can you feed the animals?

Yes, special food for selected animals can be purchased at the zoo.

Opel-Zoo Kronberg: where is it located?

Opel-Zoo Kronberg is located in Hesse, Germany.

Opel-Zoo Kronberg: what is there to see?

Highlights include Common eland, Apiary, Ostrich.

Opel-Zoo Kronberg: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.

Opel-Zoo Kronberg: why is it worth visiting?

The Opel Zoo is situated on the slopes of the Taunus mountains between Kronberg and Königstein and was founded in 1956 by Georg von Opel.

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