Parc de Lunaret is Montpellier’s free zoo. It covers 80 hectares and is home to over 140 animal species. Its 11 km of paths make it one of France’s largest zoological parks. Open all year round, it’s a delight for families and nature lovers alike. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your visit from our Campsite in the Camargue.
Key points to remember
- Parc de Lunaret is a free zoo located north of Montpellier.
- It covers 80 hectares of nature and offers 11 km of marked trails.
- More than 140 species live here, including giraffes, lions, cheetahs, rhinoceroses and lemurs.
- The zoo is open all year round, except Mondays during school holidays.
- From Le Grau-du-Roi, it’s a 40-minute drive.
An 80-hectare zoo with free access
Parc de Lunaret is one of the few free zoos in France. Managed by the city of Montpellier, it welcomes hundreds of thousands of curious visitors every year. The site comprises 3 distinct areas. You’ll find the zoo, the Lez nature reserve and the Montmaur woods. Mediterranean garrigue landscapes accompany your stroll from start to finish! What’s more, a major renovation program aims to modernize the enclosures and enhance animal welfare.
What animals can you see at Parc de Lunaret?
Lunaret zoo is home to over 140 species from 5 continents. Among the most popular residents are giraffes, lions and cheetahs. The tour also takes you to rhinoceroses, brown bearsand gray wolves. Younger visitors often prefer the ever-active lemurs and otters. As for birdwatchers, they’ll love the cranes, ostriches and rheas!
The zoo also boasts an Amazonian greenhouse dedicated to tropical flora and fauna.
Our tip: remember to check the opening before your visit, as it undergoes regular work.
A successful family visit
Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your day at Parc de Lunaret.
The zoo offers 5 shaded picnic areas and playgrounds for children. Don’t forget to bring good shoes, as the trails are hilly. In fine weather, remember to bring water and sunscreen.
Here are our tips for a successful visit:
- Arrive as soon as the park opens to see the most active animals in the morning.
- Choose weekdays to avoid weekend crowds.
- Bring your own picnic to enjoy the dedicated areas in the park.
- Ask about our guided tours, which offer 4 themed routes.
Tip from the Jardins de Tivoli team: for a full day out, combine a visit to Lunaret Park in the morning with a stroll around Montpellier in the afternoon. The zoo’s paths are particularly pleasant early in the day, when the heat is still bearable. On the way back, enjoy the Camargue coastline to round off the day in style. It’s the ideal family outing from your Campsite in the Camargue!
Practical information
Before visiting Lunaret Park, here is some useful information:
- Dates and opening hours: the zoo opens from 9:30 am to 6:30 pm in summer, and from 10 am the rest of the year. It is closed on Mondays during the school year, but remains open on Mondays during public holidays and vacation periods.
- Address: the park is located at 50 avenue Agropolis, 34090 Montpellier, about 35 minutes from Le Grau-du-Roi.
- Admission: Lunaret zoo is completely free all year round.
- Contact details: you can reach the zoo on 04 67 54 45 23 or visit zoo.montpellier.fr.
- Services: the park has 5 picnic areas, several playgrounds and free parking.
Looking for an idea for a family outing in the south of France? The Lunaret zoo is just a 40-minute drive away. Book your stay at Campsite Les Jardins de Tivoli, your campsite near Montpellier, and enjoy an unforgettable nature getaway!
FAQ – Parc de Lunaret zoo
Is Lunaret really free?
Yes, Parc de Lunaret is entirely free. Access to the zoo is free all year round, without Book. Only the Amazonian greenhouse may be ticketed when open to the public.
What are the opening hours of the Lunaret zoo?
Lunaret Zoo opens its doors from 9:30 am to 6:30 pm in summer. The rest of the year, the zoo opens at 10 a.m. and closes at other times. The park is closed on Mondays, but remains open on public holidays and during school vacations.
How long does a visit to Parc de Lunaret last?
A visit to Lunaret Park lasts between 2 and 4 hours on average, depending on your pace. The site covers 80 hectares with 11 km of paths. Allow half a day if you wish to visit the whole zoo.
Is Lunaret zoo suitable for children?
Absolutely, Lunaret Zoo is perfectly suited to children of all ages. The park has several play areas and 5 picnic areas. Guided family tours are also available.
How do I get to Parc de Lunaret from Le Grau-du-Roi?
From Le Grau-du-Roi, you can reach Parc de Lunaret in around 35 minutes by road. The zoo is located north of Montpellier, at 50 avenue Agropolis. Free parking is available on site.
Sources :
- France 3 Occitanie, “Le zoo de Montpellier fête ses 60 ans” https://france3-regions.franceinfo.fr/occitanie/herault/montpellier/le-zoo-de-montpellier-fete-ses-60-ans-un-parc-gratuit-qui-veille-aujourd-hui-sur-le-bien-etre-animal-3045044.html
- Montpellier Tourisme, “Un petit tour au zoo de Lunaret” https://www.montpellier-tourisme.fr/sejourner/loisirs-et-activites/les-experiences-loisirs-a-vivre/un-petit-tour-au-zoo-de-lunaret/