Kontrollverlust - Metal in Erfurt
The metal formation Kontrollverlust ensures an unforgettable night at Bandhaus Erfurt.
Plizio Visual Lab
Thuringian Zoo Erfurt
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Animal habitat
The Thuringian Zoo Erfurt, opened in 1959 on the northern outskirts of the state capital, covers an impressive area of approximately 63 hectares. Located on the plateau of the Roter Berg, it is one of the largest zoos in Germany in terms of surface area, providing its animals with exceptionally spacious enclosures. The design of the habitats is closely modeled on natural environments, with a particular focus on large African mammals such as elephants, white rhinoceroses, and giraffes. Visitors can observe around 1,000 animals from about 140 different species while enjoying panoramic views over the Erfurt Basin towards the Thuringian Forest. Key architectural features include the modern elephant house and the vast Africa Savannah area, which highlight the zoo's commitment to species-appropriate husbandry. As a scientifically managed institution, the zoo is actively involved in international breeding programs for endangered species and operates an extensive education center focused on biodiversity conservation.
- Location: Thuringia, Germany
- Top sights: Hoheitsstein Land Thüringen · Heiligen Mühle · Flamingo
- Nearby: Sömmerda (18 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 | -1 | 0 | 4 | 9 | 13 | 17 | 19 | 19 | 14 | 9 | 4 | 0 |
| Rain mm | 51 | 37 | 44 | 35 | 68 | 60 | 77 | 61 | 56 | 48 | 54 | 54 |
📋 Practical info
Best season
Thuringian Zoo Erfurt is open year-round, but the best time for animal watching is spring when animals become more active after winter. Autumn provides mild temperatures and often quieter visits.
Best time of day
Early morning hours are handy as the animals are hungry and active after the night's rest. Afternoons are also good, especially if you want to witness feedings of some species.
Etiquette
Please stay on the paths and follow the signs to avoid endangering the animals. Feeding the animals is not allowed, as feeding is done by the zoo staff.
What to bring
Binoculars are recommended for better viewing of animals in the spacious enclosures. Comfortable, weather-resistant clothing is advisable as the zoo is on a hill and weather can be changeable.
Getting there
Thuringian Zoo Erfurt is located in the north of Erfurt on the Roter Berg and is accessible by car or public transport. There is ample parking for visitors.
What to expect
Some animals are shy or rest in the shade - take your time and watch the enclosure for a while. A second walk at a different time of day may be worthwhile as animals might be more active then.
Geography
Facts
- The zoo was officially opened on October 7, 1959.
- The facility spans a total area of 63 hectares on the Roter Berg plateau.
- It is home to approximately 1,000 animals from 140 different species.
- The highest point of the zoo reaches 234 meters above sea level.
- The modern elephant house features an indoor area of 1,500 square meters.
- The zoo attracts between 350,000 and 400,000 visitors every year.
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 Thuringian Zoo Erfurt (10)
Flamingo
Flamingo enclosure at Thuringian Zoo Erfurt.
Ilversgehofener Platz🌳 park
Public square in Ilversgehofen, a district of Erfurt.
DDR-Ausstellung DEUDERA🏛 museum
Museum about everyday GDR culture in Erfurt.
Berberberg Aussichtspunkt
Viewpoint in Thuringian Zoo, overlooking the grounds.
Thüringer Zoopark Erfurt
Zoo in Erfurt, the largest zoo in Thuringia with over 1000 animals.
Sankt Josef
Church building in Erfurt, a Catholic church in Neo-Gothic style.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Why is it called the 'Zoo of big animals'?
Because it has spacious enclosures for elephants, rhinos, and lions.
Are there elephants there?
Yes, the zoo has a modern elephant facility with a large herd.
Is the park hilly?
Yes, it's located on Roter Berg; you get a great view of Erfurt from the top.
Is there a train running through the zoo?
Yes, the Zoo-Express helps visitors comfortably manage the inclines.
Where is the best place to park?
There is a large free parking lot directly below the main entrance.
Thuringian Zoo Erfurt: where is it located?
Thuringian Zoo Erfurt is located in Thuringia, Germany.
Thuringian Zoo Erfurt: what is there to see?
Highlights include Hoheitsstein Land Thüringen, Heiligen Mühle, Flamingo.
Thuringian Zoo Erfurt: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Thuringian Zoo Erfurt: why is it worth visiting?
The Thuringian Zoo Erfurt, opened in 1959 on the northern outskirts of the state capital, covers an impressive area of approximately 63 hectares.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Europe
More places in Germany →
Nearby cities
Erfurt
Erfurt, the idyllic state capital of Thuringia, fascinates with one of the best-preserved medieval city centers in Germany.
Jena
Jena, located in the Saale valley in Thuringia, is a city globally renowned as a center for optics and precision engineering.
Gera
Gera is Thuringia's third-largest city and the birthplace of painter Otto Dix (1891).
Bamberg
Bamberg is located in Bavaria and is built on seven hills.
Plauen
Plauen is the largest city in the Vogtland region of Saxony.
Weimar
Weimar is a world-renowned cultural city in Thuringia.
Hof
Hof is located in northeast Bavaria on the Saale river.
Gotha
Gotha is a historic city in western Thuringia with the magnificent Friedenstein Palace.
Nordhausen
Nordhausen is a beautiful city.
Suhl
Suhl is a beautiful city.
Eisenach
Eisenach is a city on the northwestern edge of the Thuringian Forest, known as the birthplace of Johann Sebastian Bach and home to the Wa…
Ilmenau
Ilmenau is a beautiful city.
Altenburg
Altenburg is a beautiful city.
Mühlhausen
Mühlhausen is a beautiful city.
Mühlhausen/Thuringia
Mühlhausen is known as the town of towers and gates, featuring a nearly intact medieval wall and the former workplace of Johann Sebastian…