Zoo de La Flèche

The basics

Zoo de la Flèche is famous for starring in the French TV show “Un Saison au Zoo” (“A Season at the Zoo”). However, as the zoo is set away from the bigger cities and top Loire Valley destinations, there are limited group day trip options. Private day trips (with a driver and a customizable itinerary) are good options, or you could make your zoo trip longer by reserving one of the animal-facing lodges for an overnight adventure.

Things to know before you go

• The park has a lot to cover, so plan for at least a full day of exploring. Two-day tickets are also available, which work well if you’re staying in the lodges overnight.

• Free educational experiences take place daily, including free-flight bird presentations and animal feeding demonstrations.

• If you’ve bought online tickets, print or download them before your visit as the 3G/4G connection by the park entrance is sometimes unreliable.

• Onsite facilities include a gift shop, picnic areas, and several restaurants and snack bars.

• There is a big parking lot that’s free for visitors. Spaces for people with reduced mobility are near the park entrance.

• The park has English signage.

• Wheelchair users will find the whole park accessible, although help may be needed on some of the longer slopes.

How to get there

The zoo is just south of the town of La Flèche in the Sarthe region. It’s easiest to visit by car, located roughly 45 minutes from bigger towns such as Le Mans or Angers. Car-free folk can take a bus from Angers or Le Mans to La Flèche bus station, followed by the free shuttle bus La Flèche Zoo (Line 26) that operates from April through September. Off-peak travelers may need to take a local taxi.

When to get there

Zoo de la Flèche is open daily, year-round from morning until early evening. Depending on visitor numbers and weather conditions, the opening hours are subject to change—if the weather looks uncertain, check with the zoo before making a trip. You can book to stay at the Zoo de la Flèche Safari Lodge and Suite year-round.

How to be a zoo keeper for the day

For wannabe zoo keepers and zoologists, look to the park’s Keeper for a Day experiences. These are available on weekdays through the year for children aged between 8 and 14 years old. While they don’t come cheap, the experience offers a fun and educational chance to go behind the scenes at the zoo, preparing meals, cleaning, and observing some animals.