Chester Zoo Entry Ticket

Heart of Africa: the savannah and its animals

Heart of Africa is one of the newest and most ambitious areas of Chester Zoo, a vast savannah habitat inspired by the grasslands of Central and East Africa. Giraffes, zebras, antelopes and ostriches roam together across open plains, and raised viewpoints let you watch them as if you were on safari. Carefully chosen plants and shrubs recreate the colours and textures of the African landscape.

Around the savannah, smaller habitats reveal fascinating species, from aardvarks and porcupines to critically endangered vultures and colourful birds such as flamingos and lovebirds. In the Hidden Savannah building, look for chameleons, pancake tortoises and a busy colony of naked mole rats. Plan at least an hour here, as there is much to discover, especially at feeding times.

The Islands zone and the tropical biodome

The Islands zone takes you on a journey through the islands of Southeast Asia, with village-style buildings, wooden walkways and lush planting. Here you can see Sumatran tigers, rare birds, crocodiles and other species from the region, and learn how the zoo works with local partners to protect them in the wild.

At the heart of the zone stands the Monsoon Forest, the largest indoor tropical biodome in the UK, where a warm, humid rainforest is filled with birds, monkeys and reptiles. In the warmer months, a gentle boat ride along a lazy river offers another way to see the islands. Islands is one of the most immersive parts of the zoo, so allow plenty of time.

Lemurs, elephants and more habitats to explore

In the Madagascar lemur walkthrough, you walk through the lemurs' own forest, where several endangered and critically endangered species, including the ring-tailed lemur, move freely around the path. It is one of the most loved experiences at the zoo, especially for children, and keepers are often on hand to answer questions.

Elsewhere, a herd of Asian elephants lives in a large forest habitat with pools and sand, orangutans swing high in their tropical realm, and jaguars, chimpanzees, giraffes and okapis add to the variety. Is Chester Zoo worth visiting? With such a wide range of species and spacious habitats, it is one of the best zoos in Europe and easily fills a full day.

Planning your visit: gardens, opening hours and how to get there

Chester Zoo stretches over about 50 hectares of award-winning botanical gardens, with flower borders, ponds and shady trees between the habitats. Five adventure playgrounds give younger visitors a chance to climb and play, and daily talks by the zoo's rangers explain the animals' behaviour and the zoo's conservation work. Chester Zoo opening hours usually start at 10 am, with closing time varying by season.

How to get to Chester Zoo? It lies in Upton-by-Chester, about 5 kilometres north of Chester city centre, with local buses from the city and the railway station and free parking for drivers. Wear comfortable shoes, as you will walk several kilometres, and bring layers and a rain jacket. The best time to visit Chester Zoo is on a weekday in spring or early autumn.