BAR — Attraction in Kasnazan Subdistrict

ERBIL, Kurdistan Region — Erbil Zoo opened its doors to visitors on Friday.

The 50-acre facility, near Kasnazan on the Erbil-Koya road is home to more than 180 different species of animals and birds. A three-phase plan will also see equestrian facilites and a veterinary hospital built on the premises.

Dilan Salam is a Kurdish tourist who visited the zoo on its opening day.

“The project has world standards. I see no difference between this and [other] zoos in the world," she told Rudaw.

Zoos in the Kurdistan Region have previously drawn ire from vets and animal rights activists, who described animals as living in a "tragic state."

In 2010, Erbil's privately-owned Gilkand Zoo was named by the US-based Global Post newspaper as one of the...

Erbil Zoo is a captivating destination, offering a wide array of wildlife for all ages to enjoy. With over 150 species, it's a rich tapestry of biodiversity. The park's spacious layout and well-maintained enclosures create a comfortable environment for the animals. Visitors can observe everything from majestic big cats to colorful birds. For families, it's an educational experience as kids can learn about different species and conservation efforts. The zoo also hosts various events, making it an engaging outing. While the overall experience is positive, there is room for improvement in terms of facilities and additional educational resources. Nonetheless, Erbil Zoo is a notable place to connect with nature and appreciate the beauty of diverse...

Honestly, the place is beautiful, but it feels like a bit of a rip-off.

You have to pay $18 just to enter with your car. Then, for every enclosed area inside, there’s an extra $2 charge per person.

If you don’t have a car, you’re required to rent a small vehicle, which costs $10 for just 30 minutes.

There are no clear signs or directions, so it’s hard to know where to go or what to see.

While it’s organized like streets, some sidewalks are so narrow that you’re forced to walk on the main road, which doesn’t feel very safe.

The restrooms were very dirty and had no water available.

As for the animals, there weren’t many—I didn’t see giraffes, elephants, or anything close to a “unicorn.”

Overall, I left disappointed with...