The Best Routes for Young Explorers

You can find the latest updates on Kunstmuseum Basel.

You can find the latest updates on Basel Tourism.

The Africa enclosure offers wide paths that are perfect for viewing giraffes and zebras. Children love the interactive elements found along these specific walking routes in the zoo. You will find plenty of wooden benches to rest between your various animal sightings. The layout ensures you never miss a major exhibit during your family visit.

Walking through the bird house provides a colorful experience for visitors of all ages. This path is sheltered and offers a warm escape during the cooler morning hours. You can see rare tropical birds flying freely above your head in this area. It is a peaceful section that allows for slow and steady exploration.

Animal Themed Walking Paths in Basel Zoo Highlights

The Tembea house is a major highlight for those seeking unique indoor walking paths. This area focuses on African wildlife like large elephants and various exotic bird species. The paths here are very wide and allow for easy movement with large strollers. You can spend an hour just exploring this massive and immersive indoor habitat.

Next, you should head toward the Vivarium to see incredible underwater life and reptiles. The circular walking path inside the Vivarium is cool and kept very dark. It provides a sensory experience that fascinates visitors of all ages and interests. This route is ideal for escaping the midday sun during the summer of 2026.

The Australis exhibit offers a path through the world of kangaroos and colorful birds. This trail feels like a short hike through the beautiful Australian outback landscape. It is one of the most immersive family friendly walking paths Basel has to offer. Kids can see animals up close without tall fences blocking their view.

The Sauter Garden is located in the newer part of the zoo grounds. This area features winding paths that lead you past snow leopards and playful monkeys. It is generally quieter than the main sections near the zoo entrance gate. The landscaping here is stunning and provides many great spots for family photos.

Essential Visitor Information for 2026

Basel Zoo is open every day of the year including all major public holidays. In 2026, adult tickets cost approximately 21 CHF for a full day of fun. Children under 16 enjoy discounted rates of about 10 CHF for their entry. You can buy tickets online to skip the long morning lines at the entrance.

The zoo is located just a short walk from the main Basel SBB train station. Most visitors find that four hours is enough time to see every major exhibit. If you have small children, consider renting a wooden pull-cart at the entrance. These carts make navigating the stroller friendly walking routes in Basel city much easier.

Picnic areas are scattered throughout the zoo grounds for your total convenience and comfort. You can bring your own food or eat at the large central restaurant. The restaurant offers healthy meals and a great view of the elephant park. Restrooms with changing tables are located near every major animal exhibit for parents.

The zoo shop near the exit offers many animal-themed souvenirs for your children. You can find plush toys, educational books, and local Swiss treats to take home. The shop accepts all major credit cards and local currency for your purchases. It is the perfect place to end your walking tour of the zoo.

Best Times to Visit the Zoo Trails

Early morning is the best time to see the animals being active and energetic. Most animals are fed between 8:00 AM and 10:00 AM each day. You will avoid the largest crowds by arriving right when the gates open. This allows for a peaceful walk through the scenic garden areas today.

Spring 2026 is a wonderful time to see newborn animals on the zoo trails. The cherry blossoms also bloom throughout the zoo grounds during late March each year. This creates a beautiful backdrop for your family photos along the walking paths. The weather is usually mild and perfect for walking long distances outside.

Winter visits offer a different but equally charming experience at the Basel Zoo. Many paths are heated or cleared of snow for your total visitor safety. You can enjoy the penguin walk which takes place daily during colder months. This is a must-see event for anyone visiting Basel in the winter.