The zoo specializes in 'unconventional' pets that the owners have often rescued or taken in as permanent residents.
It is situated in Orvelte, a village designated as a protected cultural heritage site known for its 19th-century farmsteads.
The zoo operates as an educational center rather than a large-scale attraction, limiting the number of visitors per tour to ensure animal comfort.
Many of the residents are animals that were previously abandoned or surrendered by private owners.
The facility is designed as an interactive encounter zone, removing the distance barrier found in standard zoological parks.
Zoo Bizar is a unique, small-scale zoo located within the historic museum village of Orvelte in the Netherlands. Unlike traditional zoos, it focuses on exotic animals that are typically kept as pets, such as reptiles, spiders, and small mammals. The facility emphasizes personal interaction, often allowing guided tours where keepers provide close-up educational experiences. It is housed in a renovated farm building, maintaining the traditional architectural aesthetic of the Drenthe region. The collection is housed entirely indoors, making it suitable for visits regardless of weather conditions. Visitors can encounter species like kinkajous, skunks, and various insects. The zoo prioritizes animal welfare and education about the ethics of exotic pet ownership.
The interactive encounter area where you can capture clear, close-up shots of the animals under professional supervision.
Book your guided tour in advance, as visits are often organized in small, timed groups.
Ask the keepers about the specific rescue stories of the animals to get the most out of your visit.
Prepare for the indoor climate, which is maintained to meet the specific tropical or arid needs of the resident reptiles and arachnids.
Do not expect a sprawling park or large enclosures; this is a specialized, compact indoor facility.
Closed on Mondays. Open daily during school holiday periods.
Visitors must remain quiet and follow the keeper's instructions strictly, as the small space makes animals sensitive to noise and sudden movements.
