The park was founded by local entrepreneur Van den Brink, who started by collecting rare pheasants.
Avifauna participates in the European Endangered Species Programme (EEP) for multiple bird species.
The park grounds contain a collection of exotic plants and a historical garden design that dates back to the mid-20th century.
Several walk-through aviaries allow visitors to stand within inches of free-flying tropical birds.
The park features a specialized hospital and quarantine facility for the medical treatment of birds.
The restaurant and hotel facilities are built within the park's parkland, blending architecture with the surrounding greenery.
Vogelpark Avifauna is the world's first dedicated bird park, established in 1950. The facility functions as both a specialized zoo and a hotel, integrated into a sprawling garden complex. It houses over 150 different bird species from across the globe, including rare and endangered varieties. Visitors can walk through large-scale aviaries, such as the Cuban aviary and the Australian wetland enclosure. The park facilitates international breeding programs to contribute to the conservation of threatened species. A distinct feature is the presentation of daily bird demonstrations, showcasing natural flying and hunting behaviors. The park is situated in the town of Alphen aan den Rijn, emphasizing horticultural landscaping alongside animal exhibits. The onsite hotel provides direct access to the park grounds for overnight guests.
The elevated viewing deck within the large tropical walk-through aviary, which provides panoramic views of the entire enclosure.
Bring a telephoto lens if you are interested in bird photography, as birds may remain high in the canopy.
Check the daily demonstration schedule upon entry, as these are the primary opportunities to see specific bird behaviors up close.
Wear comfortable, water-resistant walking shoes as the park features diverse terrain, including paths near ponds and wetland areas.
Attempting to touch the birds or straying from marked paths, which can disturb delicate habitats.
Open year-round, but specific outdoor aviaries may have reduced activity during extreme winter weather.
Maintain a quiet volume near nesting areas to avoid stressing the animals; do not feed the birds unless specific supervised sessions are provided.
