Nestled between Narbonne and Perpignan, the Réserve Africaine de Sigean unveils a unique wild universe over 350 hectares. This vast natural area is home to several thousand animals, some of which live in semi-liberty, allowing them to retain their wild character and live according to their instincts. Are you ready for an unforgettable day out? Discover our tips and tricks for organizing your day at the Réserve Africaine de Sigean, one of the most beautiful places to visit in Occitanie.
What is the Réserve Africaine de Sigean?
Much like the Thoiry ZooSafari, your visit takes place partly by car, over a distance of around seven kilometers, for an unforgettable safari. This is followed by three hours on foot, to observe the wildlife at close quarters. The Réserve Africaine de Sigean is committed to the conservation of endangered species, making every visit an educational and nature-friendly adventure. In all, over 160 species of animal live here. The reserve is also committed to the conservation of endangered species, which is partly made possible by the price of admission.
This magnificent reserve certainly deserves to join the ranks of France's finest zoos!
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What are the must-sees and must-dos at the Réserve Africaine de Sigean?
Your adventure begins with a 7.5 km safari drive. Keep your eyes peeled for species such as impala, dwarf buffalo, giraffe and springbok. Your route continues towards the Tibetan Bears and the lion zone. Along the way, admire the superb white rhinoceroses, warthogs and other Somali donkeys.
Good to know: didn't get to see all the animals? You can come back for a second safari tour later in the day!
Then it's time for the walking tour, which takes at least 2 h 30. At the ponds, storks, pelicans and pink flamingos delight the eye, while at the Carnivores, wild dogs and cheetahs reveal their wild side.
At thePlaine Africaine Observatory, the whole family can enjoy a spectacular view of dromedaries, meerkats and mountain zebras, to name but a few.
Thought you knew birds? Head for the Grande Volière! Among the species to be discovered are :
- african marabou,
- ibis,
- goliath herons
- hornbills,
- abdim's storks,
- grackles.
In all, 40 extraordinary species share the aviary.
Last but not least, the vivarium allows you to discover numerous species from Africa and Madagascar. The tropical décor, with crocodiles, chameleons and snakes, is simply splendid!
What are the zoo's fees and opening hours?
Please note! Tickets can only be purchased exclusively online by booking here! Tickets cost €33 per adult and €24 per child. Special prices are available for people with reduced mobility (€14.50) and for large families comprising two adults and at least three children (€30/adult and €21/child).
Although the Réserve Africaine de Sigean is open all year round, opening times vary according to the season. In July and August, it opens at 8.30am and the ticket offices close at 5pm. The rest of the time, it opens at 9 a.m. and closes between 4.30 and 5 p.m.
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Practical information to organize your day at the Réserve Africaine de Sigean
A few practical details, and off you go for a unique safari adventure!
How do I get to the Sigean reserve?
The Narbonne/Perpignan region is easily accessible by freeway. From Perpignan, take exit 39, direction Sigean (easy!). Then follow the RD 6009 towards Narbonne.
Coming from Montpellier or Toulouse? Then take exit 39 "Narbonne Sud", then get back on the RD 6009.
It's also possible to arrive by train at Narbonne or Port-la-Nouvelle station, but you'll need to hire a car or take a cab to get to the Reserve.
How long does it take to visit Sigean Zoo?
The safari part takes about 1 hour, and the zoo part between 2 h 30 and 3 hours. However, we advise you to plan for a full day. You may want to repeat the safari section to see all the animals, and the pedestrian section may take a little longer if you're visiting the Réserve Africaine de Sigean with children.
When is the best time to visit the Sigean African Reserve?
The ideal time to visit the Réserve Africaine de Sigean is spring, the season of births, although each season has its advantages. Perhaps you'll be lucky enough to see some babies! Summer is also a pleasant time of year, with plenty of shade and misters. In autumn, temperatures are milder than in July and August, with the changing colors of the trees creating magnificent landscapes to immortalize. Finally, in winter, the animals are decked out in their finest winter furs and plumage!
Where to eat in the Réserve Africaine de Sigean?
While picnic areas are available right next to the animals, the Réserve de Sigean also has a number of food outlets, including 4 snack bars:
- the giraffe snack bar,
- the African Plain snack bar,
- the Tiwanga,
- the Serengeti.
There's also a restaurant serving hot meals until 3:30 p.m., and an ice cream parlour.
Now you're ready to plan your day at the Réserve Africaine de Sigean! The Aude, from the Pyrenees to the sandy beaches, has 1001 wonderful surprises in store for you, including this magnificent animal reserve. We also invite you to discover the 19 must-see things to do in the Aude to complete your stay. Do you like zoos? Discover our tips for visiting the La Flèche zoo, and our advice for organizing your day at the Boissière du Doré zoo.
