The zoo's first director, Bernhard Grzimek, is credited with saving the institution from total destruction during World War II.
The Exotarium building is a landmark of mid-century architecture and remains the most prominent structure on the grounds.
The zoo is actively involved in the European Endangered Species Programme (EEP) for many of its residents.
The Borgori Forest house provides a climate-controlled environment that allows year-round observation of gorillas in a social group structure.
The zoo maintains a specific focus on the preservation of West African fauna.
Zoo Frankfurt is one of the world's oldest zoological gardens, founded in 1858 and located in the heart of Frankfurt. The facility is internationally recognized for its historic Exotarium, which houses a diverse collection of reptiles, amphibians, and fish. It manages significant captive breeding programs for species including gorillas, rhinos, and lions. The site features the Borgori Forest, an expansive indoor facility designed specifically to simulate the environment of great apes. Its central urban location allows for easy integration into a city sightseeing itinerary. The zoo emphasizes conservation, education, and research as core pillars of its operations. Visitors can observe animals in habitats that reflect their natural ecosystems.
The glass viewing panels in the Borgori Forest for close-up portraits of the gorilla troop.
Check the official website for daily feeding times, as these provide the best opportunity to see more active animal behavior.
Use the secondary entrances if visiting on weekends to avoid potential queueing at the main gate.
Bring comfortable walking shoes as the grounds are expansive and feature various sloping paths.
Avoid visiting during peak summer heat in the afternoon, as many animals will retreat to indoor or shaded shelters, making them difficult to spot.
Open 365 days a year, including all public holidays.
Maintain silence near animal enclosures to reduce stress for the species, and strictly refrain from feeding any animals as their diets are monitored.
