Tierpark Nordhorn

The "family zoo in the green" welcomes about half a million visitors annually, making it one of the most popular day trip destinations in Grafschaft Bentheim. It lies right on the Dutch border. Spread over 12 hectares, Tierpark Nordhorn is home to more than 2,500 animals across 100 different species. Besides family-friendly prices, the zoo offers numerous attractions for both young and old, as well as a zoo school.

To bring visitors as close as possible to the animals, many enclosures in Nordhorn are designed for walking through. Of course, this isn’t possible with every species, but it is now the case in the owl tundra, vulture cliff, coastal aviary, with the Bennett's kangaroos, alpacas and maras, sika deer, two petting zoos, the feathered Australians, and recently with the spacious enclosure for the German Giants. The meerkat enclosure and the show feeding kitchen also give you an exciting insight into the animal kingdom!

Through informational feedings, visitors get closer to sea lions, white-faced capuchin monkeys, griffon vultures, and porcupines. The zoo’s largest animal is the North American wood bison, which is its emblem. The herd can be seen in the entrance area together with the peccaries in a large enclosure.

Another distinctive feature of the Tierpark is the "Naturpfad Vechteaue" nature trail. Here children and teenagers learn about the secrets of animals and nature through educational games and informational signs. Following the stilted adventure trail through the beautiful floodplain forest habitat by the old arm of the Vechte River leads you to the historic Vechtehof, which is part of the lovely Vechtewelt. This original farm, more than 100 years old, with an authentic farmer’s garden, houses many old and partly highly endangered domestic animal breeds. A major attraction is the petting zoo with piglets of the colorful Bentheim pigs.

Adjacent to the Vechtehof is the cozy inn "De Malle Jan." Visitors are treated to homemade cakes and pies in this historic eatery. At the village butcher’s, you can purchase tasty treats and gift baskets filled with regional products.

In the center of the Tierpark is another dining option. The cafeteria’s large sun terrace borders directly on the adventure playground and petting zoo. Right next to the cafeteria is "Max Adventure Land," an indoor covered play area offering excellent playtime opportunities for many children, even in unstable weather or cooler temperatures.