Parc animalier de la Bâtie
A free, family-friendly wildlife park in Geneva's Bois de la Bâtie, showcasing Swiss breeds and offering city views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, calmer atmosphere
Parc animalier de la Bâtie
Best Time
Fewer crowds, calmer atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A free, family-friendly wildlife park in Geneva's Bois de la Bâtie, showcasing Swiss breeds and offering city views.
"A great little animal park located in a public park just outside of Geneva city centre. Free entry!"
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy this fantastic wildlife park without spending a dime. Perfect for families on a budget!
⚠️ Watch for Aggressive Crows
Be cautious of the 'Pie Bavarde' (Hooded Crow); they can be aggressive and have sharp claws.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Diverse Animal Encounters
Various enclosures
See peacocks, ducks, wild boar, goats, and unique Swiss breeds like the chèvre-paon.
Geneva Views
Higher points in the park
Enjoy a lovely viewpoint overlooking the city of Geneva.
Playgrounds & Relaxation
Adjacent park areas
Spacious areas with playgrounds for kids and benches for a relaxing break.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Family Fun
Animal Welfare Concerns
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy this fantastic wildlife park without spending a dime. Perfect for families on a budget!
⚠️ Watch for Aggressive Crows
Be cautious of the 'Pie Bavarde' (Hooded Crow); they can be aggressive and have sharp claws.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
The park is part of a larger forest area, so wear comfy shoes for exploring.
⏰ Check Opening Hours
The park is typically open Tuesday to Sunday, from 9 AM to 4 PM. +1
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy this fantastic wildlife park without spending a dime. Perfect for families on a budget!
⚠️ Watch for Aggressive Crows
Be cautious of the 'Pie Bavarde' (Hooded Crow); they can be aggressive and have sharp claws.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
The park is part of a larger forest area, so wear comfy shoes for exploring.
⏰ Check Opening Hours
The park is typically open Tuesday to Sunday, from 9 AM to 4 PM. +1
📸 Great Photo Ops
Capture beautiful moments with animals and scenic Geneva views.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Parc animalier de la Bâtie for its free entry and suitability for families, offering a pleasant way to see various animals and enjoy views of Geneva. However, some concerns have been raised regarding the cleanliness of water for certain animals and the space provided in some enclosures.
"Cool park, great for kids, lovely viewpoint on Geneve."
Riccardo Testoni
"I have visited this animal park several time, it's free entry and you can see a few types of animals especially peacock, ducks, wild boar, goats and birds. Please be careful of "Pie Bavarde", one type of crow. It's aggressive and the claw is very sharp. My finger was hurt as my camera position was too close even though it was in the cage."
Winson Lee
"A great little animal park located in a public park just outside of Geneva city centre. Free entry, for a 30-60 minute activity. A short walk to the tram and bus stops to get to and from the city centre."
Rob Stanford
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The park is easily accessible by public transport. It's a short walk from tram and bus stops, making it convenient to reach from Geneva city center.
While specific parking details aren't widely shared, it's part of a larger public park, suggesting potential parking areas nearby. Public transport is a recommended alternative.
The park is located just a short distance from the city center, offering a tranquil escape into nature without a long journey.
As it's within a large urban forest, cycling is likely a pleasant option, with paths available in the Bois de la Bâtie.
Being a public park with animal enclosures, paths are generally accessible for strollers, though some natural terrain might be present.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The most appealing aspect is that entry to the animal park is completely free!
The park is generally open from Tuesday to Sunday, starting at 9:00 AM. Closing times are typically around 4:00 PM, but it's always good to verify. +1
No advance booking is required as the park offers free admission. You can visit spontaneously during its operating hours.
Information on special events or guided tours is not widely publicized. It's best to check local listings or the park's official channels if available.
Opening hours on public holidays can vary. It's advisable to check for specific holiday schedules before your visit.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can see a variety of animals including peacocks, ducks, wild boar, goats, and various birds. It also features endangered Swiss breeds like the chèvre-paon and mouton miroir.
A visit typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes, making it a perfect short activity or part of a larger outing in the park.
As part of a larger public park, you can expect amenities like restrooms and picnic spots, ideal for a family day out.
Absolutely! It's a great place for kids to see animals up close and enjoy the playgrounds within the larger Bois de la Bâtie.
A leisurely walk is the best way to see the animals and enjoy the surroundings. Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing some walking.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for areas with good natural light and clear views of the animals. The viewpoints overlooking Geneva also offer great photographic opportunities.
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed. However, always be mindful of animal welfare and avoid disturbing them.
A camera with a decent zoom lens is helpful for capturing animal details. A wide-angle lens can be useful for landscape shots of the park and Geneva.
While you can photograph them, be extremely cautious and maintain a safe distance, as they have been known to be aggressive.
Drone usage is typically restricted in public parks and near wildlife to avoid disturbing animals. It's best to assume drones are not permitted.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a great place for a short, engaging activity that won't tire out younger children. The accessible paths make it easy to navigate with strollers, and the overall atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming for families. Just be mindful of the 'Pie Bavarde' crows, as they can be a bit bold!
💰 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with a picnic in the surrounding parkland to save even more on food. Its proximity to public transport also means you can save on transportation costs if you're relying on buses and trams.
🚶♀️ Nature Lovers & Casual Strollers
You can enjoy the fresh air, observe the animals at your own pace, and even take in panoramic views of Geneva. It's an ideal spot for a relaxed afternoon, offering a gentle way to connect with the outdoors without venturing too far from the city. The variety of birds and other animals adds an element of discovery to your walk.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Bois de la Bâtie
The park's layout encourages exploration, with walking paths winding through the trees. It's a place where locals come to unwind, exercise, and connect with nature. The combination of recreational facilities and the tranquil forest environment makes the Bois de la Bâtie a cherished spot in Geneva.
Beyond the animal park, the Bois de la Bâtie offers a peaceful retreat from the city bustle. Its size and diverse offerings ensure there's something for everyone, whether you're seeking active pursuits or a quiet moment amidst nature. The presence of the animal park adds a unique educational and entertaining element to this already rich urban oasis.
Focus on Swiss Breeds
These specific breeds represent a part of Switzerland's agricultural heritage and natural history. By showcasing them, the park educates the public about the importance of protecting these less common animals. It provides an educational experience that goes beyond simply observing animals, fostering an appreciation for conservation efforts.
The presence of these unique Swiss breeds makes the Parc animalier de la Bâtie a valuable educational resource. It offers a chance to learn about and connect with the specific fauna of the region, contributing to a deeper understanding of local wildlife and conservation challenges.
Visitor Perspectives on Animal Welfare
These comments, while not universally shared, indicate a point of consideration for potential visitors. The park operates on a public budget, which may present challenges in maintaining optimal conditions for all inhabitants. It's a perspective that adds nuance to the overall visitor experience.
Understanding these viewpoints can help visitors approach their visit with a balanced perspective. While the park offers a valuable free resource for animal observation and education, awareness of these welfare concerns is part of a comprehensive understanding of the attraction.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit