Are you looking for a family adventure that combines exotic wildlife, prehistoric dinosaurs, and a dose of Danish charm? Look no further than GIVSKUD ZOO – ZOOTOPIA! Last October, our family visited this fantastic park, and we’re excited to share our experience with you. In this blog post, we’ll cover everything from getting there to the exciting exhibits and activities that await you and your little explorers at GIVSKUD ZOO.
The Journey to GIVSKUD ZOO
Our adventure started right after we landed at Billund Airport. We rented a car, which made the 20-minute drive to GIVSKUD ZOO quite convenient. If you’re considering public transportation, keep in mind that it can take up to two hours one way, so plan accordingly. Also, remember that Uber isn’t available in Billund, and taxis can be quite pricey.
If you’re staying in the nearby town of Vejle or another nearby location, you’ll find that driving to GIVSKUD ZOO is straightforward, with well-signed roads leading to the park. Make sure to pack some snacks and drinks for the journey, as there are no shops or restaurants along the way.
Our Wild and Wonderful Experience
The excitement was palpable as we entered GIVSKUD ZOO. Our eldest couldn’t contain his enthusiasm, while our youngest was catching up on some sleep from the early wake-up call and plane journey. The combination of animals and dinosaurs was a winning formula for our family. The Dino camp offered a great way to break up the day with hands-on activities.
Zoo
The zoo itself is home to over 700 animals representing more than 70 species. We marvelled at the diverse species and their unique habitats, from African elephants and giraffes to Arctic wolves and kangaroos. The park has done an excellent job designing the enclosures to be both visually appealing and informative. Each exhibit includes signage with fascinating facts about the animals, their natural habitat, and conservation efforts.
Drive-through Safari
Since we had a car rental, we were able to experience the self-drive safari. If you’ve been following us for a while, you’ll know we love a safari experience at any given opportunity. This unique experience allowed us to see animals like lions, rhinos, and zebras up close from the comfort of our car. The park provides a map and guidebook, which helped us identify the various species and learn more about their behaviour and habitats.
However, if you don’t have your own car, don’t worry! GIVSKUD ZOO offers a Safari Bus for an additional DKK 40 (under 3s are FREE). The trip lasts 1½ – 2 hours and includes an approximately 50-minute break to explore some of the animals on foot. You can walk around and experience some of the enclosures that can only be reached by foot.
Dinosaur Park
The Dinosaur Park was another highlight of our visit, with life-sized replicas of these prehistoric creatures making us feel like we had stepped back in time. The park features over 50 different dinosaur species, ranging from the well-known T-Rex and Triceratops to lesser-known creatures like the Baryonyx and Therizinosaurus. Walking through the park, we were fascinated by the detailed information about each dinosaur’s history, diet, and lifestyle. The big dinosaur exhibition area features different children’s activities throughout the season. I love how much interactive play is found across the park.
Kid-Friendly Features and Activities
GIVSKUD ZOO offers a wide range of kid-friendly features and activities. The play areas scattered throughout the park allow little ones to burn off some energy. These play areas are designed to suit different age groups, ensuring a safe and fun experience for all.
The goat enclosure is a fantastic hands-on experience where children can interact with these friendly animals. Feeding and petting the goats is a delightful experience for kids and a great opportunity for them to learn about animal care and behaviour. My eldest absolutely loved this.
During the school holidays, the park hosts exciting events for the whole family. From special animal encounters to educational workshops and themed days, there’s always something new and exciting happening at GIVSKUD ZOO. Be sure to check their website or inquire at the entrance for the schedule of events during your visit. We missed their October Half Term by one day; however, in all honesty, with all that is available, we really did not miss out.
Also, GIVSKUD ZOO provides FREE carts and wagons for kids and luggage, making your visit even more convenient and enjoyable. These carts are perfect for when little legs get tired or when you need to transport your belongings throughout the park. This is great, as we found most attractions we visited in Billund had carts, but they often charge a hire fee- so it was great that these were free.
The Essential Information
GIVSKUD ZOO is designed with families in mind. The park is open from April to October, with child admission priced at DKK 150 (≈£17.67) and adult admission at DKK 250 (≈£29.46). Under 3s are FREE. We recommend allowing 5-6 hours for your visit. As for dining options, the park has multiple eateries, offering a range of cuisines to suit different tastes and budgets.
If you prefer to bring your own lunch, the park has designated picnic areas where you can enjoy a meal amidst the beautiful surroundings. We enjoyed a meal at the Safari Grill, a fast-food restaurant with surprisingly good food. Plus, it’s located right next to the giant playground and the goat area, allowing you to watch your little ones as they play.
For those looking for souvenirs or gifts, the park has a well-stocked gift shop with various items, including plush toys, clothing, and educational books. It’s a great place to find mementoes of your visit or to pick up something special for friends and family back home.
Our family had an unforgettable adventure at GIVSKUD ZOO – ZOOTOPIA, and we can’t recommend it highly enough. With its incredible array of animals, interactive exhibits, and child-friendly amenities, it’s a must-visit destination for families exploring Denmark. Do, let me know if you have any questions in the comments.