Denmark is a country known for its love of nature, wildlife conservation, and family-friendly attractions. Whether you’re an expat looking for weekend activities or a visitor seeking unique experiences, the zoos in Denmark offer incredible opportunities to see animals from around the world in well-designed, ethical habitats.
From the famous Copenhagen Zoo to the breathtaking Givskud Zoo Safari Park, Denmark has some of the best zoos in Europe. In this guide, we’ll explore the top zoos in Denmark, what makes them special, and why they’re worth a visit.
Discover the best zoos in Denmark here.
🦁 1. Copenhagen Zoo – Denmark’s Oldest and Most Famous Zoo
📍 Location: Frederiksberg, Copenhagen
⭐ Best for: Families, rare animal species, and iconic panda house
Founded in 1859, Copenhagen Zoo is one of the oldest and most visited zoos in Denmark. The zoo is home to over 4,000 animals from across the globe and is known for its focus on conservation and education.
Highlights of Copenhagen Zoo
🐼 The Panda House – A spectacular circular habitat designed by BIG (Bjarke Ingels Group).
🦒 The Savanna Exhibit – See giraffes, zebras, and antelopes in a naturalistic environment.
🐅 The Arctic Ring – Walk through an underwater glass tunnel and watch polar bears swim above you!
💡 Tip: Visit during feeding times to see lions, elephants, and tigers up close.
🦓 2. Givskud Zoo – The Ultimate Safari Experience
📍 Location: Givskud (Jutland)
⭐ Best for: Safari-style adventure and up-close animal encounters
Givskud Zoo is not just a zoo—it’s a safari park where visitors can drive through massive enclosures and observe lions, rhinos, and zebras roaming freely.
Why Visit Givskud Zoo?
🚗 Self-Drive Safari – Drive through areas with wild animals walking freely around your car.
🦏 Meet Rhinos and Giraffes – One of the best places in Denmark to see these large animals up close.
🦖 Dinosaur Park – An added attraction featuring lifesize dinosaur models!
💡 Tip: Rent an electric safari bus if you don’t have a car.
🦍 3. Odense Zoo – A Family-Friendly Favorite
📍 Location: Odense (Funen)
⭐ Best for: Families and children-friendly activities
Located in Hans Christian Andersen’s hometown, Odense Zoo is a fantastic choice for families with young children. It has been awarded “Best Zoo in Europe” multiple times for its engaging exhibits and excellent animal welfare programs.
Top Attractions at Odense Zoo
🦜 Rainforest Dome – A tropical zone filled with free-flying birds and exotic animals.
🐘 Asia Exhibit – Home to elephants, tapirs, and rare red pandas.
🦥 Night Zoo Experience – See animals come to life in the evening light show.
💡 Tip: Don’t miss the boat tour inside the zoo for a different perspective!
🐧 4. Aalborg Zoo – A Hidden Gem in Northern Denmark
📍 Location: Aalborg (Northern Jutland)
⭐ Best for: Conservation projects and Arctic wildlife
Aalborg Zoo is famous for its commitment to wildlife conservation, focusing on endangered species and sustainable habitats.
Must-See Animals at Aalborg Zoo
🐧 King Penguins – One of the few places in Europe where you can see them.
🦅 Nordic Wildlife Exhibit – Featuring wolves, moose, and lynxes.
🐘 Elephant House – A large, naturalistic home for the zoo’s beloved elephants.
💡 Tip: Aalborg Zoo is less crowded than other Danish zoos, making it a great place for relaxed visits.
🐬 5. Ree Park Safari – Up-Close Wildlife Encounters
📍 Location: Djursland (Jutland)
⭐ Best for: Interactive experiences with animals
Located in the Danish countryside, Ree Park Safari is a spacious, open zoo where animals have large, natural habitats.
Why Visit Ree Park Safari?
🚂 Safari Train Tour – Ride a safari train through the African savanna exhibit.
🦁 Lion Camp – Watch lions in an open, naturalistic setting.
🐎 Camel and Horseback Riding – Get even closer to animals in a unique way.
💡 Tip: Stay overnight in a safari-style lodge for an unforgettable experience!
Find more amazing zoos in Denmark here.
🦜 What Makes Zoos in Denmark Special?
Denmark’s zoos focus on education, conservation, and animal welfare, making them great places for both learning and entertainment. Here’s why they stand out:
✅ Animal Welfare First – Zoos in Denmark prioritize spacious, natural habitats over small cages.
✅ Conservation Efforts – Many Danish zoos participate in global breeding and rescue programs.
✅ Interactive Experiences – Visitors can enjoy feeding sessions, animal safaris, and guided tours.
🐾 Which Zoo in Denmark Should You Visit?
Here’s a quick guide to help you choose:
✅ For a Classic Zoo Experience → Copenhagen Zoo
✅ For a Safari Adventure → Givskud Zoo
✅ For Families with Kids → Odense Zoo
✅ For Arctic & Nordic Wildlife → Aalborg Zoo
✅ For Unique Safari Activities → Ree Park Safari
No matter which one you choose, visiting zoos in Denmark will give you an unforgettable wildlife experience! 🦁🐼🐘