Ever wondered about a zoo boasting the world’s largest publicly accessible chameleon collection? Welcome to Zoopark Zajezd.
Nestled just outside Prague this family-run zoo is a hidden gem. It’s not your typical sprawling mega-zoo. Instead it offers an intimate experience. You can get really close to the animals. Zoopark Zajezd opened in 2010. Its founders Jiri Marek and Dana Frankova had a dream. They poured their hearts into creating this special place. They began building in 1998.
More than 100 species of exotic and domestic animals call this zoo home. You’ll encounter playful lemurs and their adorable young. Cheeky squirrels might even try to jump on your head. Don’t miss the meerkats. These clever creatures are always a delight to watch. The blond lynx is another star attraction. Their striking coat is simply unforgettable.
But the real showstopper is the Terrarium exhibit. This houses an impressive collection of chameleons. It’s a sight you won’t easily forget. There are around thirty species of reptiles in total including rare and endangered species. The zoo also breeds African savanna eagles. You’ll also find South American birds like the tangara and the kwetomil. These are birds you won’t find in any other Czech zoo. They are also rare in Europe. The zoo has even successfully bred the Malimbi dwarf chameleon. This hasn’t been done anywhere else in Europe.
The zoo isn’t just about exotic animals. There’s a petting zoo too. Children can get up close and personal with sheep goats and rabbits. The zoo is designed to be completely natural. The enclosures are built from natural materials. This fits perfectly with the surrounding Czech countryside. In 2019 a unique walk-through squirrel enclosure opened. It’s the only one in the Czech Republic. Golden-mantled tamarin monkeys share the enclosure.
New additions in 2022 included a Latin America exhibit. This houses five species of monkeys. There’s also a new exhibit for European tortoises. Zoopark Zajezd is constantly evolving. It’s growing while still maintaining its family-friendly atmosphere. The zoo offers various educational programs. These include guided tours and demonstrations. There is also a children’s playground and a cafe. This serves delicious coffee and local treats. So come and spend a day exploring this special place. You will create unforgettable memories at Zoopark Zajezd.