Did you know that La Flèche Zoo, founded in 1946, was the first private zoo in France? Today, it still ranks among the top 5 zoological parks in France. Visitors flock here in droves to discover the animal species from all over the world for which it is renowned. Partly made famous by the TV show "Une Saison au Zoo" since 2014, this park dedicated to the animal world has captured the hearts of the French. Discover the best tips and tricks to organize your visit to La Flèche zoo, near Le Mans.
What is La Flèche Zoo?
Since its creation in 1946, La Flèche Zoo has continued to shine, ranking among the top 10 most popular zoos and animal parks in France. Here, attention to animal welfare and visitor care is an undisputed priority. The teams do everything in their power to create a friendly atmosphere that is constantly evolving, while respecting the animals of the world that have found refuge here.
The La Flèche Zoo 's commitment is expressed through four key missions:
- educate the public,
- entertain them with innovative, animal-friendly activities,
- contribute to the preservation of species,
- conduct research.
These missions become all the more crucial in the light of today's threats to wildlife. In addition to preserving endangered species, this exceptional zoo highlights the richness of its flora. You'll have the pleasure of discovering over 800 carefully arranged plant species. The aim? To recreate the right atmosphere for the animals, as the zoo recognizes the importance of plants to the well-being of its residents. Find out how to organize your visit to La Flèche Zoo, to make the most of this wonderful experience.
What are the must-sees at La Flèche Zoo?
The La Flèche zoo is home to animals from all over the world, spread over distinct territories and adapted to their natural habitat. To organize your visit to the La Flèche zoo, take a look at the must-see universes.
Dry forests and savannahs
Discover our wild animals, especially the king of them all: the lion. Set up in a world where he can flourish, he makes himself at home in his own quarters. Many other wild animals await you in the park, such as cheetahs.
Animals of Europe
Feathered animals are in the spotlight in Europe! From the heron to the griffon vulture, not forgetting the black kite, you'll be dazzled by these sublime species.
Animals of Oceania
Havekangaroos and wallabies always been your dream? Then the area dedicated to animals from Oceania is for you! You'll also discover the emu and the adorable rainbow lorikeet.
Asian animals
Beware, the Sumatran tiger is on the lookout! The white tiger also has a place in this exceptional zoo, where the future of endangered species is a central concern. You'll also have the pleasure of admiring the adorable red panda, the sublime black panther, not forgetting the grizzly bear and the fishing cat, to name but a few.
Arctic animals
With its vast expanses of snow, white is the color of the day in the area dedicated to Arctic animals! The snowy owl, the white wolf and the polar bear are sure to surprise you and take you on a journey to the land of the cold!
Animals of America
In South America, make way for macaws, coati, llamas and maned wolves. Uncommon species such as the ocelot, tamarin and jaguarondi will dazzle young and old alike.
In North America, you'll find the California sea lion and the Great gray owl.
Animals of Africa
From bongo andelephant to hippopotamus and cheetah, there are plenty of animals to flourish in this area. Less common species, such as the colobe guéréza, maki and mandrill, will also take you on a journey to Africa.
What are the must-see attractions at La Flèche Zoo?
This little treasure nestled in the heart of the Sarthe region has many surprises in store for visiting families. In addition to the zoo visit itself, there are a number of shows and activities on offer:
- commented feeding of California sea lions,
- presentation of birds in a free-flying amphitheater (birds of prey, storks, parrots, etc.),
- meeting with the elephants,
- snack time with penguins, elephants, Sumatran tigers, hippos and giraffes.
To extend these discoveries, you can enjoy an immersive experience by sleeping in a zoo lodge. Even more fun: become a zookeeper for a day! Perhaps this will be tomorrow's job for children...?
How long does it take to visit La Flèche Zoo?
If you'revisiting as a couple or with friends, one day is enough to see everything. It's a big zoo, and the activities are a must, but nothing that can't be done with adult legs! On the other hand, it's better to plan for two days if you're visiting with children. Their little legs won't be able to keep up with your own pace, requiring several breaks throughout the day. Their visit (and yours) will be all the more enjoyable. No one is here to stress, but to enjoy 100%!
What are the prices and opening hours of the La Flèche Zoo?
The La Flèche zoo is open all year round. Opening times vary according to the season. In July and August, at the height of the summer season, the zoo is open from 9.30 am to 7.30 pm. During peak periods, the zoo is open from 9.30 am to 7 pm, or 6 pm. Out of season, the opening times are 9.30 a.m.-5.30 p.m. or 10 a.m.-5.30 p.m. Don't hesitate to consult the page dedicated to opening hours on the zoo's website, where they are clearly detailed.
In 2023, expect to pay the following prices:
1-day ticket :
- Adults and young people aged 12 and over: €26.50.
- Children aged 3 to 11: €19.50.
2-day ticket:
- Adult: €39.50.
- Children: 29€.
Annual pass :
- Adult: 73€.
- Children: 57€.
Special rates apply for disabled visitors.
Where can I buy tickets for La Flèche Zoo?
You can of course buy your tickets directly at the park entrance. Would you rather avoid the queue? Good idea, especially if you're visiting La Flèche zoo in summer! In that case, book your tickets online: you'll save time entering the park when you arrive! As the date is free, you can visit the zoo on the day of your choice, without any constraints.
Where to sleep and eat at La Flèche Zoo?
Although picnics are allowed in the park, there are plenty of places to eat and drink.
- Safari Camp: a cafeteria with terrace.
- Pizza Camp : enjoy your pizza while admiring the park's animals.
- Burger Camp: burgers and sandwiches for your lunch break!
- Majunga : fast-food takeaways.
- Yukon Snack: homemade sandwiches, salads and hot dogs.
- Savannah : for sweet breaks.
In addition, numerous kiosks offer ice creams and drinks.
Want to spend the night? Treat yourself to a night of unusual accommodation, by renting a lodge at La Flèche Zoo. The lodges are located in the heart of 8 different worlds, to choose from:
- lions
- cheetahs
- arctic wolves,
- lemurs,
- grizzly bears,
- polar bears,
- white tigers,
- sumatran tigers.
In addition to these unusual accommodations, 12 spacious and comfortable suites are available, with a breathtaking view of cheetahs and lions!
How to get to La Flèche Zoo?
If you're coming by car, La Flèche zoo is fairly close to major cities, and accessible by freeway, via :
- the A11 or D23 for Le Mans and Angers
- the A11 for Laval, Alençon, Nantes, Paris and Chartres
- the A81 for Rennes,
- the A28 for Caen,
- the A10 for Orléans.
Coming by train? You'll arrive at either Le Mans or Angers station. From Le Mans, take bus no. 26. From Angers, take line no. 402. These buses will take you to the La Flèche bus station, from where a free shuttle bus will take you to the park.
What to do and see around La Flèche Zoo?
Organizing your visit to La Flèche zoo also means thinking about how to make the most of the time you'll have left over for your other visits. Take a closer look at Tours. Just over an hour from the zoo, the town has many surprises in store for you. Discover the 15 must-sees in Tours, from its superb museums to its old town center.
The Maine-et-Loire region also has a lot to offer, so make the most of your stay to discover some of its most beautiful spots, especially those accessible to families. Terra Botanica is a wonderful example, with its attractions, magical world and abundant plant species. Just 1 hour from La Flèche, you can also discover the Bioparc de Doué-la-Fontaine, a park dedicated to the protection of endangered animal species.
The Château de Brissac and the Château d'Angers are also worth a visit. Last but not least, the Forêt Domaniale de Chandelais Baugé en Anjou, just 25 minutes from La Flèche, offers the whole family a relaxing break in the heart of nature.
Still have a little time left? Don't hesitate to visit Le Mans, famous for its racing circuit. Designated a "Ville d'Art et d'Histoire" (City of Art and History), Le Mans has much to offer visitors, particularly in its old town.
This zoo is one of France's most beautiful animal parks, so don't hesitate! If you follow these few tips for organizing your visit to La Flèche zoo, you're sure to have a great time. The zoo's teams are committed to preserving endangered species, and the price of admission helps them to continue their fine work on behalf of animals. You'll kill two birds with one stone: you'll have a great day out with family, friends or your partner, while helping to preserve endangered species!
