Fall time in Izmir truly blossoms around October and lasts until December. Cooler weather beckons locals and tourist alike to make the trip out to the Izmir Zoo a.k.a Izmir Doğal Yaşam Parkı. It first opened on 18 acres of land for the International and Cultural Fair in 1937. In 2008, it gained the 425 acres area that now make up Turkey’s first zoo and wildlife park which hosts over 1500 species of animals and 250 species of plants.
Favorite animals include the rhino and camels, but the patagonian mara can easily steal the show. Other animals that are quite common in America but not in Turkey, like deer and squirrels, can also be found at the Izmir zoo. If zoo-goers need a break for snacks or lunch, a little cafe provides simple cheese toast, muffins, snacks, and drinks.
Cost:
For only 2 liras for students and 5 lira for everyone else, zoo goers are able to access the whole zoo and the petting area. Children under the age of 6 are free of charge.
When to go:
If possible, visit the zoo in the early Spring or late fall to enjoy the activities in cooler conditions. Saturday and Sunday are flooded with locals, but the mornings offer a smaller crowd since most Turks are just starting to eat breakfast around 10 AM. School groups come on Wednesdays and Friday. Monday, Tuesday and Thursday offer the smallest crowds and a less competitive atmosphere. The zoo is normally open from 9:00 to 17:00, but is open until 18:00 in the fall. Double check the website for closing times as the seasons change.
What to bring:
- Camera
- Sunscreen
- Stroller for smaller children
- Snacks and water: Alternatively, buy something to eat and drink at the entrance. The park is very large and there are not many stalls selling food or water.
- Grab a map at the entrance so you don’t get lost!
Photo by Catie Funk
How to get there:
For most locals, the zoo is extremely out of the way. The easiest way to get to the zoo is to take the 777 bus which starts at the Karsıyaka Iskelesi and drops you off at the door of the zoo. Another option is to take the metro to Halıli stop, walk to the bus station and hop on the 771 to Sasali and get off at the entrance to the car park of the zoo. For the adventurous spirit, rent a bike or ride your own out to the zoo via the 15 km bike path by the coast.
More info via the website of Izmir Zoo and Wildlife Park.
Address: Izmir Zoo or Izmir Doğal Yaşam Parkı is located in Sasalı, Çiğli, Izmir, Turkey. Telephone: 0232 327 30 16
What about you? Do you love the zoo? What is the best zoo out there? Would you go to a zoo without kids? Leave your comments below!
All images courtesy of the author.
