Description
In the heart of the Poitou Charente region, close to the beaches and the dunes of the Charente Maritime, the Palmyre zoo, one of the most visited private zoos in Europe and the most popular in France, is located.
This park, created in 1966 by Claude Caillé, a native of the region, covers 18 hectares in the heart of a pine forest and offers the opportunity to discover more than 1,800 animals representing all continents to visitors. 112 different species share the park in harmony : Cheetahs, polar bears, gorillas, elephants or giraffes. All kinds of animals, from the smallest to largest, from the well known to the least known animals, are present in the zoo and will delight all visitors.
The huge surface area of the park is converted into landscaped gardens designed to mimic the natural habitat of animals which live there. Quality of life of animals is an important point for the owners of the park. The zoo makes sure to constantly improve the living conditions of animals and this strategy pays off as the zoo records many births, every year : 200 to 300 a year!
The particularity of this park is that it plays an important role in the preservation of endangered species. The Palmyre zoo participates in 37 European breeding programs, and is also one of the founding members of the CEPA (Conservation of Species and Animals), which aims to protect animals at risk because they are either unknown or neglected.
To educate visitors, especially children, the park emphasizes the educational aspect of the visits : information on animal behavior, biology but also on the threats that affect them, are distributed near each pen. In addition, visiting programs and school projects are set up around varied themes to facilitate the work of teachers.
Schedule:
The Palmyre Zoo is open every day of the year. - April 1 to September 30 from 9:00 to 19:00
- October 1 to March 31 from 9:00 to 18:00
- Shows of sea lions and parrots are held every day from Easter until All Saints Day.
Entrance fees 2011:
- Adults : 15€
- Children from 3 to 12 : 11€
Practical information :
- The average length of visit is 4 hours,
- Various refreshment points (kiosks, vending machines, ice cream) and food are available inside the park,
- The zoo is fully accessible to disabled,
- Free parking,
- Animals, even on a leash, are prohibited,
Address :
Zoo de la Palmyre
6 Ancien chemin de Royan
17570 Les Mathes
Website
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