Pafos Zoo is the best rainy-day and family-day option in the Paphos area, and the sort of place children remember long after the mosaics have blurred together. It lies in the hills a short drive inland from the coast, set among gardens, and is best known for its bird collection, which is large and varied, from small tropical species to eagles, owls and vultures. Free-flying bird shows are a highlight, with parrots and birds of prey swooping over the audience, and there are daily animal presentations where keepers talk about the animals and explain the conservation side of the work. Beyond the birds the zoo keeps a wide range of animals, including big cats, primates, reptiles and small mammals, arranged along shaded paths with plenty of places to sit. There are aviaries you can walk through, a reptile house, and in many seasons the chance to meet and feed some of the gentler animals under staff supervision. It is a manageable size, which means you can see most of it in a morning or afternoon without exhausting little legs, and the café and picnic spots make it easy to stay for lunch. If you are travelling with children, it is a welcome change of pace from archaeological sites.
How it works
The zoo sells tickets at the entrance, and you can also reserve a ticket in advance for your date. There is parking on site, and a taxi from Paphos takes around fifteen to twenty minutes. Opening hours change with the season, with longer days in summer, so check the schedule for your date.
Shows and feeding talks run at set times through the day, and it is worth looking at the timetable on arrival and planning your route around the ones that interest you most, since the free-flying bird show is the main draw.
What to expect
Paths wind through the gardens past enclosures of varying size, and the experience is more intimate than a big-city zoo, with animals often close to the fence. The aviaries are the heart of the visit, and walking through the larger ones lets you stand among free-moving birds.
Keepers run talks and handling sessions, and children can usually get close to some of the smaller animals. Facilities include toilets, a café and a gift shop. Paths are mostly level but some stretches are sloped, so a pushchair works but may need a little effort on the hills.
Making the most of it
Arrive at opening time in summer to see the animals when they are most active and before the heat builds, and bring water, hats and sun cream. In cooler months the middle of the day is pleasant. Plan around the show times, wear comfortable shoes and keep a small amount of change for animal food if it is on offer.
Respect the signs and the keepers’ instructions around the animals. The zoo combines well with a quiet afternoon at the pool afterwards, and pairs naturally with a visit to the Paphos harbour or the Tombs of the Kings on a day with older children.
If you are staying for several days, consider visiting early in your trip so that children have something to look forward to, and keep the afternoon free for the pool. The zoo is a working conservation and education centre, so a small part of what you pay supports animal care, and the keepers are happy to answer questions during the talks.
What to expect
The experience
A self-guided walk through gardens and aviaries with scheduled bird shows and animal talks.
Best time
Opening time in summer, or midday in the cooler months, planned around the show times.
How long
Around two to three hours for most visitors.
Tips
Check the show timetable on arrival, bring water and a hat, and wear comfortable shoes.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Families with young children and animal lovers, particularly anyone drawn to birds.
- Families
- One of the best family stops in the area, with shows, close encounters and plenty of shade.
- Couples
- Less of a couples’ outing, though bird lovers will enjoy the aviaries and the free-flying shows.
- Pair with
- A relaxed afternoon at the Olympic Lagoon or Annabelle pool, or a stroll along Paphos harbour.
- Time needed
- Half a day including the drive.
Good questions
What is Pafos Zoo best known for?+
Its large bird collection and the free-flying bird shows, along with big cats, primates and reptiles in a garden setting.
How far is it from Paphos town?+
It lies inland in the hills, around fifteen to twenty minutes by car or taxi from the town centre.
Is it suitable for toddlers?+
Yes, the paths are mostly level and there is shade, though some slopes can be tiring for a pushchair.
Are there animal shows?+
Yes, bird and animal presentations run at set times through the day. Check the timetable when you arrive.
Can I bring a picnic?+
There are picnic areas and a café, so you can do either. Take water in warmer months.
