Bursa Zoo is an EAZA member institution operating in Soğanlı since 1998, housing over 1,000 animals in a 206,600 square meter area. The entrance fee is 70 TL for adults and 30 TL for students, with a 50% discount applied on Wednesdays.
Operated by Bursa Metropolitan Municipality, Bursa Zoo opened its doors to visitors on November 10, 1998. Located in Soğanlı Neighborhood, on the İzmir-Istanbul road, the zoo spans approximately 206,600 square meters, making it one of Turkey's largest and best-organized zoos. Its membership in the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA) also indicates that international standards for animal care and conservation programs are being implemented.
The zoo features a variety of animals such as bears, wolves, hyenas, lions, leopards, crocodiles, rhinos, birds of prey, and waterfowl. The animal enclosures are designed to resemble natural living conditions, allowing visitors to observe the animals in spacious and comfortable environments. Welcoming between 100,000 and 150,000 visitors annually, the zoo appeals to a wide audience, from families with children to nature photographers.
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Guide's Note
Bursa Zoo is a popular destination for visitors of all ages, set in a large area. The diversity of animals is one of its main highlights; many visitors note that they can see many species together here. The entrance fee is reported as 70 TL for adults and 30 TL for students; a 50% discounted "public day" is applied on Wednesdays. Practical information shared by visitors also includes a parking fee of 115 TL and the possibility of picnicking in the surrounding area.
Positive impressions regarding animal care and cleanliness stand out; multiple visitors have observed that the animals' food and water needs are regularly met and their living spaces are kept clean. It is also shared that some animals do not come out in hot weather; therefore, visiting in the evening hours might be more productive. It has also been noted that toilet services are free and there is a cafe within the area.
- Direction signs: At least one visitor stated that the internal signage was insufficient.
- Animal visibility: In summer, especially during hot hours, some animals are reported not to leave their enclosures; going early in the morning or late in the evening might yield better results.
- Living conditions: While one visitor expressed satisfaction with the general care, an expectation for further improvement in conditions was also voiced.
Best Time to Visit
The most suitable time to visit Bursa Zoo is during the spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) months. During these seasons, the weather is neither too hot nor too cold; both you and the animals will have a more enjoyable time. In summer, when temperatures rise during midday, most animals retreat to shaded areas, so visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon will be more productive.
The zoo can be quite crowded on weekends and school holidays. For a quieter visit, we recommend choosing weekdays. Additionally, since a fifty percent discount on entrance fees is applied on Wednesdays as part of the public day, early Wednesday mornings are an ideal option for those on a budget.
How to Get to Bursa Zoo?
Reaching the zoo by public transport is quite easy. Bus numbers 15 and 15/E departing from the city center go directly to the ticket office. From Kent Meydanı, you can take minibuses marked Soğanlı-Botanic Park and get off within walking distance.
If you are coming by private car, there is a parking area near the zoo. Since the zoo is located in Soğanlı Neighborhood on the İzmir-Istanbul highway route, you can search for Bursa Hayvanat Bahçesi or Bursa Zoo in navigation applications.
Suggested Route and Visiting Tips
Since the zoo spans an area of approximately 206,600 square meters, we recommend checking the map board at the entrance before starting your tour. This way, you can plan which sections you want to prioritize seeing.
It is logical to start with the large cats section, such as lions and leopards, in the morning; animals are more active during these hours. Afterwards, you can proceed to the rhino, crocodile, and waterfowl sections. Due to the spacious enclosures, it may take some time to locate certain animals; this actually indicates how close to natural habitats the environment is. Especially for families with children, it is recommended to include the walking trails and horse riding area in the program.
Best Spots for Photography
Bursa Zoo is a very productive location for photography enthusiasts, thanks to its spacious and natural-looking enclosures. The large cat enclosures (lion, leopard) offer impressive shots in the morning light. The area around the pond where waterfowl are found is perfect for reflection photography.
If you use a long-focus lens, you can capture the animals' natural behaviors much more clearly. Keep in mind that flash photography can disturb animals and may be prohibited by zoo rules. The light shortly after sunrise, known as the golden hour, coincides with opening hours, making it a great advantage for photographers to be among the first visitors to the zoo.
Budget Planning
Bursa Zoo is a place that can be visited with a reasonable entrance fee compared to similar facilities in Turkey. According to the current tariff, adult admission is 70 TL, and student admission is 30 TL, and payment can be made with Bursa Kart. A fifty percent discount is applied on Wednesdays, making this day advantageous for those who want to manage their budget well. We recommend checking the official website before your visit, as prices may be updated over time.
It would be beneficial to research in advance whether there are cafe or buffet services within the zoo, especially for families with children. Bringing your own snacks can be both an economical and practical choice.
Things to Know Before Your Visit
Remember that the ticket office closes at 17:30, and the zoo remains open until 18:30. This means you must enter by 17:30 at the latest; otherwise, you will not be admitted. Especially in summer, when days are long, it can be easy to overlook this time.
Since the zoo spans a very large area, it is important to choose comfortable walking shoes. Stroller and wheelchair access is suitable for families with children. Standing close to animal enclosures, feeding animals, and taking flash photographs are prohibited; adhering to these rules is critical for both your safety and the animals'. You can review the visitor rules on the boards located at the zoo entrance.
General Information About the Zoo
Bursa Zoo opened on November 10, 1998 and is operated by Bursa Metropolitan Municipality. As a member of the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA), the zoo is obliged to comply with international animal welfare standards. This membership means not only exhibition but also participation in programs for the conservation of endangered species.
More than a thousand animals belonging to over 137 species live in the zoo, which is built on an area of 206,600 square meters. Although the spacious and natural habitat-like design of the enclosures can sometimes make it difficult to find the animals, this is considered a positive feature by visitors. The zoo welcomes approximately 100,000–150,000 visitors annually.
FAQ
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