ZooParc Overloon opens new Ngyuwe expedition area

ZooParc Overloon is opening its long-awaited Ngyuwe expedition area today. Last week, season pass holders were given an exclusive preview of the area. This summer, visitors can go on an expedition in this new section of the park, which is entirely dedicated to Tropical Africa.

The new Ngyuwe expedition area covers nearly two hectares and is home to no fewer than nineteen animal species, including the rare okapi. This endangered species can be seen at only three Dutch zoos. Visitors will also journey past species such as the pygmy hippopotamus, the brush-tailed pig, the yellow-backed loon, and the African crested porcupine. The endangered dril monkey will arrive in the area after the summer.

“The time has finally come, and we can show Ngyuwe to everyone,” says General Manager Roel Huibers. “Ngyuwe is a valuable addition to the park and fits perfectly within our vision for the future, in which we are increasingly focusing on visitor experience, education, and nature conservation.”

The new area features several covered locations where visitors can view the animals regardless of the weather conditions—ranging from a replica African boathouse to various indoor enclosures that are open to the public.

International Collaboration and Species Conservation

The animals at Ngyuwe come from various European zoos. Among others, an okapi arrived from Antwerp Zoo, a yellow-backed grebe from Frankfurt, and a pygmy hippopotamus from Sweden. These relocations are part of the European Endangered Species Program (EEP), which aims to maintain healthy, genetically diverse populations of endangered species in zoos. Through this collaboration, the participating zoos contribute to the survival of vulnerable species.

ZooParc is also committed to nature conservation through the Wildlife Foundation, with a focus this year on Tropical Africa. Funds are being raised for initiatives such as the Okapi Conservation Project, which works to protect the okapi’s natural habitat. Brush pigs and yellow-backed grebes also benefit from this conservation effort. Additionally, the foundation supports the IBREAM project, which conducts research on pygmy hippos in Ivory Coast.

An Expedition with Impact

Education plays an important role at Ngyuwe. In a recreated African village, visitors learn about bushmeat and threats to nature reserves in tropical Africa. They also receive tips on how to contribute to nature conservation themselves.

Zoological Manager Steven van den Heuvel: “We’re proud of what we’ve created here: a unique and educational expedition area where conservation and visitor experience go hand in hand. Thanks to our collaboration with other European zoos and international management programs, we can support endangered species and make a valuable contribution to their future. With Ngyuwe, we bring our visitors closer to these extraordinary and often vulnerable animals from Tropical Africa.”