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Zoo · Mons, Hainaut
Pairi Daiza
A 75-hectare zoo and botanical garden in Brugelette, about 25 km from Mons, on the grounds of the former Cistercian abbey of Cambron. More than 7,000 animals in themed worlds representing Asia, Africa, the Americas and the polar regions.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Pairi Daiza
Pairi Daiza is in Brugelette, between Mons and Ath, on the grounds of the former Cistercian abbey of Cambron, founded in the 12th century. The park opened in 1993 under the name Paradisio and later adopted its current name, derived from an ancient Persian word for an enclosed garden. It now covers 75 hectares and houses over 7,000 animals.
The park is divided into themed worlds, with architecture and gardens reflecting each region: the Kingdom of the Middle, with Chinese temples and gardens; the Kingdom of Ganesha, inspired by Indonesia; the Land of Origins, African; the Cape of the South, Oceania; the Last Frontier, North America; the Land of Cold, with animals from the Arctic and Antarctic; and the Islands of the Rising Sun, Japanese, opened in 2024.
The ruins of the abbey of Cambron, with its tower and gardens, are part of the route. Animals include elephants, large felines, primates, bears and birds from various parts of the world, housed in spacious enclosures with careful landscaping.
The season typically runs from February through the end of January of the following year, with only a few days' pause between seasons. At the end of the year the park usually sets up winter lights and decorations.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
A whole day. The park is large and involves a lot of walking.
Best time
On weekdays outside Belgian school holidays there are fewer visitors. In the European spring and summer, from April to September, the days are long and the gardens are in bloom. At the end of the year the park usually features winter lighting. Check opening days and hours before you go.
How to get there
By train, Cambron-Casteau station on the Mons–Ath line is about 1.2 km from the entrance, via a signed path of roughly 20 minutes on foot. By car from Mons it is about 25 km via the E429 or local roads to Brugelette; follow the park signs near Gages.
Tip
Buy the ticket online: it entitles you to a discount on the SNCB train. Arrive early, wear comfortable shoes and bring a coat outside of summer, because almost everything is outdoors. Parking is paid.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Pairi Daiza
Can you go by train?
Yes. Cambron-Casteau station, on the line between Mons and Ath, is about 1.2 km from the entrance, roughly a 20-minute walk along a signposted path.
Is Pairi Daiza open in winter?
Yes, the park is usually open for most of the year, from February until the end of January the following year. In the European winter the days are short and cold. Confirm the dates before you go.
How long does the visit take?
A full day. If you want to see all the themed worlds at a relaxed pace you can stay overnight in one of the park's accommodations and return the next day.
How far is it from Mons and from Bruxelas?
About 25 km from Mons and around 60 km from Bruxelas by road.