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Jerusalem Biblical Zoo 🇮🇱

Attraction · Israel

CountryIsrael Best timeDaytime TypeAttraction
© Yoninah / CC BY-SA 3.0

Located in Jerusalem's Malha valley, the Tisch Family Biblical Zoo—popularly known as the Jerusalem Biblical Zoo—offers you a unique look at wildlife, featuring a famous Afro-Asiatic collection highlighting animals described in the Hebrew Bible alongside endangered species from around the world. Spanning 25 hectares across two main levels, the park is beautifully landscaped with native Israeli flora mentioned in Scriptures. As you explore, you will discover open-air animal exhibits separated by natural moats and glass barriers rather than traditional bars.

Key highlights include an artificial lake fed by waterfalls starting at "Moses' Rock," complete with monkey islands, as well as a children's zoo where kids can pet pygmy goats, sheep, rabbits, and guinea pigs. Walk through Lemur Land, visit the Wet Side Story aquatic exhibit, or admire unique artwork like 23 phantasmagorical climbing sculptures by Niki de Saint Phalle and Mario Botta's underground Noah's Ark sculpture. At the western end of the park, step into a massive two-story wooden visitor center shaped like Noah's Ark, housing an art gallery, gift shop, and interactive computer stations.

Whether you ride the circular motorized train or wander the tree-lined paths, this zoo provides a memorable experience.

What to see at Jerusalem Biblical Zoo

  • Boat-shaped wooden visitor center designed to resemble Noah's Ark
  • Artificial lake fed by waterfalls starting at Moses' Rock, featuring monkey islands
  • Interactive animal contact areas including Lemur Land and a children's petting zoo
  • Sculpture garden featuring 23 phantasmagorical animal climbing toys by Niki de Saint Phalle
  • Motorized train connecting the park's upper and lower levels along a circular route

Visiting tips

Board the circular motorized train for convenient travel between the upper and lower levels, which is fully wheelchair-accessible.

How long: Half day · Best time: Daytime

How to get there & what’s nearby

Jerusalem Biblical Zoo is easy to reach on Jerusalem’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Tower of David and Walls of Jerusalem. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Jerusalem travel guide.

Plan your trip

See the full Jerusalem travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.