Background

Kabul Zoo: A Sanctuary Amidst Conflict

Discover Afghan wildlife and resilience at Kabul Zoo, a historic sanctuary offering a green escape in the heart of the capital.

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Kabul Zoo, established in 1967, has served as a refuge for wildlife and a symbol of resilience for the Afghan people, surviving decades of conflict and neglect. Located on the banks of the Kabul River, it offers a green space and a chance to see animals from Afghanistan and around the world [3, 4].

A brief summary to Kabul Zoo

  • Monday 8 am-4:30 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-4:30 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-4:30 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-4:30 pm
  • Friday 8 am-4:30 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-4:30 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-4:30 pm

Local tips

  • Check the latest opening hours, as they may vary depending on the season and security situation [17].
  • Dress modestly in respect of local culture; comfortable walking shoes are recommended [17].
  • Carry local currency (Afghan Afghani) to pay the entrance fee [18].
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    Taxis are a common mode of transport in Kabul [6, 10]. From most locations in the city center, a taxi to Kabul Zoo will be a relatively short ride. Be sure to negotiate the fare before starting your journey. A typical short taxi ride in Kabul may cost around 100-200 AFN, but prices can vary depending on the distance and your negotiation skills [6, 15].

  • Public Transport

    Kabul has a public bus system, but it may not be the most convenient option for tourists [6, 10]. If you choose to take the bus, check the routes and stops to see if there is a bus that passes near the zoo. Bus fares are typically very low. In March 2021, the bus fare was 10 AFN for a 20-30 minute trip [15].

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Discover more about Kabul Zoo

Kabul Zoo, inaugurated in 1967, has a storied past, reflecting both Afghanistan's relationship with wildlife and its turbulent history [3, 4, 8]. In its early years, the zoo was a symbol of modernization, showcasing Afghan fauna and exotic species with the help of German zoologists [4, 7]. By 1972, it housed over 400 animals, including rare species [4]. The zoo suffered extensive damage during the civil war in the 1990s. Shelling damaged the aquarium, and desperate combatants raided the grounds for food. An elephant named Hathi was tragically killed [3, 4]. Despite the challenges, a dedicated team of zookeepers risked their lives to keep the zoo open [4]. The Taliban's rise in 1996 brought further uncertainty, but the zoo remained open after a zookeeper cited Islamic teachings about the Prophet Muhammad's fondness for pets [3, 4, 14]. Marjan the lion, born in Germany and donated to Kabul Zoo in 1976, became a symbol of the zoo's and the country's suffering [4, 14]. He survived a grenade attack that left him blind in one eye and endured many hardships [4, 14]. A bronze statue stands at the entrance in his honor [3]. Today, the zoo houses over 600 animals from 100 different families [4, 11]. While the collection may not be as extensive as in its heyday, the zoo remains a vital recreational and educational resource for the people of Kabul [4].

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