Haifa Zoo – home to more than 100 types of animals.
Reptiles, birds, predators, grass eaters are the tenants of e Haifa zoo, serving as a warm home to more than 100 types of animals, some of them rare species.
From a petting farm to a zoo
The Haifa Zoo began its way as a small petting farm, founded by Pinchas Cohen in 1949, one of the first biology teachers in town. The small corner which gradually filled up turned over the years into what is known today as the Haifa Educational Zoo. Haifa Zoo is located adjacent to Gan Ha’em, and you may find in it also a biological institute, a botanic garden and a prehistory museum all located within the garden area.
More than 100 types of animals reside permanently in the Haifa Zoo area. Familiar animals such as bears, wolves, hyenas and monkeys are joined by more rare animals among them the Bengali Tigris, the only one of its kind in the country. Recently, Haifa Zoo has become member of the Zoo International Organization EAZA, which will probably lead to the arrival of additional rare animals from other zoos in the world, as part of the endeavor for the preservation and rescue of animals and species at risk of extinction.
About animals, plants and … people
Within Haifa Zoo, which is considered an attraction drawing many visitors of all ages, one may find, as said, additional attractions. A petting zoo, considered to be a center of attraction for children, who are excited by the intriguing encounter with animals, among them a spotted deer (Bambi), rabbits and hamsters, reptiles and snakes. The children do not only pet the friendly animals but can also hold some of them and even take photos with them.
Alongside the animals that are kept in specious and designed cages, you can also be impressed by “open displays” of water birds, the lemurs and various birds of prey. These exhibits allow you to move freely in the animal’s natural environment and watch them without any partitions. During the summer months and sometimes during the Holidays, Haifa Zoo runs guided tours at night called “Night Safari”. In the framework of the night tours you can enjoy a special and different experience than the one you may experience during the day hours, and learn about what is going on in the animal cages after dark. During the summer months, young visitors may also enjoy shows and children’s activities.
The Botanic Garden, located in the center of the Zoo, contains dozens of species of bushes and trees comprising together Israel’s unique flora in general and the Crest of the Carmel in particular. In addition, the Prehistory Museum operates in the garden area, revealing to us the history of man in the Carmel habitat along thousands of years.
Open for visitors
Haifa Zoo is open for visitor throughout the year excluding Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement), Yom HaShoah (Holocaust and Heroism Remembrance Day), and Yom HaZikaron (Israel Fallen and victims of Terrorism Remembrance Day). Opening hours change as said according to seasons and Holidays, therefore it is recommended to be updated before arriving. In the garden you may find shaded sitting corners, tables, Kiosks and drinking fountains. For people who find it hard to walk, the Zoo offers and open vehicle called “Gan Nua” which drives the visitors within the Zoo.
Reaching the Zoo
The central location of Haifa Zoo, adjacent to Gan Ha’em in the heart of Carmel Center, allows easy access to it, even without a private car. The Carmelit Gan Ha’em Station is located just a few steps from the Zoo entrance. 350 animals divided into 100 different types of animals await you within a walking distance from the Carmelit. Come and enjoy an educational and enjoyable experience for the entire family.