Meet Giant Pandas, Gorillas, and Bears in One of the Netherlands’ Most Unique Zoos
If you’re looking for an unforgettable day out in the Netherlands, then Ouwehands Dierenpark in Rhenen should be at the top of your list. This zoo is not only famous for its incredible variety of animals but also for being home to the country’s beloved giant pandas Wu Wen and Xing Ya, who arrived in 2017 and quickly became national celebrities. The impressive Pandasia complex, built in authentic Chinese style, offers visitors a chance to get close to these gentle giants while learning about conservation and their natural habitats.
But the pandas are just the beginning of the adventure. Families and wildlife enthusiasts alike will be captivated by the Bear Forest (Het Berenbos), a vast wooded enclosure where rescued brown bears roam freely among rocks, ponds, and waterfalls. The Gorilla Adventure is another highlight, featuring an enormous indoor space with an 80-meter tunnel that lets you come face-to-face with one of the world’s most powerful primates. Children will love RavotAapia, Europe’s largest indoor play jungle, which is designed to look and feel like a real rainforest. And of course, sea lions, tigers, red pandas, wolves, and countless bird species are all part of the zoo’s diverse collection.
What makes Ouwehands Zoo truly special is how it combines animal care, conservation, and entertainment. Every habitat is designed to reflect the animals’ natural environment, from the lush greenery of Gibbon Island to the rugged landscapes of the Tiger Forest. Programs like Bears in Mind not only rescue animals but also raise awareness about protecting wildlife worldwide. This blend of education and adventure makes your visit both fun and meaningful.
And let’s not forget about the location. Ouwehands Zoo is set against the historic backdrop of the Grebbeberg, a hill known for its role in World War II history. Its position in the heart of the Netherlands makes it easy to combine a day at the zoo with other cultural trips in Utrecht, Arnhem, or Amersfoort. After a full day of watching gorillas, sea lions, and pandas, many visitors enjoy returning to a peaceful base like Bungalow Park ’t Eekhoornnest in Soest, which offers cozy family-run vacation bungalows surrounded by forest. From there, you can plan the rest of your Dutch adventure with ease.
So, whether you want to marvel at the giant pandas, wander through a forest filled with bears, or let your kids explore a jungle playground, Ouwehands Dierenpark offers a day filled with discovery and delight. Keep reading to learn more about hidden gems, great dining options, and insider tips that will make your visit even more memorable.
Hidden Gems, Family Dining, and Extra Experiences
Surprising Corners of the Zoo
While most visitors come for the giant pandas in Pandasia or the playful gorillas, Ouwehands Zoo is filled with smaller gems waiting to be discovered. The Bear Forest (Het Berenbos) is not only a place where rescued brown bears roam in a natural setting of rocks, waterfalls, and ponds, but it also tells a heartwarming story about animal welfare and conservation. Tucked away nearby is Gibbon Island, where the calls of these agile primates echo across the zoo and create an exotic jungle atmosphere. For those interested in marine mammals, the Sea Lion Theatre offers entertaining shows that highlight the intelligence and agility of these playful animals.
Children will be especially enchanted by RavotAapia, Europe’s largest indoor play jungle. With its rope bridges, climbing structures, and rainforest theme, it feels more like an adventure park than a playground. It is the perfect place to let kids burn off some energy while parents relax nearby. If you are curious about lesser-known residents, seek out the red pandas, Malayan sun bears, and wolves. These habitats are designed to reflect their natural environments and give visitors the chance to see animals that are often overlooked.
Eating and Relaxing at the Zoo
Exploring a zoo is hungry work, and Ouwehands offers plenty of options for a tasty break. The most eye-catching is the Jungle Restaurant, with its lush décor and family-friendly menu. Here you can enjoy Dutch and international dishes surrounded by rainforest vibes. Another must-visit is the Maki Lounge, a café with panoramic views of the lemur enclosures, which makes for a fun and interactive dining experience. For something quick, there are snack points throughout the zoo, and in Pandasia you’ll find themed dining areas with an Asian twist that match the panda habitat. Coffee lovers can head to the Koffiehuis, where they serve fair-trade coffee blends roasted by Peeze, a local Dutch brand focused on sustainability.
Educational and Cultural Touches
One of the aspects that makes Ouwehands Zoo stand out is how it mixes fun with learning. Informational displays throughout the zoo explain the importance of biodiversity, conservation, and habitat protection. Projects like Bears in Mind have an international impact, and exhibitions highlight the zoo’s partnerships with organizations around the world. The Panda Shop is more than just a souvenir store: it’s an extension of Pandasia, with products that support conservation programs in China.
A Central Location for Exploration
Located in Rhenen, Ouwehands Zoo sits at the foot of the Grebbeberg, a hill known for its World War II history and scenic views of the surrounding countryside. This makes the zoo not only a destination in itself but also a great stop during a cultural or nature-focused trip through the Netherlands. Many visitors choose to stay at Bungalow Park ’t Eekhoornnest in Soest, which offers cozy vacation bungalows in the forest and a central location for combining Ouwehands Zoo with nearby attractions like the National Military Museum or castles in the Utrechtse Heuvelrug.
Ouwehands Dierenpark is more than just a zoo visit. It is a full-day experience where history, conservation, play, and great food come together. From giant pandas to hidden corners like Gibbon Island, every part of this park offers something new to explore.
