The zoo was established by Georg von Opel, the grandson of the founder of the Opel automobile company.
It is one of the few zoos in Europe that maintains a breeding group of African elephants in a modern, expansive enclosure.
The park grounds feature an old, renovated water tower that serves as a landmark on the property.
The zoo participates in the 'Ex-situ' conservation program, specifically focusing on the survival of the Persian leopard.
It maintains a specialized breeding station for the rare and endangered red panda.
The park provides a large walkthrough aviary allowing close-up interaction with various avian species.
In 2026, the zoo continues to support various local biodiversity projects in the Taunus region.
The animal collection includes a dedicated 'African landscape' zone designed to house elephants, hippos, and giraffes in proximity.
Opel Zoo is a privately owned wildlife park located on the slopes of the Taunus mountain range near Frankfurt. The facility houses over 1,600 animals from approximately 200 species across a 27-hectare landscape. It serves as a significant conservation center, participating in European Endangered Species Programmes for species like the Persian leopard and the red panda. Visitors can view large enclosures for African elephants, hippos, giraffes, and zebras. A notable feature is the historical connection to the Opel family, specifically Georg von Opel, who founded the zoo in 1956. The park grounds include a protected monument and a historical water tower. It operates an educational program focused on zoology and environmental awareness for school groups. The layout emphasizes open-air enclosures designed to mimic natural habitats for animals such as meerkats, camels, and various bird species.
The viewing platform overlooking the African elephant enclosure provides the best vantage point for photography.
Wear sturdy walking shoes, as the park is situated on a hilly slope requiring significant incline walking.
Bring binoculars to better view animals in the larger, more expansive outdoor habitats.
Plan to participate in one of the daily public feeding demonstrations to see the animals at their most active.
Avoid arriving late in the afternoon, as many animals begin to retreat to their indoor shelters before the park closes.
The zoo is open daily, including all public holidays, throughout the entire year.
Do not feed the animals personal food; stay on designated paths; keep noise levels low near breeding enclosures.
