While the kids had a birthday party to attend, I decided to take advantage of having some free time and visit the Haganback Tropical Aquarium on my own. Right beside the zoo, it was just a five-minute walk from my Airbnb. It turned out to be another highlight of my time in Hamburg!
What made this zoo particularly interesting was how different it was from many of the zoos and aquariums I've visited. Rather than the usual modern-looking displays, plain tanks and concrete surroundings, the experience started with what felt like stepping straight into a tropical jungle. There were lush plants everywhere, along with lemurs, colourful birds, reptiles, crocodiles and all sorts of other creatures.
As you continued through the exhibits, the whole atmosphere changed. Suddenly, it felt as though you were entering a submarine, with portholes providing views into the underwater world.
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| This display was explaining the colors of coral. |
Eventually, you came around to a huge feature tank, where you could actually see the submarine structure from the outside. It was a really clever way of designing the exhibits and made the whole experience much more immersive.
Even the cafeteria carried on the jungle theme, with plenty of tropical plants, wooden tables and chairs. And, surprisingly for a zoo or aquarium, it looked like a reasonably appealing café rather than the usual selection of somewhat uninspiring zoo food!
One thing they certainly don't take lightly is their crocodile safety precautions! Some of the warning signs were humorous but, at the time time, serious.
It was a really enjoyable way to spend a few hours!
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