Dyreparken is really several places behind one entrance: a zoo, an amusement park and, in season, a water park. That mix is why families end up staying the whole day, and why it pays to think about the date before you think about anything else.
The calendar is the big variable. The zoo side runs right through the year, but the water park keeps a summer season only, so a spring or autumn visit is a different day out from a July one – a full day still, just without the pools. During the Captain Sabertooth season the park also runs on into the evening, which changes what a late arrival is worth.
Food is flexible either way. There are several places to eat inside, and you are also allowed to bring your own and eat it at the benches and outdoor tables, which is the cheaper way to feed a group. Dogs and other pets cannot come into either park – worth knowing if you are arriving by car with one.
Wheelchairs can be rolled out into the indoor pool area, and when the outdoor section is open there is a ramp at Overfloden.
Family FAQ
What are the opening hours of Kristiansand Zoo and Amusement Park?
The zoo is open every day of the year; the water park runs a season from 9 May to 1 September.
Can you bring your own food to Kristiansand Zoo and Amusement Park?
You may bring your own food into both the zoo and the water park, and eat it at the benches and outdoor tables.
Is there baby changing at Kristiansand Zoo and Amusement Park?
The water park has its own accessible changing room with a height-adjustable changing table sized for bigger children and adults.


