Founded in 1966 by Irène and Claude Caillé, La Palmyre Zoo is now expertly managed by their son, Patrick Caillé, and grandson, Pierre Caillé. Within a stunning 18-hectare pine forest, this remarkable zoo is just a stone’s throw from the Côte Sauvage beaches, making it a must-visit destination for families and nature enthusiasts.
Located in Charente-Maritime, in the picturesque coastal town of Les Mathes, the zoo is ideally situated near La Palmyre Beach. Its prime location in Nouvelle-Aquitaine allows visitors to seamlessly combine a trip to the zoo with exploring the breathtaking natural surroundings. Whether enjoying a stroll along the Atlantic coast or marvelling at the diverse wildlife, visiting La Palmyre Zoo promises an unforgettable day.
A Haven for Wildlife Enthusiasts
As one of France’s top tourist attractions, La Palmyre Zoo welcomes approximately 600,000 visitors each year. Open year-round, the zoo is home to over 1,600 animals representing 110 species. Boasting an impressive record of more than 200 births annually, including various primates such as gorillas and orangutans, the zoo plays a vital role in animal conservation and education.
Visitors can expect to encounter an incredible variety of wildlife, including iconic species like Asian elephants, white rhinoceroses, flamingos, lions, gibbons, cheetahs, wolves, zebras, hippos, giant otters, crocodiles, polar bears, and tortoises. Beloved favourites such as giraffes, red pandas, lemurs, and exotic birds are also part of the experience. Don’t miss the chance to interact with giraffes at their head height, where feeding them is a highlight for many and definitely was for me.
From Easter to All Saints’ Day, daily presentations featuring sea lions and birds offer an extra layer of entertainment and education, making it a truly family-friendly experience.
A Commitment to Conservation
La Palmyre Zoo is deeply committed to wildlife preservation, actively participating in 50 European Breeding Programs and funding over 20 conservation initiatives worldwide. From protecting orangutans and elephants in Borneo to supporting lemurs in Madagascar and tamarins in Colombia, the zoo plays a pivotal role in safeguarding endangered species across the globe.
Plan Your Visit
With so much to see and do, you’ll want to spend a full day exploring La Palmyre Zoo. The park’s extensive pine forest and shaded pathways create a natural and inviting environment, perfect for leisurely exploration. If you need a break, you can leave and re-enter the park during the day, remember to get your hand stamped at the entrance.
While the zoo is a fantastic place, some enclosures, such as those for lions, could benefit from improvements to provide more animal space.
Dining Options at La Palmyre Zoo
The zoo offers two dining options:
- The bar above the sea lion bleachers serves hot dogs, sandwiches, and crêpes.
- The crêperie, near the giant otter enclosure, offers galettes, salads, and desserts.
For those who prefer to bring their food, picnic areas are available along the pathways and on the sea lion and bird bleachers when presentations are not taking place. Vending machines and ice cream stands are conveniently located throughout the park.
A Memorable Day Out
Whether you’re an animal lover or simply looking for an enriching day out with family or friends, La Palmyre Zoo offers a unique blend of education, conservation, and fun. Its natural setting and incredible array of wildlife make it a destination worth visiting again and again.
How far is La Palmyre Zoo from Dordogne?
It is about a 2 hour, 15-minute drive from North Dordogne.
