An adventure report from the spring weekend with lots of animal highlights: By Iryna Kushko and Thomas Wolf
The first really nice day of spring attracted thousands of visitors to Leipzig Zoo last Saturday - including us. Even on the way there, it became clear that we weren't the only ones with this idea. There was already a long queue of cars outside the parking garage, and at the zoo entrance it was also a case of queuing up and waiting. But the anticipation prevailed - after all, a whole day full of animal experiences, exotic nature and exciting insights into foreign habitats awaited us inside.
Our first port of call: Gondwanaland - a huge tropical hall with a jungle climate all year round. As soon as we entered, the warm, humid air hit us and the greenery overwhelmed our senses. Gondwanaland impresses not only with its size and the wealth of species, but above all with its depth of experience. You can discover animals up close along winding jungle paths, past ferns and palm trees. On the treetop path, you can experience the scenery from above, almost like a bird above the rainforest. The boat trip on the Gamanil was particularly fascinating for us: for 2.50 euros per adult, you are first taken through a dark tunnel - a short journey through the history of the earth with serious tones about the role of humans in nature - before the boat opens up into the tropical world. A little vacation moment in the middle of Saxony.
Boat trip in Gondwanaland on 12.4.2024 (Video: Thomas Wolf)
A special moment: In the South America world, an iguana had presented itself particularly photogenically on a branch - the crowd of people around it was correspondingly large. The sloths, giant otters, tamarins and ocelots were also in a great spring mood. There was something to see, marvel at and learn everywhere.
After around two hours, we continued on to Pongoland, Leipzig Zoo's unique great ape enclosure. Gorillas, chimpanzees, orangutans and bonobos live here in near-natural habitats. Particularly funny: two chimpanzees plucked flowers and grass, sat on a high perch and appeared to be watching the visitors in a relaxed manner - an almost human moment. Pongoland also has a lot to offer technically: For 7.50 euros, brave visitors could immerse themselves in the world of gorillas using VR goggles - the crowds were huge and they were carefully disinfected after each run.
Gorilla Trek at Leipzig Zoo. VR experience for 7.50 euros per adult. (Image: Thomas Wolf)
Another highlight for us were the elephants, who were very close to their watering hole. The sight of the young animals playing curiously on the bank, splashing around with their trunks and visibly enjoying themselves was particularly beautiful. The Asian elephants live in the so-called Ganesha Mandir elephant temple - a spacious, naturally designed facility with indoor and outdoor areas. The combination of movement, proximity to water and social interaction within the herd makes this area a special experience. Those with a little patience will be rewarded with very special moments here.
Elephant cows with cubs at the water, from 12.4.2024 (Video: Thomas Wolf)
After that, we were drawn to Africa World, where we were particularly looking forward to seeing the lions. She showed herself majestically, while he had obviously preferred a quieter spot. The huge grounds are home to many other African animals - a walk through savannah atmosphere in the middle of Saxony.
In the middle of Africa World, after about 3.5 hours of walking, a culinary highlight awaited us: the Kiwara Lodge. It is the perfect place for a break - with coffee, cake or hearty snacks. From the outdoor balcony, you have a direct view of giraffes, zebras and antelopes wandering peacefully across the grounds - there is hardly a better way to spend a coffee break.
Finally, we visited my personal favorites: the meerkats. As soon as we arrived, they were already standing upright in the sun, as if they were enjoying spring themselves. Their group cohesion, their alert nature and their curiosity simply make them crowd pleasers.
Meerkats at Leipzig Zoo on 12.4.2024 (Video: Thomas Wolf)
After 4.5 hours at Leipzig Zoo, we had the feeling that we hadn't seen everything. The zoo is large, rich in detail and designed to make you want to linger. There are always new perspectives and little surprises. One thing is certain: we'll be back. At the latest in 2026, when a new adventure area opens with Tierra del Fuego.
