ZOO Planckendael lies on the Leuvensesteenweg near Mechelen, roughly halfway between Antwerp and Brussels, and is run by the same society as ZOO Antwerpen. Where the city zoo is compact and historic, Planckendael is spread over a large green estate, with wide enclosures designed to look like the animals’ natural surroundings and plenty of space to walk between them. Animals from different continents are grouped by region, and elephants are among the best-known residents. The park is built for a whole day, with paths and space to roam, and it rewards visitors who like to move slowly and watch rather than rush from cage to cage. If you have already seen the Antwerp zoo, this is a different kind of experience and a better fit for families who prefer open air to historic architecture.
What it is
An open-air animal park rather than a conventional city zoo. The emphasis is on spacious habitats and on seeing animals in settings that resemble where they live in the wild, and the layout encourages families to spend time at each area rather than ticking off a list.
Practical points
The address is Leuvensesteenweg 582 near Mechelen, and the park is easiest to reach by car, with public transport connections that need a little planning. Opening hours shift with the season, so check the days you intend to visit and arrive early in summer, when it is busiest. Because most of the site is outdoors, dress for the weather and bring comfortable shoes; there are covered areas and indoor houses for showers. The venue’s entry ticket can sell out on busy days, so book ahead for weekends and school holidays.
Making the most of it
Plan a full day, starting with the areas you most want to see. Plan a lunch break and take a map so that small legs do not tire early. Families with a day to spare near Antwerp can compare it with ZOO Antwerpen: the city zoo is easier to reach and combines well with Central Station and the diamond district, while Planckendael is a slower, greener outing. Pair it with a late afternoon in Mechelen’s old town if you still have energy.
What to expect
The experience
A large open-air animal park with habitats grouped by region.
Best time
Weekday mornings outside school holidays; arrive early in summer.
How long
Plan a full day, about five to six hours.
Tips
Check seasonal hours, book ahead for weekends and holidays, bring snacks and wear weatherproof clothing.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Families and animal lovers who want a full day outdoors.
- Families
- A top family pick, with space for children to roam and plenty of animals to watch.
- Couples
- Pleasant for animal-loving couples, though it is a family-oriented park.
- Pair with
- An afternoon in Mechelen’s old town, or ZOO Antwerpen on a different day.
- Time needed
- A full day.
Good questions
Where is Planckendael?+
On the Leuvensesteenweg, at number 582, near Mechelen, about halfway between Antwerp and Brussels.
Is it the same as ZOO Antwerpen?+
No, they are separate sites run by the same society. The city zoo is compact and historic, while Planckendael is a large green park.
How long should I plan?+
Allow a full day, roughly five to six hours, if you want to see most areas without rushing.
What are the opening hours?+
They vary with the season, so check the dates you plan to visit before travelling.
Is it easy to reach without a car?+
It is easiest by car, but public transport connections exist and need a little planning.
