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Zoos

Animal Park of the Pyrenees

4.7 · 9,506 reviews
An immersive and educational mountain trek
Animal Park of the Pyrenees, 60Bis Av. des Pyrénées, 65400 Ayzac-Ost, France
Interesting facts
1

The park participates in several European Endangered Species Programmes (EEP) to preserve threatened mountain wildlife.

2

Some enclosures allow visitors to enter shared habitats with certain animals, such as marmots, under park supervision.

3

The facility is designed as a semi-wild environment where species like the brown bear roam in multi-hectare mountainous terrain.

4

It is specifically recognized for its successful breeding programs for the Pyrenean chamois and local mountain raptors.

5

The layout utilizes the natural elevation of the Hautes-Pyrénées landscape to separate different altitude-dwelling species.

Overview

The Animal Park of the Pyrenees is a mountainside zoological facility located in the French Pyrenees, focused on regional wildlife preservation. The park allows visitors to observe animals in large enclosures designed to mimic their natural habitat. A primary feature is the interactive marmot zone where visitors can observe the animals at close range. It houses native Pyrenean species, including brown bears, wolves, lynx, and otters. The topography of the park follows the natural slope of the mountain, requiring visitors to walk on inclined terrain. It serves as both a tourist destination and a center for conservation breeding programs.

Photo spot

The viewing platform overlooking the brown bear enclosure provides the most unobstructed perspective of the animals against the mountain backdrop.

Insider tips

Wear sturdy, supportive hiking boots or athletic shoes suitable for steep mountain paths.

Bring binoculars, as the expansive nature of the enclosures can make spotting shy animals in the brush difficult.

Check the daily feeding schedule upon arrival at the entrance to ensure you don't miss the interactive marmot sessions.

What to avoid

Avoid visiting during the peak heat of summer mid-days, when most mountain animals retreat to shaded cover and are difficult to view.

Good to know

The park is generally closed during the winter months and transitions to varying opening schedules based on the school holiday calendar.

Etiquette

Maintain a respectful distance from enclosures and keep noise levels low to avoid distressing the animals; follow all signs regarding food restrictions.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
3-4 hours
Best time to visit
Early morning or late afternoon during the shoulder seasons (spring or autumn) to see the animals most active.
Address
Animal Park of the Pyrenees, 60Bis Av. des Pyrénées, 65400 Ayzac-Ost, France
43.015, -0.098
Get directions
Details
Key WildlifeBrown bears, Pyrenean wolves, marmots, lynx, and otters
TerrainSteep, natural mountain slopes and rugged paths

Frequently asked

Plan for about 3-4 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Early morning or late afternoon during the shoulder seasons (spring or autumn) to see the animals most active..

The viewing platform overlooking the brown bear enclosure provides the most unobstructed perspective of the animals against the mountain backdrop.

Close by you'll find Eglise Saint Saturnin d'Argelès-Gazost, Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes, Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary.