The zoo is home to one of the largest colonies of free-flying white storks in Westphalia.
The Barbary macaque forest allows visitors to walk on paths shared by the primates without physical barriers.
NaturZoo Rheine participates in numerous European Endangered Species Programmes (EEP) for rare wildlife.
The seal enclosure features an underwater viewing window that allows visitors to observe animals swimming at eye level.
The zoo was founded in 1965 and has expanded to occupy its current riverside location near the Saline park.
Many of the stork nests are located on top of historical or man-made structures within the park boundaries.
NaturZoo Rheine is situated along the Ems River and is best known for its walk-through monkey forest where Barbary macaques roam freely among visitors. The zoo houses approximately 1,000 animals representing over 100 species, focusing on naturalistic habitats rather than traditional cages. A major feature is the stork colony, with dozens of nests built on chimneys and trees throughout the park. The grounds include an extensive petting zoo area allowing direct interaction with domestic animals like goats and donkeys. The facility operates as a non-profit organization dedicated to conservation, education, and research. Dedicated viewing areas provide elevated perspectives of the seals and penguins during feeding sessions. The park is integrated into a larger riverside park landscape, providing walking paths that connect the zoo to the Ems riverbank. Most enclosures are designed to allow animals to retreat from public view if they choose.
The underwater viewing window at the seal enclosure and the elevated bridge over the monkey forest.
Purchase a bag of animal feed at the entrance to interact with the goats and donkeys in the petting zoo.
Visit during feeding times for the seals and penguins, as the animals are most active and visible during these sessions.
Stay on the designated footpaths in the monkey forest and avoid bringing food inside that area.
Attempting to touch the Barbary macaques in the monkey forest, as they are wild animals and may bite if threatened or handled.
Open daily throughout the year, including weekends and public holidays; no seasonal closures reported.
Do not feed the animals unless specifically permitted by zoo staff; keep noise levels low near enclosures.
