Located on the southern flank of the Rock of Monaco, the Rainier
III Zoological Gardens were established in 1954 by Prince Rainier III.
The gardens are home to nearly 300 animals representing some 60 species,
including exotic birds, turtles, caimans, hippopotamuses, reptiles, primates,
and farm animals. None of the animals here were purchased! The Rainier III
Zoological Gardens are somewhat unique, in that all of the animals here were
either donated, abandoned, or seized by customs. When the park’s facilities are
no longer able to house its “residents” in the best possible conditions, they
are transferred to more appropriate zoos, as happened with the white
rhinoceros, for example. The Rainier III Zoological Gardens are one of the last
remaining royal menageries in the world.
When you step into the Zoological Gardens, you will find yourself in a
stunning environment that's as close to the wildness of nature as can be, yet
somehow right in the heart of the modern Principality of Monaco. There is also
a children's playground inside the park.
The exhibition “The Prince and His Animals”, first held as part of
commemorations marking the centenary of Rainier III, is now a permanent
fixture. Rainier III was an animal-lover, and in 1954 founded the “Centre
d’acclimatation zoologique de Monaco”, which went on to become the Rainier III
Zoological Gardens. The exhibition includes previously unseen archive images of
the late Sovereign and looks at the history of the park, as it prepares to
celebrate its 70th anniversary.
Accessibility: The Zoological Gardens are built on the side of the Rock
of Monaco (with small slopes and inclines), but the visitors’ trail is entirely
accessible for wheelchair users. The main path through the park and the toilets
are accessible for persons with reduced mobility.
Pets are not permitted.
Opening times
Open daily:
- 1 March to 31 May: 10 am to 12 pm and 2 pm to 6 pm
- 1 June to 30 September: 9 am to 12 pm and 2 pm to 7 pm
- 1 October to 28 February: 10 am to 12 pm and 2 pm to 5 pm
Last admission 45 minutes before the park closes.
Opening dates and times are subject to change.
Admission prices
- Adults: €6.00
- Children (aged 6-17): €3.00
- Children under 6: free
Tickets can be purchased online HERE or via the free Monapass app.
Photo credits:
©Benjamin Vergély / Jardin Animalier Rainier III