Spring Guided Tours of the Bonsai Collection at Zoo Ostrava

Zoo Ostrava runs guided tours of its bonsai collection and greenhouse complex every weekend from April, with departures at 11:00 and 14:00. Groups meet at the flamingo enclosure near the zoo entrance, from where the guide leads them to the greenhouses and botanical backstage area. Tours last approximately 1.5 to 2 hours and are included in the regular zoo admission. Capacity is limited — advance booking is required through the online reservation system; on the day of the tour you can also call +420 596 241 269 or ask at the gatehouse.

The bonsai and ornamental tree collection comprises around 80 specimens representing nearly 50 species — deciduous and coniferous, exotic and native. Most trees are 40–50 years old, with some estimated at 90–100 years. The oldest specimen is a common yew planted in 1920, closely followed by a European olive from 1928. The collection also includes a fruiting apple tree, azaleas, a holly oak, and an African acacia. During the warmer months the bonsai are displayed in the botanical exhibition Garden Art of the Far East, just inside the zoo entrance; part of the collection is accessible only on the guided tours in the botanical backstage area.

The tour also takes in a 2,000 m² greenhouse complex growing tropical and subtropical plants used to decorate and maintain the zoo's animal enclosures, as well as a collection of tropical and subtropical fruits, vegetables, herbs, and spices.