The key factors behind this outstanding result were not only ideal weather for outings but also a significant increase in the number of annual pass holders. After all, 71% of visitors come from Styria—the positioning as a “zoo for the people of Styria” has been successful and once again underscores its high appeal as a family destination in the region.

“The visitor numbers are first and foremost a tribute to the work of Doris Wolkner-Steinberger and her team and prove that the investments made in recent years have paid off,” said Dr. Christian Buchmann, State Councilor for Economic Affairs.

Preparations for the upcoming “Year of Africa” in 2017 are already underway. The existing lion enclosure is currently being renovated and expanded—in the spring, a one-year-old lion will move into “Eastern Styrian Africa.” As another highlight, a Herberstein fan trip to Namibia will take place for the first time in cooperation with Retter Reisen.