Evening Walks at Budapest Zoo – Shark School Night in May

If you’re looking for a truly unique after-dark experience in Budapest, the Evening Walks at Budapest Zoo are unlike anything else the city has to offer. On May 14, 2026, the zoo opens its doors for an exclusive behind-the-scenes night tour — and this one has a spectacular theme: Shark School (Cápasuli).

What Is the Budapest Zoo Evening Walk?

The Evening Walks (Esti Séták) series invites small, intimate groups of visitors to explore parts of the Budapest Zoo that are completely off-limits during regular opening hours. Think hidden corridors, working facilities, and the fascinating daily life of the zoo’s dedicated staff — all after dark. It’s mysterious, adventurous, and genuinely eye-opening.

This is the first evening program of the 2026 season, running from 6:30 PM to 10:00 PM, and places are strictly limited, so early booking is strongly recommended.

Highlights of the Evening

The Veterinary Clinic

Step inside the zoo’s modern veterinary surgery — a facility that has come a long way since the zoo first opened its gates in 1866. Back then, zoo veterinary care was virtually non-existent; only in the early 1890s did the Budapest Zoo begin developing its animal health services. Tonight, you’ll get a private look at the clinic and have the chance to chat with one of the zoo’s own vets about exotic animal medicine.

The Hungária Horticulture Garden

The zoo’s botanical collection is a hidden gem that most visitors never fully appreciate. During this stop, a botanical specialist will walk you through the zoo’s internationally recognized exotic and succulent collection and give you a peek inside the background greenhouses — spaces the public never normally sees.

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Shark School (Cápasuli)

This is the star of the evening. But why “school”? Because the sharks on display are all young animals growing up in front of visitors’ eyes — and they’re literally being educated. They learn to coexist with other fish, get used to scuba-diving zoo staff in the water, and are trained to cooperate with keepers and vets through regular behavioral sessions. A marine biologist from the zoo’s team will be on hand to tell you all about it.

Food, Drinks & Extras

You won’t go hungry on this tour. At one of the zoo’s outdoor spaces (or indoors if it rains), the evening includes a sandwich dinner and a selection of warm and cold drinks. Every guest also receives a welcome gift bag — a backpack handed to you at the entrance so your hands stay free throughout the evening.

Practical Information for Visitors

Here’s everything you need to plan your visit smoothly:

• Date & Time: Thursday, May 14, 2026 | 6:30 PM – 10:00 PM
• Meeting Point: Gate next to the Körhinta (Állatkerti körút 14–16.)
• Exit Point: Revolving gate next to the Körhinta
• Ticket Price: 25,000 HUF per person
• Ticket Purchase: Online at tickets.zoobudapest.com or on-site via card payment (subject to availability)
• Group Size: Small, limited groups with zoo expert guides
• Tickets are non-refundable and cannot be exchanged for another date
• Please arrive on time — the group can only wait a maximum of 15 minutes

Getting There

• By public transport: Tram 72 trolleybus stops directly in front of the main zoo entrance; for the Körhinta gate, get off at Széchenyi fürdő
• By underground (metro): Millennium Underground (M1) to Széchenyi fürdő station
• By car: Paid parking available at ParkolóZoo or along Állatkerti körút

Accessibility

The following locations during the evening are accessible: the Veterinary Clinic and the Hungária Horticulture Garden. The accessible restroom is located at Mesterségek udvara (Crafts Courtyard).

Good to Know Before You Go

• Wear comfortable shoes and clothing — you’ll be walking for several hours across outdoor paths
• The walks take place rain or shine, so dress for the weather
• If you have any allergies that may affect your comfort during the tour, notify the organizers in advance at rendezveny@zoobudapest.com
• Zoo café and buffet units are not operating during the evening — but don’t worry, dinner is included

More Evening Walk Dates

The Shark School night is just one of several themed Evening Walks planned for the 2026 season. To explore all upcoming dates and themes, visit the official page.