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Kabul Zoo: A Sanctuary of Resilience

Discover a resilient sanctuary in the heart of Kabul, home to diverse wildlife and a symbol of Afghan strength. Open daily for an inspiring experience.

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Kabul Zoo, established in 1967, has weathered decades of conflict, emerging as a symbol of resilience and a refuge for both animals and people in the heart of Kabul. Home to over 600 animals representing 100 different species, the zoo offers a glimpse into the natural world amidst the city's bustling environment [3, 8].

A brief summary to Kabul Zoo

Local tips

  • Dress modestly in respect of local culture; comfortable walking shoes are recommended [15].
  • Check the latest opening hours and security situation before planning your visit [15].
  • Carry local currency (Afghan Afghani) for admission and other expenses [16].
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    Taxis are a common mode of transport in Kabul [10]. From most locations in the city center, a taxi to Kabul Zoo will cost approximately 300-500 AFN, depending on the distance and traffic [12, 17]. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey. Ensure the taxi is using a meter or agree on a price beforehand [12].

  • Public Transport

    Kabul has a public bus system, but it may not serve all areas directly [10, 13]. Check local routes and availability. The fare for a bus ride is typically around 10-20 AFN [17]. From a bus stop, a short taxi ride to the zoo might be necessary.

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Discover more about Kabul Zoo

Kabul Zoo, inaugurated in 1967, stands as a testament to Afghanistan's enduring spirit, offering a sanctuary for wildlife and a place of recreation for its people [2, 3, 5]. Located on the banks of the Kabul River, adjacent to the Deh Mazang Circle, the zoo has been a popular destination for locals and tourists alike [2, 3]. In its early years, the zoo was a symbol of modernization, showcasing a diverse collection of Afghan fauna and exotic species with the help of German zoologists [3, 5]. By 1972, it housed over 400 animals, including rare species like the Bactrian Wapiti and Goitered Gazelle [3, 5]. The zoo suffered extensive damage during the civil war in the 1990s [2, 3, 6]. Many animals perished due to shelling, starvation, or were taken for food [2, 3]. An elephant, Hathi, was tragically killed by a rocket [2, 3]. Despite the challenges, a dedicated team of zookeepers risked their lives to keep the zoo open [3]. The Taliban's rise in 1996 initially threatened the zoo's existence, but it remained open after a zookeeper referenced the Prophet Muhammad's fondness for pets [2, 3, 9]. Marjan the lion, a symbol of the zoo's and the country's suffering, became its most famous resident [2, 3, 9]. A bronze statue of Marjan now stands at the entrance [2]. Today, Kabul Zoo houses over 600 animals from 100 families, including lions, leopards, bears, camels, deer, and various species of birds [3, 8, 14, 15]. Despite limited resources, the zoo continues to provide a vital recreational and educational resource for the people of Kabul [3].

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