The park is open every day
10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
How can you get up close and personal with animals
in the Île-de-France region?
in the Île-de-France region?
Getting Close to Animals in Île-de-France: the best experiences around Paris
Whether you’re looking for an outdoor activity, a fun outing for the kids, or a special opportunity to interact with animals, the Île-de-France region offers unique experiences that go far beyond a simple visit to a wildlife park.
Just a few miles from Paris, you can observe, get up close to, and sometimes even interact with different species in a supervised and educational setting.
In this article, we’ll tell you where to get up close with animals in Île-de-France, and which activities let you build a real connection with them!
Whether you’re looking to get up close with animals in the Île-de-France region or find an animal-related activity near Paris, Parrot World is just 45 minutes from Porte de Bercy—the region’s most immersive nature destination.
1. The "Zookeeper for a day" Experience
Do you dream of petting capybaras? Head to Parrot World!
Capybaras are among the park’s most beloved animals, thanks to their peaceful and curious nature. The “Zookeeper for a Day” activity allows visitors to enjoy a truly special encounter with them:
- a respectful approach to the capybaras
- supervised preparation of their food
- exploring their social behaviors
- direct interaction with an animal handler
Few animal parks in France offer such a special opportunity to interact with the animals, making this a unique experience in the Île-de-France region for safely and educationally engaging with wildlife!
2. Feeding the penguins
Make your dream come true by getting up close to the penguins
At Parrot World, visitors have the unique opportunity to help feed the penguins alongside the keepers through the "Feed the Penguins" activity. This guided experience allows you to:
give them their favorite food
observe their behavior during mealtime
to better understand their social structure
learn how the keepers ensure their well-being
This feeding session is one of the most interactive experiences at the park and makes for a truly animal-focused family outing. It’s the perfect activity for a family outing with animals near Paris.
Eric Vignot, Founding President of Parrot World
Interview in Le Figaro
3. Espace Rambouillet
Observing wildlife in its natural habitat
Espace Rambouillet, located in the Yvelines department, is a unique destination in the Île-de-France region for observing wild animals in their natural habitat. Here, visitors encounter the animals without any artificial barriers: families can stroll through the heart of the forest and catch a glimpse of iconic European wildlife species!
This nature outing is ideal for teaching children about the forest ecosystem, respect for living things, and the importance of local biodiversity. An educational and soothing immersion, just a few kilometers from Paris, that reconnects young and old alike with the wild.
4. Noah's World
A unique urban experience with animals
Located in the heart of Paris, Le Monde de Noé offers a unique alternative to traditional animal parks: an immersive urban experience that allows visitors to interact with rescued animals in a caring and educational setting.
Here, you can pet, observe, and interact with domestic animals accustomed to human contact, discover animal-assisted therapy, participate in educational workshops, and share a heartwarming moment with your children. This outing is perfect for city dwellers seeking nature and for families looking for an accessible activity without leaving the capital!
5. Caring for Land Tortoises
NEW FOR 2026
Check out our new activity, "Feed the Turtles"
In 2026, Parrot World will offer a new immersive experience centered on land tortoises, designed especially for families and nature lovers. This special "Feed the Tortoises" experience will allow visitors to:
gently brush the turtles’ shells
participate in supervised feeding
understand their biological rhythms and incredible longevity
discover their ecological role and importance in biodiversity
Led by an animal educator, this educational experience will offer a rare opportunity to connect with this endearing species.
See also:
FAQ
Where can I get close to animals near me in the Île-de-France region?
Parrot World, located in Crécy-la-Chapelle (77), is accessible from anywhere in the Île-de-France region
in less than 1 hour and 15 minutes. From Paris: 45 minutes. From the 93: 50 minutes. From the 94: 40 minutes.
From the 95: 1 hour. Free on-site parking.
Is it allowed to touch and feed animals in the Île-de-France region?
Yes to Parrot World — the "Zookeeper for a Day" experience lets you feed capybaras, giant otters, and coatis in small groups. The "Penguin Feeding" activity lets you participate in feeding behind the scenes. The "Turtle Feeding" activity lets you get up close and personal with land tortoises.
What's the best activity for interacting with animals with children near Paris?
The Junior Zookeeper program is designed for children ages 7 to 11—a self-guided morning activity with alpacas, capybaras, and coatis, with no adult supervision required. For families, the Caretaker for a Day program welcomes children ages 8 and up accompanied by an adult.