Located near Salon de Provence, the Zoo de la Barben is a real gem in the heart of the region. It is the largest animal park in Provence, home to over 700 animals of 130 different species. Open all year round, the site also features playgrounds, picnic areas and a restaurant. Between Marseille and Avignon, a visit to the zoo offers an unforgettable day out for the whole family.
Presentation of the La Barben Animal Park
The La Barben Animal Park extends over 33 hectares of Mediterranean vegetation, offering an exceptional natural setting. Visitors can explore 9 km of shaded paths, ideal for a pleasant stroll while discovering the animals.
There's no shortage of activities, including free-flying bird displays and meetings with the park's caretakers. These special moments allow you to learn more about the species and their way of life.
To make your visit more comfortable, a small train is available, making it easier to get around the park. Families will also appreciate the playgrounds and picnic areas, perfect for a relaxing break.
New this year: the Komodo monitor, which fascinates young and old alike.
Zoo location and access
Address and directions from Marseille, Aix en Provence and Avignon
To reach the Zoo de la Barben from Marseille, take the A7 freeway towards Lyon, then the A54 towards Arles. Take exit 15 “Salon-Centre / Pélissanne” and follow the signs to Pélissanne. The journey takes about 45 minutes.
From Aix-en-Provence, take the D7N towards Avignon, then in the center of Saint-Cannat, take the D572. The zoo is a 30-minute drive away.
For visitors coming from Avignon, take the A54 towards Marseille, exit at Salon-Pélissanne (exit 15) and follow the signs. The journey takes about 50 minutes.
A large, free 500-space parking lot is available at the entrance to the park. For your convenience, use the GPS coordinates: latitude 43.6235 | longitude 5.2058. You can also book a VTC with Marseille Evasion Drivers for hassle-free transportation.
Practical information for visitors coming from Nîmes
To reach Zoo de la Barben from Nîmes, take the A54 freeway towards Salon-de-Provence. Exit at junction 14 “Salon, Pélissanne” and follow the signs to Pélissanne. The journey takes about an hour.
If you prefer public transport, a bus service is available only during the summer, All Saints' and spring school vacations. These buses depart mainly from Salon-de-Provence and Pélissanne.
When you arrive, take advantage of the large, free 500-space parking lot at the entrance to the park. Don't forget to check the Zoo de la Barben website for the latest information and to buy your tickets online, which will save you time.
Entrance ticket prices
Individual and group ticket prices
Zoo de la Barben ticket prices vary according to the age and situation of visitors. For adults aged 13 and over, the price is €21. Children aged 3 to 12 benefit from a reduced rate of €15. Admission is free for children under 3 on presentation of proof of age.
Special rates are available for groups of more than 20 people. Schools, local authorities and associations can also benefit from special discounts.
Subscription cards are available, offering unlimited access to the park for one year. The cost is €60 for adults and €40 for children under 12.
Disabled people benefit from a reduced rate of €12, with children up to 12 free. Post-graduate students and job-seekers pay €16.
Remember to book your ticket online to avoid queuing.
Opening times
Zoo de la Barben is open every day of the year, including public holidays. Opening times vary according to the season:
January and February: 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
March to June: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
July and August: 9am to 7pm
September to October: 10am to 6pm
November and December: 10 am to 5:30 pm
To make the most of your visit, we advise you to come early in summer, as the animals are most active in the morning. The ticket offices close one hour before the park. If you want to spend a full day, allow at least four hours to discover all the wonders of the park. For more information or to book, call 04 90 55 19 12.
Animals in the park
Discover the species at Zoo de la Barben
La Barben Zoo is home to an incredible wealth of over 130 different species. Among the most impressive mammals are Asian elephants and majestic lions.
Reptile enthusiasts can admire dwarf crocodiles and exotic snakes. And birds are not to be outdone, with spectacular specimens such as the red ibis and the helmeted cassowary. Each enclosure is designed to recreate the animals' natural habitat, ensuring their optimum well-being.
For the more curious, informative panels detail the characteristics and behaviors of each species. Don't miss the free-flying bird shows, a magical moment when eagles and vultures soar through the Provencal skies. Younger visitors will also appreciate the mini-farm, where they can get up close to ponies and goats.
The zoo's commitment to protecting endangered species
The Zoo de La Barben does more than just exhibit animals. It is actively involved in the preservation of endangered species. For example, the park participates in European breeding programs (EEP) and studbook programs (ESB). These programs are essential for the reproduction and preservation of the most vulnerable species.
The zoo also collaborates with other institutions and zoos around the world. This collaboration enables the exchange of animals to maintain genetic diversity and strengthen captive populations.
In addition, the park has created the Ecofaune association to promote and support actions to protect species and their habitats. This initiative raises funds from the public and businesses, enabling conservation projects to be financed.
Awareness-raising days are organized on a regular basis to inform visitors about biodiversity issues.
Park services
Catering: snacks and other options
The Zoo de la Barben offers several catering options to suit all tastes. The Bistrot du Zoo is an excellent alternative for those who prefer a gourmet break in a charming setting. Housed in a former farm building, this restaurant serves home-cooked meals using seasonal produce.
For a quick meal, head to “La Paillotte”, where you'll find a variety of options:
Steaks/frites
Crêpes
Sandwiches
Ice cream
This paillotte is ideal for a lunch break with family or friends. For fast-food fans, the zoo's snack bar also serves crêpes and burgers.
Visitors can thus enjoy a meal without leaving the park, and extend their unforgettable experience in the heart of Provencal nature.
Playgrounds and picnic areas
Zoo de la Barben's play areas are specially designed for children of all ages. They include a variety of structures, such as slides, swings and adapted adventure courses.
For a moment's rest, picnic areas are scattered throughout the park. They are equipped with tables and benches in the shade, perfect for a family lunch break.
Families can also cool off in the misters installed near the play areas.
For an even more pleasant experience, water fountains are available nearby, making it easy to stay hydrated throughout the day.
Finally, visitors can use the little train to reach the various picnic and play areas, making the visit more comfortable for all.
La Barben castle near the park
The Château de la Barben, close to the park, is also well worth a visit. This thousand-year-old castle, perched on a rocky spur, offers a majestic setting and breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
You can explore the formal gardens designed by Le Nôtre, a must for botany enthusiasts. The château also offers guided tours to immerse you in its rich and fascinating history. These tours are enhanced by historical shows, such as battle re-enactments and scenes from daily life in different eras.
For families, the Rocher Mistral, located within the château, offers captivating shows and a variety of entertainment: stunts, comedy and dance.
Visitors can also enjoy night-time entertainment, which illuminates the castle in a magical atmosphere.
Visitor opinions and feedback
Visitors' opinions of Zoo de la Barben are generally very positive. Many praise the cleanliness of the facilities and the diversity of the animals present. Families particularly appreciate the children's areas, such as the playgrounds and misters.
Some visitors find the activities, such as the bird show, very rewarding. They also emphasize the quality of the welcome and services offered.
However, a few criticisms concern enclosures deemed too small or lacking in water, particularly for certain animals. Other visitors mention problems with online ticketing, but these incidents remain rare.
In short, the Zoo de la Barben offers a very satisfactory overall experience, especially for a family outing, despite a few points for improvement mentioned.
Length of visit: how long should you allow?
To get the most out of your visit to the Zoo de la Barben, allow at least 4 hours. This will allow you to discover all the 130 species spread over 33 hectares.
If you want to explore every nook and cranny of the park and take part in all the activities, we recommend spending the whole day. You'll also have time to take a lunch break in one of the restaurants, such as “La Paillotte” or “Le Bistrot du Zoo”.
For families, planning a full day is ideal. There are playgrounds and picnic areas dotted around the park. At the end of the day, a visit to the nearby Château de la Barben will round off your outing.