Kabul Zoo: A Sanctuary of Wildlife in a Recovering City

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

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Kabul Zoo

Kabul Zoo, established in 1967, has been a popular attraction for locals and tourists, offering a connection with nature amidst the bustling city [3, 4]. Despite facing immense challenges during the civil war, it has been rehabilitated and continues to provide a recreational and educational resource for the people of Kabul [4, 10, 18].

A brief summary to Kabul Zoo

G553+VWJ, Asmayi Rd, Kabul, AF
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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

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Kabul Zoo.

Check the latest opening hours and security situation before planning your visit, as they may vary [22].
Dress modestly in respect of local culture and wear comfortable walking shoes [22].
Carry local currency (Afghan Afghani) to cover entrance fees and other expenses [23].

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Getting There

Taxi

Taxis are a common mode of transport in Kabul [6, 7, 14]. From a central location like the Kabul Serena Hotel, a taxi to Kabul Zoo will cost approximately 150-250 AFN, depending on traffic and negotiation [6, 8, 15]. Ensure to agree on the fare before starting your journey. The ride takes about 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions [16, 20].
Public Transport

While Kabul has a public bus system, it may not be the most convenient option for tourists due to limited routes and potential delays [7, 14, 17]. However, if you choose this option, the fare is around 10-20 AFN [20]. Check local bus routes for the most up-to-date information. From a major transport hub, board a Millie Bus, and expect a journey of approximately 30-45 minutes to reach the zoo [7].
Walking

If you are already near the Deh Mazang Circle or City Park, walking to Kabul Zoo is a viable option. Follow Asmayi Road to reach the zoo's entrance [3]. Be aware of your surroundings and local traffic conditions. No costs are involved.

Discover more about Kabul Zoo

Kabul Zoo, inaugurated in 1967, is located on the bank of the Kabul River, adjacent to the Deh Mazang Circle [3, 4]. The zoo was once a symbol of modernization and national pride, showcasing a diverse collection of Afghan fauna and exotic species [4, 9, 10]. By 1972, it housed over 400 animals, including rare and endangered species [4, 9].The zoo suffered significant damage during the 1990s civil war, with the aquarium damaged by shelling and many animals perishing due to starvation or violence [3, 4]. Despite the challenges, a dedicated team of zookeepers risked their lives to keep the zoo open [4, 10]. The Taliban, who took control of Kabul in 1996, initially considered the zoo incompatible with their version of Islam but allowed it to remain open after persuasion by a zookeeper [3, 4].Today, Kabul Zoo houses over 600 animals from 100 different families [4, 18]. Visitors can observe lions, bears, wolves, macaques, various bird species, and other animals [4, 21]. The zoo also features a bronze statue of Marjan the Lion, a symbol of the zoo's and the country's suffering, who was born in Germany and donated to Kabul Zoo in 1976 [3, 4]. The zoo is a popular spot for families and individuals seeking recreation and a connection with nature [4, 18, 19].