Giza Zoo’s Renovation Plan Explained

The Giza Zoo is currently undergoing renovations following approval from Egypt's Supreme Council for Planning and Urban Development, with many details having recently been announced by the General Organization for Physical Planning.

The renovated zoo will be divided into segments named Africa, Asia, and America, where animals will be placed based on their continents of origin. Planned additions include safari areas, a bird aviary, and an elephant sanctuary. Interactive animal exhibitions are also part of the plan, along with an increase in the number of attractions from three to 14, including shows and educational centres for children. Nighttime experiences will be introduced as well to extend visiting hours.

The renovation project will improve walkways, water features and animal shelters. The project aims to preserve the zoo's historic trees, some of which are over 5,000 years old, and restore the zoo's historic gate and hanging bridge, which were designed by Gustave Eiffel over 150 years ago.

The project has received approval from various organisations, including the African Association of Zoos and Aquaria and the National Organization for Urban Harmony. While the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums dropped Giza Zoo’s membership in 2004, the organisation is now actively overseeing the renovation in cooperation with national Egyptian companies to ensure that the Giza Zoo meets international standards.

In July 2023, Giza Zoo - along with the neighbouring Orman Garden - closed their doors to make way for this 18-month-long renovation project.