Wild lights at Thoiry Zoo: a dazzling experience a stone’s throw from Paris
Immerse yourself in a magical world at Thoiry Zoo with the “Lumières Sauvages” event, where thousands of lanterns illuminate the park for an unforgettable night-time stroll.
Just 40 minutes from Paris, Thoiry ZooSafari offers a magical experience with its “Lumières Sauvages” festival. As soon as night falls, the park is transformed into a veritable light show, with light sculptures inspired by wildlife and enchanting landscapes. This event has become a must for all lovers of family outings, nature and the enchantment of light.
A magical walk in the heart of nature
The “Lumières Sauvages” trail allows visitors to discover more than 2,000 giant lanterns, spread out over an immersive 1.5 km path. Majestic animals such as lions, elephants and pandas are brought to life by impressive light structures. But it’s not just animals you’ll discover: fascinating landscapes, such as traditional Chinese gardens and floral settings, transport you into a magical, exotic world.
This unique visual experience, open in the evening, is ideal for families, couples or friends in search of wonder.
An artistic creation not to be missed
Chinese craftsmen, true masters of this ancestral tradition, create the lanterns for the “Lumières Sauvages” festival. The craftsmen meticulously handcraft each sculpture, offering an enriching aesthetic and cultural experience. This unique know-how gives life to strikingly detailed creations, lighting up the night in spectacular fashion.
These luminous works of art are part of a Chinese tradition that goes back centuries. Lantern festivals are celebrated in China to honor light and hope, and today, thanks to Thoiry Zoo, this cultural heritage is shared with the French public. For lovers of Asian culture, this nocturnal walk is an original way of discovering a fascinating aspect of China.
A sustainable and responsible business
Thoiry Zoo is also committed to ecological and sustainable development. In addition to offering an enchanting show, “Lumières Sauvages” is designed to have minimal environmental impact. The infrastructures used for the event are largely reusable, reducing the need for new resources. What’s more, they manage the electricity used to light the lanterns responsibly, to limit the festival’s carbon footprint.
This type of event is part of the zoo’s commitment to preserving biodiversity and raising public awareness of the beauty of nature. Thoiry also stands out for its animal conservation efforts, actively participating in several programs to save endangered species.
Practical information
The “Lumières Sauvages” festival takes place at Thoiry Zoo from October 29, 2023 to March 10, 2024. It’s advisable to book your tickets online in advance, as this event attracts many visitors, especially during school vacations. For those who want to extend the experience, the zoo also offers daytime visits where you can observe the park’s animals up close, and even go on a safari.
Just a few kilometers from Paris, Lumières Sauvages at Thoiry Zoo is the ideal way to recharge your batteries and experience a magical moment in the heart of nature. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to discover nature in a whole new light!
For more information, visit their official website and explore the park’s other activities.
