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Kabul Zoo: A Sanctuary of Wildlife in a Recovering City

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

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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

Local tips

  • 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.

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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].

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