Zoo Bizar

The smallest zoo in the Netherlands! Inside an old Saxon farmhouse of Orvelete, Zoo Bizar has all kinds of critters from snakes to mice.

Want to see animals up close? The smallest zoo in the Netherlands, and maybe the smallest zoo in Europe, has everything you need to meet these unique animals. We all love to see elephants and polar bears at the zoo, but now the little guy is getting time to shine.

Zoo Bizar can be found in the village of Orvelte. Less than 100 people live here! They say it’s a “museum village” for its pretty Dutch architecture and classic look. There are also 3 museums here to see close by the zoo! You can easily plan a day out with the family here and learn more about Dutch culture in this hidden gem of a village. Zoo Bizar is one of the most interesting parts of Orvelte. Here’s why!

What to see at the zoo

• Throughout the day, a zookeeper gives talks all about the animals. These ‘Sense Presentations’ are more like a meet and greet. Mostly, the talks are in Dutch and act as a good intro for kids into the world of animals.
• Volunteer as tribute and you get to touch the shells and skin of some of the animals too. Sometimes you get to join in on the feedings as well, but it depends on the timing!
• How do you feel about spiders? Watch ‘em crawl up close… Or skip ahead to see the unusual Roos beetles, armadillos, snakes and much more.
• Some of the animals, like the armadillo, get to roam free. On quieter days at the zoo, you get a lot more interaction with the animals up close.
• It's a small museum, so you probably won’t need much more than an hour here.