The “Steirischer Landestiergarten” (the official name of the zoo, which is owned by the State of Styria) won over the public with its many attractions. Managing Director Doris Wolkner-Steinberger said, “We attribute the 11 percent increase in visitors to discount cards—such as the Genuss Card and the Steiermark Card—as well as to our dedicated marketing efforts.  The annual theme exhibitions are also well-received by visitors.” Since 2010, Herberstein has been following this concept; after “Africa” and “North America,” the 2012 program focused on “The Sacred Animals of the Incas.”

2013 annual theme: “Around the World in 80 Days”
140 years ago (when Jules Verne sent his hero Phileas Fogg around the world in just 80days), it was still a real challenge: traveling around the globe by train, steamship, and travel elephant, all five continents had to be visited in just 80 days.
“This year, we’re also inviting you on a world tour through the animal kingdom! On foot, visitors of all ages can explore every continent and learn fascinating facts about the history and realm of animals. We don’t need 80 days for this world tour—in the fastest case, it takes just 80 minutes—but those who want to take their time and ambitious ‘young explorers’ will spend more time on this journey through the animal world,” says Herberstein Marketing Director Michaela Frewein. Between April 1 and September 8, the annual theme “Around the World in 80 Days” is set to delight visitors.

Animal and Wildlife Park Under One Roof
At the same time, Doris Wolkner-Steinberger takes stock of the two tourist destinations under her leadership, Herberstein and Mautern: “A total of 250,000 guests visited our facilities last year. In 2011, the figure was 230,500—so there was also a slight increase in Mautern last year.”