Vivarium de Meyrin
Looking for an unusual nature outing with the kids, just a stone's throw from Geneva? The Vivarium of Meyrin is home to over 200 reptiles from around the world, to be discovered in warmth, sheltered, and in any weather.
A Fascinating Dive into the World of Reptiles
The Vivarium of Meyrin is a unique place in the canton of Geneva. Managed by the Elapsoïdea Association, it brings together over 200 animals from around the world, spread across about 50 species. Snakes, turtles, caimans, and other reptiles await you in a series of landscaped terrariums, recreated to resemble their natural habitat. It's an ideal outing when you're looking for a different idea, sheltered and accessible by public transport from Geneva.
What Your Children Will Discover
The visit takes place over two floors, with around seventy carefully decorated terrariums. Your children will be able to observe closely animals that are not encountered every day.
- Snakes of various sizes and colors, in settings that mimic forests, deserts, or wetlands
- Turtles, including aquatic turtles
- Caimans, both young and adults, always impressive to see
- A wide variety of other reptiles from all corners of the world
It's a great opportunity to talk with them about nature, habitats, and respect for animals.
What You Can Do There and the Atmosphere on Site
The atmosphere is calm and conducive to observation. You move from one terrarium to another at your own pace, taking the time to search for the sometimes well-camouflaged animal in its setting. On weekends, animal feedings are offered in the early afternoon: this is often the highlight of the visit for children. The Vivarium also organizes guided tours, activities for young people, and hosts children's birthdays. To know the exact program and feeding times, it's best to check the official website before coming.
Before You Go
- Recommended age: from 6 years old, but younger curious ones accompanied also find it enjoyable
- Duration: plan for about one hour to one and a half hours depending on the children's interest
- Reservation: not necessary for a free visit; required for a guided tour or a birthday (see the official website)
- Stroller accessibility: the visit takes place over two floors, inquire in advance if you are coming with a stroller
- Transport: tram 14 and 18 or bus 57, stop Jardin-Alpin-Vivarium, a few minutes on foot
- To bring: something to hold the youngest by the hand, as the environment is calm and requires respect for the animals
- Ideal season: all year round, as the visit takes place entirely indoors
Parent Tips
- Aim for a weekend to enjoy the animal feeding, a real highlight
- Combine the outing with a walk at the nearby Alpine Botanical Garden when the weather permits
- Explain to the children before entering that we observe in silence and without tapping on the glass
- Check the schedule on the official website, which varies according to school holidays
Useful Information
- Address: Rue du Cardinal-Journet 32A, 1217 Meyrin (canton of Geneva)
- Official website: https://vivariumdemeyrin.ch
- Hours: see the official website (hours change especially during school holidays)
- Access: tram 14 and 18 or bus 57, stop Jardin-Alpin-Vivarium
Why We Recommend It
Because it’s an original outing, sheltered and easily accessible from Geneva, that differs from usual activities. The Vivarium sparks children's curiosity about the animal world while remaining accessible and welcoming. A great idea for an afternoon, especially when the weather isn't suitable for outdoor activities.
In Two Words
A fascinating place to discover reptiles and amphibians just steps from Geneva, sheltered and in any weather. Ideal for an original nature outing with family.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Vivarium of Meyrin suitable for young children?
How to get to the Vivarium of Meyrin by public transport?
What animals can be seen at the Vivarium of Meyrin?
What are the hours and the prices?
Can we attend the feeding of the animals?
Is the visit conducted indoors?
Can we celebrate a birthday at the Vivarium of Meyrin?
Michael @ Kidora
Kid Adventure Planner
Location
Meyrin
Geneva
Rue du Cardinal-Journet 32A, 1217 Meyrin
Nearby
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