Zoolandia - Le Parc Zoologique et Botanique de Brazzaville

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In the middle of Brazzaville lies a hidden gem – a plot of tropical forest which half a century ago used to be one of the largest zoological parks on the continent. The ZOO went through a phase of decay and destruction, particularly during the civil war in the 90s. It was not until 2018 that slow renovations of the place began. The park re-opened under a new name – ZOOLANDIA - with a unique vision to combine zoology, botany and recently more and more plain family fun.

 

Currently, there are only a few animal exhibits (guinea pigs, a jackal, several types of monkeys, a few crocodile species, a civet cat, two very vocal goats and a bunch of ducks) and a few aviaries (palm vultures, kites, African fish eagles, a peacock and African grey parrots). The real appeal of this place, however, is taking a walk through the luscious forest and doing some birdwatching. You may even be lucky to spot African greys in the wild, chattering in the treetops! For that you have to visit during the week and preferably in the morning. 

 

If peace and quiet is not your thing, you may choose to bring your family for a day of fun on swings, slides, obstacle courses, climbing walls and a recently added zip line.  The play equipment looks brand new and it is well kept. There are bouncy castles and special places set up to take family photos.  According to the ZOOLANDIA Facebook page, they also host Fitness Days. 


The place has developed tremendously since we arrived in Brazzaville in 2019. A decent restaurant opened  in 2021, hugely popular for birthday parties and general hanging out with friends or family. It is definitely a new and upcoming spot to explore, especially if you have young children.

 

Historically, it is interesting to know that this is where the famous chimpanzee, Grégoire, spent most of his life. Rescued from malnutrition and loneliness by Jane Goodall, he was taken to the Tchimpounga Chimpanzee Rehabilitation Center near Pointe Noire where he happily spent the last years of his life.

 

Whether you are a birdwatcher, a historian or a fun lover, ZOOLANDIA is worth checking out!


ZOOLANDIA is open every day from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

The entrance fee is 500 CFA

https://www.zoolandia-cg.com/

https://www.facebook.com/zoolandiacongo

To find out more about the chimpanzee sanctuary near Pointe Noire:

https://www.janegoodall.org.uk/our-programmes/tchimpounga-chimpanzee-rehabilitation-centre

To access the NBC News article announcing Grégoire’s death:

https://www.nbcnews.com/id/wbna28368980






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