Be'er Sheva Zoo
An unconventional desert zoo near Be'er Sheva, offering a unique family experience with visible animals and interactive fun.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Animals are active, less heat
Be'er Sheva Zoo
Best Time
Animals are active, less heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An unconventional desert zoo near Be'er Sheva, offering a unique family experience with visible animals and interactive fun.
"Wonderful place to go with kids. A lot of animals who are friendly and not hiding from visitors."
💧 Stay Hydrated!
The desert heat is intense. Bring ample water and take frequent breaks in shaded areas. :droplet:
🎟️ Buy Tickets Online
Save time by purchasing your tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons. :ticket:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Majestic Lions
Lion Enclosure
Witness the impressive presence of lions, often visible and active, making for a memorable sighting.
Impressive Hippopotamus
Hippopotamus Exhibit
Marvel at the large hippopotamus, a captivating sight for visitors of all ages.
Interactive Kids' Stations
Children's Play Areas
Engage children with original games and quests, utilizing simple tools and multimedia for an educational experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Negev Heat
Animal Welfare Concerns
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💧 Stay Hydrated!
The desert heat is intense. Bring ample water and take frequent breaks in shaded areas. :droplet:
🎟️ Buy Tickets Online
Save time by purchasing your tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons. :ticket:
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Wear hats, sunscreen, and light clothing to protect yourself from the strong desert sun. :sunwithface:
🐾 Feeding Animals
Be cautious if buying food to feed animals; it can make them agitated. :paw_prints:
Tips
from all over the internet
💧 Stay Hydrated!
The desert heat is intense. Bring ample water and take frequent breaks in shaded areas. :droplet:
🎟️ Buy Tickets Online
Save time by purchasing your tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons. :ticket:
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Wear hats, sunscreen, and light clothing to protect yourself from the strong desert sun. :sunwithface:
🐾 Feeding Animals
Be cautious if buying food to feed animals; it can make them agitated. :paw_prints:
🚶♀️ Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes. :athletic_shoe:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Be'er Sheva Zoo to be an unconventional and fun experience, particularly for families, with visible and active animals like lions and hippos. However, some guests have expressed concerns regarding animal welfare, citing issues with nutrition, lack of shade, and enclosure sizes for certain species.
"I recently visited the zoo, and while I appreciate the effort to care for the animals, I was very concerned about some of the conditions. Many of the animals looked very thin, and it seemed like they are not getting enough proper nutrition. Additionally, there was a serious lack of shaded areas in many enclosures. Animals need places to escape the sun and rest comfortably, especially on hot days, but unfortunately, most of them had no access to shade.
It was particularly alarming to see the small animals kept in glass enclosures. They clearly have too little space, cannot move freely, and looked very stressed. It seems that many of them are slowly dying from stress and the lack of a natural environment.
I understand that running a zoo is challenging, and I truly respect the staff who work hard to maintain the animals’ health. However, I believe that adding shade for all animals, reviewing their diets, providing enough space, and improving conditions for the small animals would make a huge difference. Animals deserve a safe and comfortable environment that meets their physical and emotional needs. I hope the management takes these concerns seriously and works to improve the welfare of all the animals.💔😿"
liana elonova
"An unconventional zoo. With a non-standard design. There are quite a few animals of all kinds. Very beautiful lions and an impressive hippopotamus :-). There are enough toilets and kiosks with drinks and snacks. It is recommended to buy tickets in advance and come in weather that is not too hot, in order to see as many animals as possible outside their hiding places."
Marina Henkin (Maryza)
"Wonderful place to go with kids. A lot of animals who are friendly and not hiding from visitors. Many original games and quests for kids using simple tools and multimedia devices.
Be aware that it is super hot there. Plan time of arrival and cool down breaks. Do not forget water and head covers."
Leonid
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Be'er Sheva Zoo, also known as Midbarium, is located near Be'er Sheva in the Negev desert. Driving is the most common way to reach it. Parking is generally available. Public transport options might be limited, so check local bus schedules if you're relying on them.
Yes, there is typically parking available at the zoo. It's advisable to arrive earlier in the day, especially on weekends or holidays, to secure a spot.
Opening hours can vary, especially with seasonal changes and holidays. It's best to check the official zoo website or their social media pages for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
While the zoo has a non-standard design, many areas are generally accessible. However, due to the desert terrain, some paths might be uneven. It's recommended to inquire directly with the zoo for specific accessibility details.
The drive from Tel Aviv or Jerusalem to Be'er Sheva typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic. Factor in additional travel time to the zoo itself from the city center.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is generally considered fair. For the most accurate and current pricing, it's recommended to check the zoo's official website or purchase tickets in advance online.
Yes, you can usually buy tickets at the zoo entrance. However, to save time and potentially avoid queues, especially during busy periods, buying tickets in advance online is a good strategy.
Discounts may be available for specific groups such as children, seniors, or students. It's advisable to check the zoo's official website or contact them directly for information on current promotions or group rates.
Booking tickets online through the official Be'er Sheva Zoo website is the most convenient method. This ensures you have your tickets ready and can often choose your entry time if required.
There isn't typically a strict time limit for visiting the zoo, allowing you to explore at your own pace. However, be mindful of the closing hours, especially if you plan to see all the animals.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The zoo houses a variety of animals, including lions and a hippopotamus. Visitors have reported seeing many animals that are not hiding, suggesting a good visibility of the inhabitants. +1
Absolutely! The zoo offers many original games and interactive stations for kids, utilizing simple tools and multimedia devices. It's a great place for families to enjoy.
Given the desert climate, it's essential to bring plenty of water, wear hats and sunscreen, and opt for comfortable walking shoes. Snacks are also a good idea, though kiosks are available.
While some visitors mention the option to buy food to feed animals, it's advised to be cautious. This can make animals agitated, and some may try to bite through bars if they don't receive food.
The zoo is generally well-maintained with a beautiful and convenient design. There are sufficient toilets and kiosks selling drinks and snacks. +1
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are kiosks available inside the zoo that offer drinks and snacks for visitors.
Bringing your own water and snacks is highly recommended, especially due to the desert heat. This allows you to stay hydrated and manage your hunger without relying solely on the kiosks.
The kiosks typically offer a range of drinks and snacks. Specific offerings can vary, but expect common refreshments suitable for a day out.
While there are kiosks within the zoo, for a wider selection of dining options, you would likely need to travel back to Be'er Sheva city center.
Prices at the kiosks are generally reasonable for a tourist attraction. However, bringing your own provisions can be a more budget-friendly approach.
📸 📸 Photography
The lion enclosure and the hippopotamus exhibit offer great opportunities for striking photos. Also, look for unique angles of the desert landscape surrounding the zoo.
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the zoo. However, always be mindful of any specific signage regarding flash photography or restrictions in certain areas.
A camera with a good zoom lens is beneficial for capturing clear shots of animals from a distance. However, a smartphone with a decent camera can also capture memorable moments.
Try to capture the animals in their natural-looking habitats. Early morning or late afternoon light can provide softer, more flattering lighting conditions.
Video recording is usually permitted. Many visitors share their experiences through videos on platforms like TikTok and Instagram, showcasing the animals and the zoo's atmosphere.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider purchasing animal feed if your children are keen to interact, but be aware that this can sometimes make animals agitated.
☀️ Budget Travelers
Transportation costs should also be factored in, especially if you are relying on public transport or driving long distances. Planning your visit to coincide with cooler parts of the day can also save on potential costs associated with staying cool if you were to visit during the hottest hours.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The unique desert landscape surrounding the zoo can also provide interesting backdrops. Aim for early morning or late afternoon light for softer, more dramatic shots. While most areas permit photography, be mindful of any signage regarding flash use. A zoom lens can be beneficial for capturing detailed animal portraits from a distance. Many visitors share their photographic and video experiences on social media, offering inspiration for your own shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Negev Climate
Essential items to bring include a substantial amount of water, hats for sun protection, and lightweight, breathable clothing. Seek out shaded areas within the zoo for rest breaks. While kiosks offer refreshments, carrying your own water supply is a wise precaution.
Consider visiting during the spring or autumn months for more temperate weather, which can lead to more active animals and a more comfortable exploration experience.
Understanding Animal Welfare
These concerns highlight the challenges of maintaining an optimal environment for diverse species in a desert climate. Visitors have noted that animals can appear stressed due to limited space and lack of naturalistic settings. The staff are acknowledged for their hard work, but improvements in diet, shade provision, and enclosure size are suggested to enhance the animals' well-being. [^Review]
It's important for potential visitors to be aware of these observations. While the zoo aims to provide a good experience, the welfare of its inhabitants is a critical aspect that has been commented on by some guests. [^Review]
Family Fun and Interactive Learning
Many reviewers emphasize that the animals are often visible and active, not hiding from visitors, which enhances the experience for children. The opportunity for kids to potentially feed some animals (with caution) adds another layer of interaction.
Overall, the zoo provides a positive and memorable outing for families, combining animal encounters with stimulating activities that cater to younger audiences.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit