What Animals Can You See at Zoo de Beauval in France?

Picture this: You’re mapping out a family vacation to France, dreaming of close encounters with exotic wildlife that will leave everyone wide-eyed and smiling. Enter Zoo de Beauval, one of France’s most celebrated zoos, renowned for its vast collection of rare and fascinating animals. If you’re wondering, “What animals can you see at Zoo de Beauval in France?” this guide spotlights the zoo’s incredible lineup, from cuddly giants to elusive creatures. With over 35,000 animals across 800 species, it’s a must-visit for animal lovers, offering experiences that blend adventure, education, and awe.

About Zoo de Beauval

Nestled in the heart of the Loire Valley, Zoo de Beauval is located in Saint-Aignan-sur-Cher, about two hours south of Paris by car or train. This makes it an accessible day trip or weekend getaway from major cities like Tours or Orléans. Founded in 1980 by Françoise Delord as a modest bird park, it has since expanded into a world-class zoological paradise, thanks to the vision of the Delord family.

Spanning 44 hectares (about 109 acres), the zoo welcomes over 1.5 million visitors annually, making it one of Europe’s most popular attractions. Its expansive grounds include lush gardens, walking paths, and innovative enclosures designed for animal welfare. The zoo’s popularity stems from its commitment to immersion, where visitors feel transported to different continents without leaving France.

Zoo de Beauval has earned prestigious recognition, including being ranked among the top 10 zoos worldwide by TripAdvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Awards multiple times. It’s also a member of the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA) and has received accolades for its conservation efforts, such as successfully breeding giant pandas—a rarity in Europe.

Iconic Animals You Can See

Zoo de Beauval boasts an astonishing array of animals, many of which are endangered or unique to European zoos. The star attractions draw crowds year-round, offering glimpses into the wild that are both thrilling and educational. Whether you’re spotting majestic mammals or colorful birds, the diversity ensures something for every visitor.

One of the biggest draws is the giant pandas, a symbol of the zoo’s prestige. Zoo de Beauval is the only place in France—and one of few in Europe—where you can see these bamboo-munching icons. The family includes Yuan Zi, Huan Huan, and their cubs, born through the zoo’s successful breeding program. Their playful antics in the “Heights of China” enclosure are a highlight, especially during feeding times.

White tigers and lions add a touch of majesty with their striking coats and powerful presence. The white tigers, a rare genetic variant, roam in spacious habitats that mimic their natural environments, while African lions showcase group dynamics in pride settings.

Don’t miss the koalas, manatees, and okapis—each representing unique ecosystems. Koalas cling to eucalyptus trees in an Australian-inspired zone, manatees glide gracefully in aquatic tanks, and okapis, the “forest giraffes,” hide among dense foliage, offering a peek at Congo’s biodiversity.

Here’s a breakdown of major animal groups with standout examples:

• Mammals: Giant pandas, white tigers, African elephants, giraffes, okapis, koalas, red pandas, and manatees. Look for the gentle giants like hippopotamuses and rhinos too.
• Birds: Over 600 species, including flamingos, parrots, eagles, and the rare Philippine eagle. The zoo’s origins as a bird park shine through in its aviaries.
• Reptiles and Amphibians: Komodo dragons, crocodiles, pythons, and colorful frogs in humid tropical settings.
• Aquatic Animals: Penguins (Humboldt and Gentoo), sea lions, otters, and a variety of fish in underwater viewing areas.
• Primates: Gorillas, chimpanzees, orangutans, and lemurs, often seen swinging or foraging in family groups.

These animals are housed in environments that prioritize their well-being, allowing natural behaviors to flourish.

Themed Animal Zones

Zoo de Beauval’s layout is divided into themed zones, each recreating habitats from around the world. This immersive design not only enhances animal viewing but also educates on global ecosystems. Wandering through these areas feels like a safari adventure, with surprises at every turn.

The African Savannah zone transports you to the plains, where giraffes stretch their necks for leaves, rhinos wallow in mud, and zebras graze in herds. This expansive area includes antelopes and ostriches, offering panoramic views of herd interactions.

In the Asian zone, tigers prowl through bamboo forests, while red pandas scamper up trees. This section highlights endangered species from the continent, with enclosures that incorporate waterfalls and rocky terrains for authentic enrichment.

The aquatic zone focuses on marine life, featuring penguins waddling on icy replicas and sea lions basking on rocks. Underwater tunnels provide intimate views of swimming patterns, making it a favorite for kids.

Finally, the tropical dome is a humid haven for birds, reptiles, and amphibians. Free-flying birds soar overhead, sloths hang lazily, and vibrant reptiles like iguanas bask under heat lamps. It’s a sensory explosion of colors and sounds.

• African Savannah: Giraffes, rhinos, zebras, elephants, and lions in open landscapes.
• Asian Zone: Tigers, red pandas, snow leopards, and Asian elephants.
• Aquatic Zone: Penguins, sea lions, manatees, and otters with interactive water features.
• Tropical Dome: Exotic birds, reptiles (e.g., alligators, turtles), and amphibians in a climate-controlled greenhouse.

These zones are connected by scenic paths, with signage explaining animal facts and conservation status.

Animal Shows and Experiences

Beyond static viewing, Zoo de Beauval offers dynamic shows and experiences that bring animals to life. These interactive elements are scheduled throughout the day, adding excitement to your visit. They’re designed to be educational, showcasing natural behaviors in entertaining ways.

The bird show is a spectacular highlight, featuring eagles, vultures, and parrots soaring above the audience in a 3,000-seat amphitheater. Trainers demonstrate hunting techniques and flight patterns, emphasizing conservation messages.

Sea lion presentations entertain with acrobatic flips and clever tricks while revealing insights into marine intelligence. These shows run multiple times daily, weather permitting.

Feeding sessions and keeper talks provide up-close moments—watch pandas munch bamboo or elephants enjoy enrichment activities. For a deeper dive, behind-the-scenes or VIP experiences let you meet keepers, assist with feedings, or even enter select enclosures (with safety protocols).

• Bird Shows: Daily flights with raptors and exotic birds.
• Sea Lion Presentations: Fun, educational displays of agility and smarts.
• Feeding Sessions: Timed events for pandas, big cats, and more.
• VIP Experiences: Exclusive tours, like panda breakfasts or giraffe feedings, for an extra fee.

These activities make visits memorable, especially for families seeking hands-on learning.

Conservation and Education

Zoo de Beauval isn’t just about entertainment—it’s a leader in conservation. The zoo runs breeding programs for over 20 endangered species, contributing to global efforts. Success stories include the birth of giant panda cubs, which are part of international loan programs with China to boost wild populations.

Partnerships with organizations like the IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) support fieldwork, such as habitat protection for okapis in the Congo. Funds from ticket sales and donations fuel these initiatives, making every visit impactful.

Education is woven into the experience, with exhibits, talks, and workshops teaching about biodiversity. Children particularly benefit from school programs and interactive displays that explain threats like habitat loss and poaching, inspiring the next generation of conservationists.

Conclusion

From the adorable giant pandas and majestic white tigers to the vibrant birds in the tropical dome, Zoo de Beauval offers an unmatched variety of animals that captivate all ages. Iconic species like koalas, manatees, and okapis, spread across themed zones, ensure a world-tour feel right in France. With engaging shows, a conservation focus, and educational depth, it’s more than a zoo—it’s an inspiring adventure.

For the latest on new arrivals or seasonal events, check the official Zoo de Beauval website. The best times to visit for optimal animal visibility are spring and fall, when crowds are lighter and animals are more active in milder weather. Whether you’re a family, couple, or solo traveler, prepare for a day filled with wonder—what animals will you spot first?