Novosibirsk Zoo

Located in the Zayeltsovsky District, the Novosibirsk Zoo named after Rostislav Alexandrovich Shilo is both a major tourist attraction and a world-class scientific institution. Home to around 11,000 animals representing 738 species, this expansive facility actively participates in 32 captive breeding programmes for endangered species. When you visit, you will experience a site steeped in history, tracing its origins back to a small 1933 zoological garden before officially opening on Gogol Street in 1948, and later relocating to its modern space.

A primary highlight of your journey is seeing the zoo's famous black-maned lions, identified as the closest surviving relatives of the extinct Cape lion of South Africa. You can view these impressive lions, including descendants of a lion named Simon, living outdoors year-round in large natural settings despite West Siberia's dramatic temperature extremes ranging from −49 to 36 °C (−56 to 97 °F). Beyond the terrestrial exhibits, your trip offers access to marine life at the Center of Oceanography and Marine Biology "Dolphinia," which has been part of the zoo complex since 2016.

It is an essential, highly visited stop for any traveler exploring Novosibirsk.

What to see at Novosibirsk Zoo

• Home to roughly 11,000 animals across 738 distinct species
• Features rare black-maned lions closely related to the extinct Cape lion
• Includes the Center of oceanography and marine biology "Dolphinia"
• Active participant in 32 captive breeding programs for endangered species

Visiting tips

Be sure to check out the outdoor lion enclosures to see rare black-maned lions thriving in natural settings year-round.

How long: 3-4 hours · Best time: Morning

How to get there & what’s nearby

Novosibirsk Zoo is easy to reach on Novosibirsk’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Novosibirsk Opera and Ballet Theatre and Novosibirsk State Art Museum. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Novosibirsk travel guide.