Cities
Lithuania Kaunas Kaunas Zoo

Lithuanian Zoo

About

Lithuanian Zoo in Kaunas, founded in 1938 by the renowned naturalist Tadas Ivanauskas, is the oldest zoo in the country and a landmark of early Lithuanian scientific ambition. Set within the leafy Ąžuolynas area, it has recently undergone major renovation, transforming it into a modern, spacious environment focused on animal welfare and education while preserving its historic charm. Inside, visitors can explore themed zones that highlight species from different continents. The renovated tropical house is one of the most engaging areas, home to reptiles, amphibians and exotic birds in carefully recreated habitats. Outdoors, large enclosures host lions, tigers, lynxes and bears, offering a closer look at animals that have long been favourites of the zoo’s visitors. The primate section, featuring playful lemurs and macaques, is especially popular with families. One of the zoo’s most interesting aspects is its long tradition of breeding rare species, including European bison and various birds of prey. Educational installations and viewing platforms help visitors understand conservation efforts and the behaviour of the animals.

Kaunas Lithuania
Lithuanian Zoo
Location

The Lithuanian Zoo is located in the Žaliakalnis district of Kaunas, in central Lithuania. Established in 1938, it is the oldest and only state-run zoo in the country, set within the leafy Ąžuolynas Oak Park area. The zoo houses over 2,000 animals representing around 250 species from around the world. Visitors can see big cats, primates, reptiles, birds of prey, and many native Baltic species. The zoo also has an aquarium, terrarium, and a petting area for children. Recent renovations have added modern enclosures and educational exhibits focused on conservation. The zoo is right next to Ąžuolynas Park, one of Europe’s largest urban oak groves, perfect for peaceful walks and playgrounds. Just a short stroll away is the Christ’s Resurrection Basilica, offering panoramic views of Kaunas from its rooftop terrace. The Kaunas Sports Hall and Darius and Girėnas Stadium are also close by. From the zoo, it’s only about 10 minutes to Kaunas Old Town, where you can explore Kaunas Castle, Town Hall Square, and Laisvės Alėja, the longest pedestrian street in Eastern Europe. The M. K. Čiurlionis National Museum of Art and the nearby Devils’ Museum make it easy to combine wildlife with culture in one visit.

Kaunas City Museum Kaunas City Museum Museum Vytautas the Great War Museum Vytautas the Great War Museum Museum M.K. Čiurlionis Museum of Art M.K. Čiurlionis Museum of Art Museum Devils' Museum Devils' Museum Museum Kaunas Ninth Fort Museum Kaunas Ninth Fort Museum Museum Lietuvos aviacijos muziejus Lietuvos aviacijos muziejus Museum Museum of the History of Lithuanian Medicine and Pharmacy Museum of the History of Lithuanian Medicine and Pharmacy Museum Historical Presidential Palace Historical Presidential Palace Museum Kaunas Tadas Ivanauskas Museum of Zoology Kaunas Tadas Ivanauskas Museum of Zoology Museum Maironis Museum of Lithuanian Literature Maironis Museum of Lithuanian Literature Museum Kaunas Sport museum Kaunas Sport museum Museum Kaunas Art Deco Museum Kaunas Art Deco Museum Museum KGB Atomic Bunker Museum KGB Atomic Bunker Museum Museum Stumbras Museum Stumbras Museum Museum Kaunas Castle Kaunas Castle Castle Kaunas Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul Kaunas Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul Basilica Church of St. Michael the Archangel Church of St. Michael the Archangel Church Kaunas State Musical Theatre Kaunas State Musical Theatre Theatre Kaunas State Drama Theatre Kaunas State Drama Theatre Theatre Ąžuolynas Park Ąžuolynas Park Park VDU Botanical garden VDU Botanical garden Botanical Garden Pazaislis Monastery and Church Pazaislis Monastery and Church Monastery