The park was founded by the Malter family, who have a historical background in the traveling circus industry.
It is one of the few remaining privately operated family zoos in the Flanders region.
The park grounds contain a mix of permanent animal enclosures and seasonal amusement rides.
The site includes a dedicated 'Circus Museum' element that reflects the founders' heritage.
Some of the animal habitats are designed to allow for close-proximity observation to enhance educational value.
Harry Malter Family Park is a privately owned animal and amusement park located in Destelbergen, just outside Ghent. The facility combines a traditional small zoo with various mechanical playgrounds and circus-themed attractions suitable for young children. The park features a diverse collection of exotic and domestic animals, including capuchins, lemurs, and wallabies. Visitors can traverse an indoor playground alongside outdoor jumping castles and carousels. The park is specifically designed for family-oriented recreation with a focus on interactive encounters. It maintains a distinct, compact layout that allows for easy navigation with toddlers and young school-aged children.
The central carousel area, which captures the park's vintage circus aesthetic.
Bring a change of clothes for children, as the outdoor play area includes water-based attractions.
Check the park's official event calendar before arriving, as they occasionally host live circus-style performances.
Plan to visit on a weekday if possible to avoid the significantly higher crowds typical of weekend family outings.
Do not expect a large-scale, international-style zoological garden; this is a regional, family-focused recreational park.
The park operates on a seasonal basis; generally closed during the winter months and open daily during the spring and summer peak seasons.
Casual, weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable walking shoes are recommended; strict no-feeding policy for zoo animals.
