Artis Royal Zoo Accessibility Guide

Overview

Artis Royal Zoo, founded in 1838, is one of the oldest zoos in Europe. Located in the Plantage neighborhood, it is home to hundreds of animal species, a planetarium (included with admission), the Groote Museum, and Micropia (a separate museum about microorganisms). The zoo covers about 14 hectares of landscaped grounds.

Most areas of the zoo are accessible for wheelchair users and mobility scooter riders. Main paths are paved and mostly flat. The zoo has 20 wheelchairs and one mobility scooter available for visitors. Some historic animal houses, such as the Gorilla House, have manually operated heavy doors that may need help to open. One companion for a disabled visitor enters free of charge.

Getting There

• Tram: Tram 14 to Artis (Plantage Kerklaan stop). The stop is directly outside the main entrance.
• Metro: Waterlooplein station (Line 52) is about a 10-minute roll via flat streets. The station has elevator access.
• Bus: Bus 22 stops nearby.
• Accessible parking: Five accessible parking spaces are in the Artis parking lot, close to the main entrance. The route from parking to the entrance is about 150 meters, paved and wheelchair-friendly with one lowered curb.
• Accessible entrance: The main entrance on Plantage Kerklaan is step-free.

Wheelchair Accessibility

• Main paths through the zoo are paved and mostly flat. They connect all major animal houses and viewing areas.
• 20 wheelchairs are available for loan. A coin deposit (0.50, 1, or 2 EUR) is required and refunded when you return the wheelchair. If you do not have coins, get an ARTIS token for 1 EUR (debit card accepted) at the shop or ticket desk.
• One mobility scooter is available free of charge for visitors who cannot walk the zoo without one. Reserve at least one day in advance by calling +31 (0)20 523 3670. A 50 EUR deposit is required (arranged at the service desk).
• A limited number of wheelchairs can be reserved in advance. Call +31 (0)20 523 3670 at least one day before your visit.
• The Gorilla House has manually operated doors that are heavy. You may need someone to help open them.
• The Groote Museum and Micropia each have one wheelchair available to borrow (no deposit required).

Accessible Toilets

All restrooms in the park are accessible for wheelchair and mobility scooter users. They are located throughout the zoo near major animal houses and dining areas. Ask at the entrance for a map showing toilet locations.

Tips for Visitors with Disabilities

• Book tickets online for a lower price (29.50 EUR vs. 30.50 EUR at the gate). One companion enters free for visitors who cannot visit independently. Get companion tickets at the ticket desk.
• The planetarium is included with zoo admission. Shows run throughout the day and the theater is accessible.
• Assistance dogs are welcome in the zoo, except in a few enclosures where their presence may stress the animals. Ask for the special assistance dog route at the ticket desk.
• Plan at least 3 hours for the zoo alone. Add time if visiting Micropia or the Groote Museum.
• Weekday mornings are quietest. Weekend afternoons are crowded with families and strollers, making paths harder to navigate.