Servion Zoo: a beautiful nature outing for the family (Vaud)

A Wild Interlude Just Steps from Lausanne

In the Vaud countryside, the Servion Zoo offers a simple and refreshing immersion. It’s the kind of outing that pleases everyone: you walk at your own pace, observe, whisper, and marvel. The atmosphere is family-friendly, without fuss, and you can feel that the place is designed for curious children.

What Your Children Will Love

You follow shaded paths to discover big cats, wolves, lynxes, primates, ungulates, and birds. The enclosures are well-designed, with varied viewpoints. The youngest love to spot "their" favorite animal and read the simple signs to understand where it comes from and how it lives. You can also enjoy picnic areas and a playground, perfect for taking a break. Right next door, the Tropiquarium offers reptiles and tropical environments – handy if you still have energy left (separate tickets).

Why This Visit is Beneficial

It’s a calm and rejuvenating activity. You walk, observe, and learn. Children practice their patience, enrich their vocabulary, and develop empathy towards living beings. The educational signs feed curiosity, and the walk gently stimulates motor skills. The layout of the park allows you to adjust the duration according to age: plan for 2 to 3 hours to complete the tour without rushing.

Before You Go

• Ages: accessible from a very young age in a stroller; interesting up to 12 years old (and more for animal enthusiasts).
• Duration: 2–3 hours on average, longer if picnicking and playing.
• Nature of the activity: outdoor walk, calm and educational; moderate physical effort.
• Reservation: not necessary under normal circumstances; entry is paid (check current rates on the website).
• Accessibility: paths suitable for strollers; wheelchair access possible on most of the route.
• Transport: bus stop nearby; large free parking.
• What to bring: comfortable shoes, water bottles, and a small snack; depending on the season, sunscreen/hat or warm clothes and a windbreaker.
• Safety: enclosures and barriers are well marked; keep children close and follow instructions.
• Season: open all year round; in spring and autumn, the light is soft and animals are often active. In summer, prefer the morning; in winter, dress warmly.

Parents' Tips

• Arrive early on sunny weekends to enjoy the trails in peace.

• Take the tour at your own pace and save a surprise for the end (big cats, wolves, primates… depending on the children's interests).

• Consider the nearby Tropiquarium if the weather turns: perfect to complement the outing.

• Bring lightweight binoculars: children love to "play the keepers" from a distance.

• Wear clothes that "can get dirty": you walk, sit down, and picnic.

Useful Information

• Address: Route du Zoo 3, 1077 Servion (VD)
• Official website: https://www.zoo-servion.ch
• Hours: open every day; hours vary according to the season and light. Check the website before your visit.
• Ideal weather conditions: dry and mild weather. In summer, prefer the morning; in winter, plan for warm layers.
• Car access: 25–30 minutes from Lausanne via the Bern road, heading towards Mézières/Servion. Free parking on site.
• Public transport: CarPostal/regional buses, stop "Servion, Zoo," a few minutes' walk from the entrance.

Why We Recommend It

Because the Servion Zoo offers a true nature break, simple and well thought out for families. It cultivates curiosity, respect for living beings, and the joy of walking together. The size of the park is ideal for children, with enough diversity to captivate without exhausting them. And the proximity of the Tropiquarium allows you to adapt the outing according to the weather and energy levels.

In Two Words

A gentle, educational, and accessible outing to keep in mind all year round. Looking for more ideas near you? Create your Kidora account or subscribe to the newsletter to not miss out on great family activities in French-speaking Switzerland.