The entire structure is a single, massive greenhouse without internal columns to support the roof.
The forest floor incorporates a recirculating stream system that connects to the zoo's 'Ocean' aquarium facility.
The temperature is kept at a minimum of 20 degrees Celsius throughout the year to support tropical flora.
Many of the plants in the Bush were specifically sourced from Southeast Asia and Central America during the initial construction phase.
The exhibit includes a dedicated research station where biologists monitor the health and behavior of the free-roaming population.
It is one of the largest indoor tropical ecosystems built within a zoo setting globally.
Burgers' Bush is a 1.5-hectare indoor tropical rainforest ecosystem located within the Burgers' Zoo complex in Arnhem. It functions as a climate-controlled conservatory replicating a Belizean rainforest environment, maintaining constant high humidity and temperature year-round. The facility features a elevated walkway system allowing visitors to observe canopy-dwelling species from an aerial perspective. Beneath the canopy, a network of ground-level paths winds through dense vegetation and past artificial riverbanks. It houses a wide variety of free-roaming animals, including birds, reptiles, and mammals like capybaras and anteaters. The structure uses a large-scale glass roof system that allows natural UV light penetration for plant development. Water management systems maintain a stream that flows into a man-made lake within the enclosure. It represents an early example of ecological exhibit design, focusing on large, immersive habitats rather than traditional animal cages.
The elevated suspension bridge that offers a panoramic view over the forest canopy.
Dress in layers, as the humidity and temperature inside are significantly higher than the outdoor climate.
Look for the elevated canopy trail to spot birds and monkeys that are often hidden from ground-level views.
Keep cameras and electronic devices in sealed bags to protect them from the persistent high moisture levels.
Avoid entering the exhibit with heavy winter coats, as there is no climate transition zone and you will quickly overheat.
Do not touch or feed the free-roaming animals; stay on marked paths to avoid damaging the sensitive tropical vegetation.
