One of the best things to do in Rotterdam with children is to visit Diergaarde Blijdorp. This is one of the oldest zoos in the Netherlands and has recently been voted the most beautiful zoo in the Benelux. We think it is the most beautiful zoo in the world.
Originally, the 1855 zoo was laid out at the Kruiskade as a bird garden, and a few years later it became a zoo. Because that location in the center became too expensive, and the municipality wanted to use the land, 1939 decided to move the zoo to the current location. Before the move was a fact, the old zoo in 1940 was hit by German bombs, many animals were killed and some even escaped.
The current location of Diergaarde Blijdorp opened in 1940 and was designed by Sybold van Ravesteyn. A forward-thinking mind, who especially wanted an open layout with as few fences as possible. You can still admire most of his buildings in the eastern part of the zoo. But Blijdorp never seems finished: over the years, the zoo has continued to build beautiful, conceptual enclosures - often with a very clear theme. And that vision pays off, because it is wonderful for people, and the animals seem to be having a good time too.
Blijdorp is divided into different continents. All continents are represented in the widely established zoo. It is great to see that the zoo is not a receptacle for different animal species, but the whole thing has been designed with fun, creativity and an eye for the animals. Monique Verhof, who lives near the zoo, comes there at least once a week with her grandson. “It is very nice for him to see the animals, and for me it is like taking a world trip in my own city every time.”
The silverback of the gorilla group in Blijdorp - Bokito - made the news in 2007 in a rather annoying way when he escaped from his enclosure. A visitor came to visit him regularly because she felt a special connection with him. Apparently this agitated Bokito in such a way that he jumped into the moat, pulled himself to the side and attacked her. The woman was seriously injured. Bokito instantly became world news, the word 'bokitoproof' made it to the Dikke van Dale and the silverback still adorns flags at matches of football club Feyenoord.
By the way, don't worry - Blijdorp has now secured the residence with a five-meter high rock wall, so the outbreak cannot be repeated.
Do not miss the Oceanium! This part of the zoo is the largest project that Blijdorp has ever realized, and is breathtaking. Especially the shark tunnel is special, because you walk around among the fish, starfish and other ocean animals. Please note that you do not go on weekends or on Wednesday afternoons, because crowds can be a huge noise.
