Ireland's Wildest Attraction: Fota Wildlife Park

Fota Wildlife Park is Ireland's wildest attraction, which is on 100 acres of scenic Fota Island in the heart of Cork Harbour. This unique destination allows visitors to come face to face with free-roaming animals and birds worldwide. Whether a kangaroo hopping in front of you or a ring-tailed lemur jumping down from a tree, each visit promises fantastic memories.

Fota Wildlife Park. (C) Neil Danton (www.irishtimes.com)

Explore the Wonders of Fota Wildlife Park

Fota Wildlife Park features the recently opened Asian Sanctuary, home to Asian Lions, Sumatran Tigers, and Indian Rhinos. The cheetah run, tropical house, and giraffe crossing are also must-sees. The development of the Asian Sanctuary over the past five years has enhanced the park as an iconic international visitor attraction, serving the core values of conservation, education, and research.

Facilities and Accessibility

The park offers a range of facilities, including cafés, several play areas, picnic spots, and a gift shop. Fota Wildlife Park is accessible by both train and car, making it easy for visitors to reach this incredible destination. The park is open to visitors from 9:30 am, and tickets can be purchased on entry.

Ticket Prices

  • Adults: €20.90

  • Children (Under 16): €14.40

  • Students (with valid student card): €15.60

  • Seniors (65+): €15.60

  • Toddlers (Up to 36 months): Free

Getting to Fota Wildlife Park

  • By Road: From the N25 Cork to Waterford road, take the exit for Cobh (R624) and follow the signs for Fota Wildlife Park.

  • By Rail: At Kent Station (or Cobh Station), access the Cork-Cobh line. Fota Wildlife Park has its own train station. For more information and to book train tickets, visit Irish Rail.

Fota Wildlife Park (C) www.discoverireland.ie

Nearby Accommodation and Hotels

While Fota Wildlife Park does not offer accommodation options, there are many hotels near Fota Wildlife Park within the Cork Harbour Islands, Cork City, Midleton, and the wider East Cork area. Visitors can enjoy a comfortable stay while exploring the park and its surroundings.

Important Information

Cyber Attack Notice:

Fota Wildlife Park has experienced a cyber attack and is currently investigating the incident. If you carried out a financial transaction on their website from 12 May 2024 – 27 August 2024, contact your bank to cancel your credit/debit card.

Park Hours:

  • Open: Monday - Sunday : 9:30 am

  • Park Closes: 4:30 pm

  • Last Entry: 3:00 pm (3:30 PM for Annual Pass Holders)

Parking:

The car park is run by Fota House and Gardens, with a €3 charge that goes towards the upkeep of Fota House and Gardens.

Visitor Guidelines:

Bikes, scooters, skateboards, and other forms of personal transport are not permitted in the park.

Dogs, including guide dogs and assistance animals, are not allowed inside the park.

Feeding the animals is generally not permitted, except for duck food available at the lake area.

Plan Your Visit

Get your day out off to the best possible start by buying your Fota Wildlife Park tickets or membership ahead of time to avoid the queues. Most visitors spend around 2.5 – 3 hours in the park, but this can vary. Enjoy the beauty of Ireland's wildest attraction and create unforgettable memories at Fota Wildlife Park.

Reviews and Experiences

Visitors rave about their experiences at Fota Wildlife Park. The park receives glowing reviews from diverse wildlife to well-maintained facilities. Whether you're a wildlife enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply looking for a fun day out, Fota Wildlife Park is a must-visit destination.

Plan your visit today and discover the wonders of Fota Wildlife Park, Ireland's premier wildlife attraction.

Official Website: fotawildlife.ie

Fota Wildlife Park Map

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Damith Danthanarayana

I am Damith Danthanarayana, basically a Mechanical Engineer from Sri Lanka.

Photography is my passion but not my profession. Since 2015, nature, wildlife and macro photography has been a major part of my life.

https://www.damithdanthanarayana.com/
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