Top 5 Best Photography Spots Inside Plzeň Zoo
Finding the best photography spots inside Plzeň Zoo is essential for any traveler visiting the Czech Republic in 2026. This unique zoo combines botanical gardens with animal habitats to offer stunning visual opportunities for all camera types. You can capture exotic wildlife and lush greenery while exploring the various Plzeň Zoo scenic viewpoints throughout the park.
The African Savanna Overlook
The African Savanna section provides some of the best photography spots inside Plzeň Zoo for wildlife lovers. You will find giraffes and zebras roaming across wide open spaces that mimic their natural desert environment. These animals are most active during the early morning hours when the zoo first opens its gates.
Use a long telephoto lens to capture intimate portraits of the animals without distracting fences in your frame. The absence of heavy bars makes this area a favorite for professional photographers visiting the region. You can easily isolate your subjects against the natural backdrop of the Lochotín hillside.
Visit during the golden hour to get warm light reflecting off the tall grasses and sandy terrain. This lighting creates a soft glow that enhances the textures of the animal skins and the surrounding foliage. Your photos will look like they were taken in the heart of Africa rather than central Europe.
Tropical Pavilion Macro Opportunities
Head inside the tropical pavilions to discover vibrant colors and intricate details perfect for macro photography fans. These indoor spaces house exotic butterflies and colorful reptiles that stay active throughout the entire year. You can find more information about the regional climate on the Plzeň Region official site before your visit.
Ensure your camera lens is clean to handle the high humidity found within these lush rainforest environments. The moisture can cause fogging on your glass if you move too quickly from the cold outdoor air. Allow your equipment to acclimate for several minutes before you start snapping your professional macro shots.
The pavilions feature a variety of tropical plants that serve as beautiful natural backgrounds for your animal portraits. Look for interesting leaf patterns and bright flowers that can add a pop of color to your compositions. This area is ideal for capturing the smaller wonders of the natural world up close.
The Bear Forest and Forest Trails
The large bear enclosures offer a rugged forest backdrop that looks incredible in professional nature photographs. Brown bears move through dense trees which provides a sense of scale and wildness to your images. Patience is key here as the bears often rest in shaded areas during the hottest parts of the day.
Check out the DinoPark Plzeň view from Lochotín Park for nearby elevated angles of the zoo. This higher vantage point allows you to see the forest enclosures from a unique and dramatic perspective. You can capture the bears as they interact with their natural environment from above.
The forest trails winding through this section offer many candid moments for photographers who enjoy a walk. You might spot smaller woodland creatures or unique bird species nesting in the tall trees along the path. Keep your camera ready as these quick animals often appear when you least expect them.
Japanese Garden Zen Perspectives
The Japanese garden inside the zoo grounds offers a peaceful break from the busy animal exhibits. Stone lanterns and carefully pruned trees create a serene atmosphere that is ideal for landscape photography. This area is particularly beautiful in 2026 when the spring blossoms or autumn leaves change the color palette.
For other high-altitude shots, consider visiting the Sylvan observation tower guide for panoramic city views. The garden itself provides a perfect foreground for shots that emphasize peace and natural balance. Use a wide-angle lens to capture the entire layout of the ponds and stone paths.
Early morning visits to the Japanese garden ensure you avoid the large crowds of tourists and school groups. The still water in the ponds creates perfect reflections of the traditional architecture and the surrounding greenery. It is one of the most tranquil spots for creative photography in the whole city.
Island Habitats for Water Reflections
Several primate species live on islands surrounded by water which creates beautiful reflections for your photos. These open-air habitats allow for clear sightlines without the glare of glass or metal mesh obstructions. Capture the lemurs or monkeys as they play near the water's edge for dynamic and engaging wildlife shots.
You can find more travel tips for the area on the Visit Czechia tourism portal. The water acts as a natural barrier that keeps the animals safe while providing photographers with clean backgrounds. This setup is perfect for achieving a professional look with minimal effort in post-processing.
Try to position yourself so the sun is behind you to illuminate the animals and their reflections. The movement of the water adds a sense of life and energy to your still photographs. These island exhibits are among the most popular spots for capturing active animal behavior in the zoo.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time for photography at Plzeň Zoo?
Morning light is best for capturing active animals and avoiding heavy crowds near the popular exhibits. The zoo opens at 8:00 AM which provides the perfect lighting for your professional wildlife portraits. Plan to spend at least four hours exploring the different zones for the best results.
Are tripods allowed inside the zoo grounds?
Yes, tripods are allowed but you must ensure they do not block the main walking paths for others. Monopods are often a better choice for mobility when moving between the various indoor and outdoor exhibits. Always respect the space of other visitors while setting up your professional camera equipment.
Where can I see the best city views from the zoo?
The upper slopes of the zoo offer incredible vistas of the city skyline and the cathedral tower. You can also find best city views in Plzen by visiting the historic center after your zoo trip. These elevated spots provide a unique perspective of the surrounding Plzeň Region landscape.
Plzeň Zoo offers an incredible variety of subjects for photographers of all skill levels to enjoy in 2026. From the African savanna to the peaceful Japanese garden, you will find endless inspiration for your next project. Grab your camera and explore these stunning spots to capture the natural beauty of the Czech Republic today.
Official resources
Use these sources for official schedules, tickets, routes, and updates.
- Visit Plzeň — Official city tourism board; unverified source.
- City of Plzeň — Official municipal portal; unverified source.
- Visit Czechia — National tourism board; unverified source.
- Lonely Planet — Major international travel guide; unverified source.
- Pilsner Urquell Brewery — Primary industrial heritage site; unverified source.