Ankara Zoo, Zoo in Ankara, Turkey
Ankara Zoo sits on 32 hectares within the Atatürk Forest Farm and displays big cats, birds, monkeys, apes, ungulates, reptiles, and an aquarium. The grounds combine different habitats and enclosures to showcase animal species in designed settings.
The forest farm was established in 1925 by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, and the zoo opened in 1933. The entire complex was transferred to the Turkish state in 1937 and has grown since.
A replica of President Atatürk's childhood home sits within the farm grounds, offering visitors a window into the early life of Turkey's founding leader. The setting blends recreation with personal history, making the nation's past tangible to those who visit.
The facility opens daily at 8:00 AM and closes at 8:00 PM, with restaurants serving traditional dishes and fresh products on site. Comfortable walking shoes and time to explore the different sections are recommended for visitors.
The zoo runs a specialized breeding program for Angora cats, preserving this Turkish breed through controlled reproduction. These animals reflect the historical importance of this local cat variety to the region.
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