La Barben Zoo (Zoo de la Barben)
One of France’s largest and most popular zoos, La Barben Zoo (Zoo de la Barben), located in Provence, has been a popular attraction for families since it opened in the early 1970s. Learn about the more than 650 animals who live at the zoo, from the lions, rhinos, elephants, and giraffes to hundreds of rare species.
The Basics
Stretch your legs and take in the scenic Provence landscape. The zoo’s six miles (nine kilometers) of walking trails covers a wide swath of land home to hundreds of exotic animal species. The zoo also pursues various conservation efforts and scientific research.
Plan a minimum of 2–4 hours for your visit, though animal lovers may find it possible to spend the entire day on site. For a seamless visiting experience, book tickets to La Barben Zoo online in advance of your travels.
Things to Know Before You Go
La Barben Zoo is accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.
Children under age 3 visit for free, and discounted rates are available for disabled visitors and students.
Pets, bicycles, and scooters are forbidden within the zoo grounds; mobility scooters are available to rent.
The zoo operates a café, and a playground and picnic areas are also available.
Guided group zoo tours can be booked two days in advance for a fee.
A zoo shop sells toys, clothing, gifts, and other themed merchandise.
How to Get There
La Barben Zoo is located just 14 miles (22 kilometers) from the local hub of Aix-en-Provence, and is 25 miles (41 kilometers) from Marseille, the largest city in the area. During the spring, summer, and November school holidays, pick up bus service to the zoo from Salon de Provence and Pelissanne. Otherwise, traveling by taxi or car is the best option. Parking is free on site.
Trip ideas
When to Get There
La Barben Zoo is open every day of the year, including public holidays. From November–February, the zoo is open from 10am–5:30pm; from March–June and September–October, the zoo is open from 10am–6pm; and from July–August the zoo is open from 9:30am–7pm. Ticket offices shut one hour before closing time.
The Mini Train
The zoo’s mini train provides a shuttle service from the zoo entrance to the center of the grounds. The train runs daily during French school holidays, as well as on Wednesdays, Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays.
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- Cézanne's Studio (Atelier Cézanne)
- Aix-en-Provence Old Town (Vieil Aix)
- Aix Cathedral (Cathédrale Saint Sauveur)
- Cours Mirabeau
- Lubéron
- Sainte-Victoire Mountain (Montagne Sainte-Victoire)
- Saint-Rémy-de-Provence
- Manosque
- Camargue
- Valensole Plateau (Plateau De Valensole)
- Les Saintes Maries de la Mer
- Aigues-Mortes
- Lake of Sainte-Croix (Lac de Sainte-Croix)