Tbilisi Zoo — Attraction in Tbilisi

Tbilisi Zoo: A Resilient Urban Oasis in the Heart of Georgia's Capital

Located in the center of Tbilisi, the Tbilisi Zoo is the oldest and largest zoological park in Georgia, offering visitors a unique combination of wildlife, education, and history. Founded in 1927, the zoo has faced numerous challenges over the years, including the devastating flood of 2015. Yet it continues to operate as an important destination for families, tourists, and wildlife lovers in the Georgian capital.

A Zoo with a Story of Survival

One of the most defining moments in the zoo’s recent history was the June 2015 flood, which not only caused tragic loss of life and infrastructure across the city but also heavily damaged the zoo. Many animals were lost, some escaped, and the incident drew global attention. Since then, the Tbilisi Zoo has been slowly recovering and has become a symbol of resilience for the city.

Plans are underway to relocate and rebuild the zoo in a more suitable and safer location—near the Tbilisi Sea—to provide better conditions for the animals and a more immersive experience for visitors. While these plans progress, the current zoo still remains open and active.

What You Can See

Though smaller than many European zoos, Tbilisi Zoo is home to over 200 species of animals, including:

Lions, tigers, bears, and leopards

A variety of monkeys and primates

Reptiles, including snakes, crocodiles, and turtles

An impressive aviary with exotic birds like parrots and peacocks

Hoofed animals such as deer, goats, and zebras

The zoo’s enclosures vary in quality, as some areas have been modernized while others are still in need of renovation. However, efforts are continuously being made to improve animal welfare and overall conditions.

Family-Friendly Environment

Tbilisi Zoo is especially popular with local families and school groups. It features:

A children’s petting area where kids can interact with domesticated animals like goats and rabbits

Shaded walking paths and resting areas

Snack bars and kiosks

Small playgrounds for children

While not a world-class zoo yet, it still serves as an educational space for young visitors and a peaceful retreat from the city's hustle.

Location and Accessibility

The zoo is conveniently located near Heroes Square and close to the Tbilisi Concert Hall, making it easy to reach by metro, bus, or taxi. Entry is affordable, with lower ticket prices compared to Western European zoos, making it accessible for most visitors.

Tips for Visitors

Opening Hours: Usually open daily, but check local listings or the official page for seasonal changes or maintenance closures.

Language: Most signage is in Georgian and English.

Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn are ideal—mild weather and fewer crowds.

Photography: Allowed, but avoid flash photography in enclosed spaces.

Final Thoughts

Tbilisi Zoo may not rival the world’s most modern zoos in size or luxury, but it offers a heartfelt, historical experience and a glimpse into Georgia’s ongoing commitment to animal conservation and urban renewal. It’s a place of hope, recovery, and childhood memories for many locals.

Whether you’re visiting with children, curious about animals, or simply want to support a site that’s rebuilding with strength and vision, Tbilisi Zoo deserves a short but meaningful stop on your journey through this...

📃Description of the area:

———————— It is one of the most popular places in Tbilisi.

The diversity of wildlife attracts children in particular, especially since there are children's attractions in the zoo.

For zoo lovers, the zoo is really a very interesting place, here you will be able to get better acquainted with the animal world, their habits, see exotic species.

There is also an terrarium in the park, where you can meet a variety of amazing fish or reptiles.

Most of the species living in the Tbilisi Zoo are already small in number in the wild.

There are about 300 species of animals, including: goat, niamor, birch, deer, roe deer, Colchis pheasant, Caucasian grouse, Caucasian ostrich, white rhino, white tigers, white lions, Ussurian tiger, wild African dogs and more.

The zoo resumed work on September 13, three months after the disaster.

In 2007, the first sea aquarium in the Caucasus was opened at the Tbilisi Zoo.

Currently, the following departments operate at the Tbilisi Zoo: Predators and Primate-Rodents, Birds, Ungulates, Exotarium (Reptiles, Amphibians and Pisces) and Children's Education Center.

Scientific-research work was carried out in Tbilisi Zoological Park by Jandieri, m. Rcheulishvili, D. Agladze, N. Badriashvili, S. Erkomaishvili, Ts. Chelidze and others.

In 1935 under the leadership and guidance of Jandieri, a biological station was added to the zoo, which was later transferred to TSU.

Initially, the following sections were considered: Caucasian or Local Studies, Fauna of the former USSR, Exotic, Agricultural Animals, and others.

The first director of the zoo, became G.A. Hanson.

About 70 hectares of land in the valley of the river Vere have been allocated for the arrangement of the zoo.

Tbilisi Zoo was founded in 1927. ————————

🇬🇪 🦁 🇬🇪 Thanks For...

Tbilisi Zoo is a wonderful place to visit if you’re in Georgia’s capital. Despite its modest size, it offers a surprisingly rich and enjoyable experience. One of the first things you’ll notice is how beautiful and well-maintained the surroundings are. The lush greenery, clean pathways, and thoughtful design create a relaxing atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for families, couples, or solo travelers.

What makes Tbilisi Zoo even more attractive is its affordable entrance fee. It’s very cheap compared to many other zoos around the world, which makes it accessible for everyone. Despite the low cost, the zoo houses a wide variety of animals, from exotic birds and reptiles to lions, bears, and playful monkeys. Each enclosure is designed to give visitors a good view of the animals while still prioritizing their welfare.

The zoo is also educational, offering information about the animals and their natural habitats, which makes it a great experience for kids and adults alike. Whether you’re an animal lover or simply looking for a peaceful escape in the city, Tbilisi Zoo is definitely worth a visit. It’s a hidden gem that combines beauty, affordability, and the joy of seeing many amazing...