GaiaZOO, Modern zoo in Kerkrade, Netherlands.
GaiaZOO is a zoo in Kerkrade, Netherlands, that presents animals from Africa, South America and Asia in spacious enclosures. The paths wind through wooded slopes and across viewing platforms from which you can look down into the habitats.
The zoo opened in 2005 on a former industrial site and replaced an older animal park in the region. The facility was planned from the start to blend into the hilly landscape and to design the enclosures as naturally as possible.
The name Gaia refers to the Greek earth goddess and reflects in the design that recreates different continents. Families with children use the playgrounds and interactive stations, while visitors can watch keepers during feeding times.
The site lies on a slope and requires some uphill walking, so sturdy footwear is advisable. Several rest areas and covered sections offer chances to pause, especially on hot or rainy days.
In the Dino Territory lifesize models of extinct reptiles stand among the modern animal enclosures. A tunnel runs through the predator area and allows you to watch lions and tigers from below through glass panels.
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