Wildlands

Description

If you ever find yourself in the north of the Netherlands, looking for a single spot where magic, adventure, and wildlife come together, let me point you to Wildlands in Emmen. Having made the trip myself, I can tell you that this is not your average zoo. It’s a sprawling attraction with immersive habitats, hands-on activities, and enough surprises to fill a day (or more!) with exploring and laughter.

The official name may not entirely give it away, but Wildlands offers far more than animal enclosures. Here, the whole family can walk freely among butterflies, cross suspension bridges above a simulated jungle, hop on a river expedition boat, or feel the adrenaline of a rollicking rollercoaster. For those traveling with younger explorers, there are dedicated play zones and interactive exhibits that are both exciting and educational.

Located right in the heart of Emmen, the park is carefully designed so you can journey through three themed worlds: Jungola (the jungle), Serenga (the savanna), and Nortica (the polar region). Each area completely transports you—at one moment, you’re the guest of a troop of ring-tailed lemurs; at the next, you’re watching sea lions splash beneath sparkling blue water. The attention to detail is remarkable, making every corner of Wildlands a new delight.

For convenience, you’ll find plenty of food stands with local and international bites, shaded spots to cool off, ample seating, and—importantly—wide, accessible paths suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. Whether you’re in it for a hands-on animal encounter or want to take in the sights at your own pace, there is so much to do in one place at Wildlands.

Key Features

• Walk-through Habitats: From wandering amongst free-flying butterflies to stepping into a savanna where giraffes and zebras roam, the animal experiences are truly immersive.
• Attraction Rides: The Tweedestrijd rollercoaster gets even adults laughing, and the serene boat tour through the jungle lets you spot wildlife from a unique vantage point.
• Butterfly House: Hundreds of butterflies flutter in the lush, tropical greenhouse—a quiet oasis perfect for a mid-day pause.
• Children’s Playgrounds: Thoughtfully placed play areas, including splash zones and climbing installations, keep children engaged and energized.
• Animal Encounters: Interactive zones let kids feel animal textures and get up close to animals under supervision, encouraging curiosity and compassion.
• Accessible Facilities: The entire park features wheelchair-accessible paths, entrances, and bathrooms, plus accessible parking close to the entrance.
• Diverse Food Options: Whether you’re in the mood for Dutch treats, healthy salads, or a more substantial lunch, you’ll find it at the food stands and cafés scattered throughout.
• Birthday Packages: Special packages are available if your visit is a birthday celebration, with decorated tables and activities for kids.
• Educational Activities: Seasonal programs and talks for children and adults make learning about conservation and animals genuinely enjoyable.
• Easy Payment Options: You can use credit cards, debit cards, or mobile payments throughout the park.

Best Time to Visit

Having visited during both spring and autumn, I can’t recommend these shoulder seasons enough. April through June and September to early October offer milder weather, fewer crowds, and vibrant animal activity. If you want lots of space to yourself in the playgrounds and shorter wait times for attractions, try a weekday outside of school holidays—the difference in atmosphere is notable!

Summer is lively, with extra entertainment and extended hours, but keep in mind that the Dutch sun can be surprisingly strong, and popular routes can get busy (especially around the boat tour embarkation). If you’re visiting with kids, afternoons tend to see more families, so aiming for a morning entrance can help you get ahead.

One lesser-known perk: in the late winter and early spring, the butterfly house is a cozy, warm retreat, even when it’s chilly outside. It’s also a good idea to check if there are special events or temporary exhibitions on the Wildlands calendar before you plan, as these can add a whole extra layer of fun to your visit.

How to Get There

Wildlands is superbly located in Emmen at Raadhuisplein 99. If you’re traveling by train (which I often do in the Netherlands), you’re in luck—the Emmen railway station is just a leisurely 10-minute walk from the park entrance. For those coming by car, the parking lot is spacious and includes designated, close-up spaces for accessible parking. Parking fees are charged per day, so it makes sense to arrive early and make the most of it.

Public buses from various regional towns also stop right next to the station. If you’re navigating with a GPS, just plug in the address and you’ll have no trouble. For cyclists (a very Dutch way to arrive!), the city center bike paths make it easy and safe to reach Wildlands, and there’s secure bike parking right in front.

If you’re flying into Amsterdam or Groningen, trains connect both airports to Emmen without much hassle. Allow for around two and a half hours from Amsterdam and just over an hour from Groningen. It’s a journey worth making—especially if you combine Wildlands with a broader tour of the Drenthe province.

Tips for Visiting

• Book tickets online in advance: Not only does this save time at the entrance, but you often get a small discount and can skip unexpected queues—especially during weekends or school vacations.
• Bring a change of clothes for kids: There are water play zones and interactive installations, so having dry clothes can be a real day-saver.
• Start your visit with the rides or boat tour: Lines are shorter earlier in the day, and you can loop back to the animal areas afterward without feeling rushed.
• Download the Wildlands app: It includes an interactive map, times for shows or feedings, and route suggestions if you want to maximize your time.
• Pack snacks and a water bottle: While food is available, bringing your own saves money and lets you picnic in one of the grassy relaxation areas.
• Don’t miss the butterfly house: It’s easy to walk by, but stepping inside is a tranquil, dreamlike break, especially if you need to escape a drizzle or warm up.
• Dress in layers: The Dutch climate is unpredictable, and many habitats are climate-controlled. A light jacket never goes amiss, even in summer.
• Keep your phone charged: In addition to snapping wildlife photos, you’ll want your device for following routes and possibly translating some signs into your own language.
• Make time for the educational corners: I found the conservation stories and animal talks surprisingly engaging—kids love the interactive displays.
• Leave enough time: Wildlands is bigger than it looks on the map. Give yourself at least a full day so you’re not rushed; with kids, that time flies by!

From the diversity of attractions to its accessibility and thoughtful design, Wildlands really does live up to its reputation of being a place where there is so much to do—all in one place. Whether you’re a parent, a wildlife fan, or just looking for a Dutch adventure off the classic tourist circuit, it delivers a day (or more) you won’t soon forget.