The African Plains at the Dublin Zoo

The African Plains has doubled the size of the Zoo and has created a savannah for some of the zoo's largest residents. In order to create the African Plains the Government gave the Zoo 13 hectares that had previously formed part of the Aras an Uachtaráin grounds. The site consists of a large lake, pasture land and mature woodland.

The African Plains is home to hippopotamuses, rhinos, chimpanzees, white-crowned mangabeys, lions, cheetahs, Marabou stork, Abyssinian ground hornbills, red river hogs and bongos. It also features a mixed-species exhibit with giraffes, ostriches, zebras and scimitar-horned oryxes.

The exhibits have been designed to give the animals more space and necessary enrichment. For instance the hippopotamus exhibit has a large pool with sand banks which allow the hippos to sunbathe, while in the winter they can use their individual heated indoor pool and stall. The giraffes have a large paddock with special hard standings for the winter months. The lake provides a large island for the chimpanzees, which is proving very successful in helping to build a good social group. Visitors will also see the white-crowned mangabeys on their island.

As well as catering for the animals' needs, the African Plains development also looks after the visitor. In Nakuru Village, visitors can eat at the Nakuru Restaurant or visit the 'Out of Africa' shop which sells a range of African artifacts. In addition, the 'Nakuru Safari' takes visitors on a 20 minute journey around the African Plains, with full on-board commentary.

The African Plains is an integral part of Dublin Zoo and is included in the admission to the Zoo. So do come along to the African Plains at Dublin Zoo and embark on your own African adventure!
For more information: contact the zoo