The zoo is owned and operated by the Knie family, the founders of Switzerland's oldest and most famous circus.
It houses the first Swiss facility designed specifically for the husbandry and retirement of circus elephants.
The park features a specialized sea lion habitat with underwater viewing galleries for visitors.
Knie's Kinderzoo participates in the European Endangered Species Programme for several of its resident species.
The zoo’s design philosophy prioritizes direct contact between visitors and select gentle animal species, a rarity in modern European zoo standards.
It serves as the winter quarters for various animals that tour with the Circus Knie during the performing season.
Knie's Kinderzoo, owned by the famous Swiss National Circus Knie family, is a specialized zoo in Rapperswil-Jona focused on interactive animal encounters. It hosts a significant collection of exotic species, including giraffes, elephants, and sea lions, in settings designed for close-up observation. The zoo features a dedicated children's area where visitors can interact directly with domesticated animals like goats and ponies. Notable attractions include regular elephant and sea lion shows that emphasize educational engagement. The park's layout is specifically structured for families, with barrier-free paths suitable for strollers. Unlike traditional zoos, the park integrates circus-themed performance elements into its animal habitats. It is located on the shores of Lake Zürich, providing views of the water alongside its animal exhibits. The facility is actively involved in species conservation and breeding programs for endangered animals. It remains one of the few places in Switzerland offering elephant rides, subject to specific regulatory and welfare guidelines.
The viewing platform overlooking the elephant enclosure offers the most iconic perspective of the park.
Check the daily program at the entrance for feeding times and keeper talks, as these provide the most engaging animal interactions.
Allocate extra time for the interaction zone where children can enter enclosures with smaller animals.
Visit the elevated walkways for a better perspective on the larger animal habitats.
Avoid arriving during peak school holiday periods if you prefer a quieter experience; skip visiting during heavy rainfall as many activities are outdoors.
The park is seasonal, typically operating from March through October; it is closed during the winter months.
Strictly follow all posted rules regarding animal feeding; use only provided animal feed, as human food can be hazardous to the residents.
