Alpine Zoo Innsbruck (Alpenzoo Innsbruck) Tours and Activities

On the sunny slopes of the Hungerburg plateau, surrounded by snow-capped Alpine peaks, the Alpine Zoo Innsbruck (Alpenzoo Innsbruck) is a unique wildlife reserve with a spectacular setting. Devoted to protecting native Tyrolean wildlife, the zoo is home to more than 2,000 animals, with over 150 different Alpine species represented.

The Basics
Visitors can discover the zoo on a self-guided tour, exploring the many different habitat areas via a network of enclosed walkways. Animal sightings include ibex, brown bears, wolves, golden eagles, and owls. There’s also a freshwater aquarium filled with Alpine fish, several aviaries with more than 60 different bird species, and a show farm, home to sheep, goats, and Turopolje pigs.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The Alpine Zoo is a must for animal lovers—it’s the only one devoted to Alpine animals in the world.
• Plan at least two hours to explore the zoo and wear comfortable shoes; the paths are paved, but they can get quite steep in places.
• Entrance to the zoo is included with the Innsbruck Card.
• The zoo has a café-restaurant, gift shop, paid parking, and children’s playgrounds.
• Almost all areas of the zoo are wheelchair-accessible, and reduced entrance fees are applicable for disability-card holders.

How to Get There
The Alpine Zoo is located in the foothills of the Nordkette mountain range, around 1.5 miles (2.5 kilometers) north of Innsbruck Old Town. There are three transport options from Innsbruck Old Town: take bus W from the Marktplatz, ride the Hungerburgbahn funicular, or arrive by hop-on hop-off bus (included with the Innsbruck Card). It is also possible to walk from town, about a 30-minute uphill walk.

When to Get There
The Alpine Zoo is open daily all year round, from morning to evening April to October, with slightly reduced hours the rest of the year. Animal sightings vary depending on the season—a few animals such as marmots hibernate during the winter months, early spring is when birds begin their mating rituals, and most babies are born in late spring. Summer is the most popular time to visit.

Family Attractions Around Innsbruck
With the Alps on its doorstep, Innsbruck offers plenty of fun activities for families. After animal spotting in the Alpine Zoo, take in the views and watch the skiers at the Bergisel Ski Jump, or explore the crystal creations at Swarovski Crystal World. Active types can let off steam at the BikePark, which has a dedicated Kids’ Park; head to the Muttereralm Abenteuerberg, which has an open-air adventure playground; or ride the cable car up to the Seegrube for magnificent Alpine views and hikes in the mountains.