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Zoos

Sababurg Zoo

4.7 · 11,463 reviews
Rustic, naturalistic, and educational.
Sababurg Zoo, Sababurg 1, 34369 Hofgeismar
Interesting facts
1

Founded in 1571 as a hunting ground for Landgrave Wilhelm IV, making it one of the oldest zoos in the world.

2

The park serves as a vital sanctuary for endangered old livestock breeds, including the Girgentana goat and the Angeln saddleback pig.

3

The on-site Tierpark Museum displays exhibits regarding the history of the Reinhardswald and the cultural heritage of the hunting lodge.

4

It is home to the European Bison, which was successfully reintroduced into the wild through captive breeding programs originating in such parks.

5

The grounds are situated within the 'GrimmHeimat NordHessen' region, directly associated with the Sleeping Beauty castle nearby.

6

The park hosts regular flight demonstrations featuring eagles, falcons, and owls in a dedicated arena.

7

The zoo design emphasizes large, walk-through enclosures that allow visitors to observe native species in simulated natural habitats.

Overview

Tierpark Sababurg is a wildlife park located within the Reinhardswald forest, featuring an integrated museum and proximity to the Sababurg castle ruins. The park specializes in European fauna and ancient domestic animal breeds, maintained in expansive, naturalistic enclosures. It operates as a preservation center for endangered species, including the European bison and Przewalski's horse. Visitors can explore the 'Tierpark Museum,' which details the history of the 1571-founded park, one of the oldest in Europe. The site allows direct interaction with animals in a large petting zoo and offers falconry displays. The terrain is characterized by hilly, wooded landscapes surrounding the historic hunting castle grounds. It functions as both a recreational site and an educational facility focused on regional biodiversity.

Photo spot

The plateau overlooking the European bison enclosure with the Sababurg castle towers visible in the background.

Insider tips

Wear sturdy, waterproof hiking boots, as the terrain is hilly and often muddy.

Bring binoculars for observing the more reclusive species in the expansive, forested enclosures.

Plan your visit to coincide with the scheduled falconry demonstration to avoid missing the most popular daily event.

What to avoid

Trying to see every corner of the large, hilly site without taking breaks, and attempting to pet animals in non-designated areas.

Good to know

Open daily throughout the year, including public holidays; no scheduled seasonal closures.

Etiquette

Do not feed animals except with officially provided feed, stay on marked paths, and maintain a quiet demeanor to avoid disturbing wildlife.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
3-5 hours
Best time to visit
Spring or autumn mornings, when animals are most active and the forest atmosphere is at its peak.
Address
Sababurg Zoo, Sababurg 1, 34369 Hofgeismar
51.546, 9.530
Get directions
Details
Key WildlifeEuropean bison, elk, lynx, and rare domestic livestock breeds.
Educational FacilitiesTierpark Museum and guided falconry flight arena.

Frequently asked

Plan for about 3-5 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Spring or autumn mornings, when animals are most active and the forest atmosphere is at its peak..

The plateau overlooking the European bison enclosure with the Sababurg castle towers visible in the background.

Close by you'll find Bursfelde Abbey, Miniaturenpark "Der Mühlenplatz", Hannoversche Klippen.