Belgrade Zoo attracts 400,000 visitors annually, plans monkey enclosure reconstruction and new vet clinic

Belgrade Zoo is a popular destination, attracting around 400,000 visitors each year, according to its director, Srboljub Aleksić. This makes it one of the most visited paid institutions in Serbia.

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With pride, I can say that we are one of the most visited institutions in the city, and therefore probably in Serbia, where tickets are charged.

Aleksić expressed satisfaction with the visitor numbers but emphasized the need for continuous improvement and offering new attractions. The zoo is preparing to celebrate its 90th anniversary, marking the occasion with plans for significant development projects. These include the reconstruction of the monkey enclosure and the construction of a new veterinary clinic and an educational center.

Furthermore, the zoo is working towards full membership in the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA). Aleksić likened EAZA to a "European Union for zoos" and noted that most major zoos are members. Achieving this membership, expected by late 2026 or early 2027, will enable better cooperation with other European institutions.

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We have about 400,000 visits annually. We are satisfied, but we believe we must work, improve, and offer visitors something new and better.

In addition to these major projects, the zoo anticipates the arrival of four seals from Angola and a sloth from Athens within the anniversary year. Plans also include a new space for anteaters and improvements to bird enclosures located beneath the Kalemegdan Fortress walls.

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This is, simply put, like a European Union for zoos. Most significant zoos are members of that organization. We hope we will become a member, perhaps by the end of this year or the beginning of next.