The zoo is part of the Parc de la Tête d'Or, which was modeled after the English-style landscape park design.
It maintains a significant focus on the conservation of endangered species, contributing to international breeding programs.
Unlike many major city zoos, it remains free to the public, funded by the City of Lyon.
The zoo’s African plain enclosure allows for multi-species exhibits, replicating natural herd dynamics.
The park is situated on land once owned by the Hospices Civils de Lyon.
It is home to rare species such as the Fossa, a carnivore endemic to Madagascar.
The zoo works in coordination with the EAZA (European Association of Zoos and Aquaria).
Lyon Zoo, officially known as the Parc de la Tête d’Or Zoo, is a historic institution established in 1857 within one of France's largest urban parks. The facility serves as a non-commercial, free-access zoological garden dedicated to biodiversity conservation and public education. It houses approximately 300 animals representing 66 species, including primates, big cats, and giraffes. The grounds feature a distinctive African plain enclosure where zebras and giraffes cohabitate. The site emphasizes European Endangered Species Programmes (EEP) to manage captive populations. Notable habitats include a large-scale aviary and a tropical greenhouse integrated into the park landscape. The zoo operates as a municipal entity committed to animal welfare and habitat preservation. Visitors navigate the zoo via pathways that wind through the broader 117-hectare park.
The viewing bridge overlooking the African plain, which provides a panoramic view of the giraffes and zebras.
Arrive early in the morning to see animals at their most active before the midday heat.
Plan your visit to coincide with the zoo’s organized animal feeding or keeper talks to learn more about specific species.
Bring comfortable walking shoes, as the zoo is part of a very large park that requires significant walking to explore fully.
Avoid visiting during extreme heat waves, as many animals seek shade in back-of-house areas and become difficult to view.
The zoo is open daily throughout the year, though specific indoor habitats may have restricted access during winter months.
Do not feed the animals, refrain from tapping on glass enclosures, and keep noise levels low to avoid stressing the wildlife.
