Planete Exotica in Royan

Discover the Tropical Paradise at the Heart of the Atlantic Coast

Located on the French Atlantic coast, the zoo is much more than just a botanical garden. It’s an enchanted world where nature reigns supreme and where visitors can discover an incredible variety of animals, plants, and entertaining activities. Let’s dive into this exotic world and discover what Planet Exotica has to offer.

A Brief History of the Amusement Park

The history of the amusement park dates back to the late 20th century, when enthusiasts of botany and ecology joined forces to create a unique space dedicated to the preservation of global biodiversity. After years of planning and hard work, the park opened its doors in 2004, welcoming visitors from around the world.

Marc Jaeger, the visionary behind the 2014 takeover of Jardins du Monde—which became Planet Exotica in Royan—embodies a spirit of dedication to the preservation of global biodiversity. Born in the Royan region, Marc Jaeger grew up with a deep passion for nature and the life sciences. Since childhood, he has explored distant lands—particularly Africa, including Tanzania and Kenya—as well as other destinations such as Asia and Australia. He developed a passion for reptiles and became an ‘expert’ in herpetology (the study of reptiles). After earning his degree in biology and ecology, he dedicated his life to creating a unique natural sanctuary that celebrates the richness of flora and fauna from around the world. With a clear vision and unwavering determination, Jaeger played a pivotal role in founding Planet Exotica in 2004, bringing together experts in botany and zoology to create a haven of biodiversity in the heart of the Atlantic coast. His commitment to conservation and environmental education has been the driving force behind the park’s growth and ongoing success; today, it welcomes thousands of visitors each year. Marc Jaeger remains an iconic figure in the Royan community, inspiring future generations to protect and appreciate the fragile beauty of our planet.

The Fauna of Planete Exotica

As they stroll through the paths of the wildlife park, visitors can encounter a wide variety of fascinating animals, each representing a specific region or ecosystem of the world. Notable residents include:

• The brightly-colored macaws enchant visitors with their melodious calls and aerial acrobatics.
• Chameleons are masters of camouflage, skillfully blending into their environment.
• Lemurs, the mischievous primates native to Madagascar, charm viewers with their unique facial expressions.

Amazing Flora 

The botanical gardens are brimming with rare and exotic plants, offering visitors a real outdoor botany lesson. Among the plant treasures to be discovered are :

• Orchids in breathtaking shapes and colors, some resembling butterflies in flight.
• Bromeliads, which form veritable miniature ecosystems with their bowl-shaped leaves.
• Impressive cacti, witnesses to the arid landscapes of deserts around the world.

Activities 

In addition to exploring the flora and fauna, Planet Exotica offers a range of exciting activities to entertain visitors of all ages. Popular activities include:

• Guided tours, during which experts share fascinating anecdotes about the park's inhabitants and their habitat.
• Gardening workshops, where visitors can learn the secrets of growing exotic plants and leave with their own creation.
• Animal shows, featuring demonstrations of natural behaviors and entertaining interactions with Planet Exotica’s feathered and furry residents.

Conclusion

Planet Exotica à Royan est bien plus qu’une simple attraction touristique. C’est une immersion totale dans la beauté et la diversité du monde naturel, où chaque visiteur est invité à explorer, apprendre et s’émerveiller. Que vous soyez passionné de nature ou simplement en quête d’une escapade exotique, Planet Exotica promet une expérience inoubliable au cœur de la côte atlantique française.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]

The different areas of Planet Exotica

Animal areas

The park features three areas dedicated to learning about animals: the reptiles and amphibians area, the insects and invertebrates area, and the mammals area.

The first two areas are indoors, and feature a trail that allows visitors to discover and observe both the best-known and the strangest of these animals.

The mammal exhibit is located outdoors and lets you experience Planète Exotica in a whole new light.

The nursery

The park features a nursery where newborn animals can be observed. A treat for children and grown-ups alike!

The Indian village

The Indian village is located outside, across from the animal areas. In addition to teepees, you can enjoy a horse show during the season.

The dinosaur park

The dinosaur park is located outdoors, near the animal areas and the plant area (Japanese garden). There you’ll find many nearly life-size dinosaur models (please don’t touch them), which will delight visitors of all ages.

Spaces dedicated to plants

There are many areas in the park dedicated to plants: the Japanese garden, the desert garden, the bamboo labyrinth, the tropical greenhouse, etc. Nature lovers will be in for a treat!

The Kids' Area

The park has two children's areas: an indoor area and an outdoor area. Each of these areas is sure to delight children—whether with the indoor games or the outdoor trampoline.

FAQ - Planet Exotica

1. What is Planet Exotica?

Planet Exotica is a 7.6-hectare zoological and botanical park in Royan, Charente-Maritime. The park immerses visitors in an exotic world with a wide variety of reptiles, theme gardens, tropical greenhouses and life-size reproductions of dinosaurs.

2. Where is Planet Exotica and how do I get there?

The park is located at 5 Avenue des Fleurs de la Paix, 17200 Royan, France. It is less than 1 km from the beach and 500 m from the Royan SNCF train station. A free parking lot with 350 spaces is available at the park entrance, with two other parking lots nearby.

3. What are the park's hours of operation?

Planet Exotica is open every day of the year. Hours are from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. during the off-season and from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. during the summer season.

4. What are the admission fees?

Prices vary depending on age and any available discounts. We recommend visiting the «Schedules/Prices» page on the official website for the most up-to-date information.

5. Is the park accessible to people with reduced mobility and strollers?

Yes, all the trails in the park are accessible to strollers and people with limited mobility.

6. Are pets allowed in the park?

Dogs are allowed in the park, provided they are kept on a leash, with the exception of the tropical and desert greenhouses. Owners are responsible for their pets and must ensure they do not disturb other visitors or the park’s animals.

7. Are there any on-site catering options?

Yes, the park has several dining options, including the «Jungle Bar & Restaurant» and the «Sunset.» In addition, there is a picnic area for visitors who wish to bring their own food.

8. What are the park's main attractions?

Planet Exotica's star attractions include :

• The Reptilarium A new facility in the heart of the city: home to a vast collection of reptiles such as snakes, crocodiles, alligators and lizards.
• Tropical and desert greenhouses The new plant: featuring a diverse range of exotic flora.
• The Japanese Garden With a bonsai collection and koi pond.
• Dinosaur Park Dinosaurs: exhibiting life-size reproductions of dinosaurs.
• The Indian Village A unique event: offering equestrian shows and cultural activities.
• The Mini-Farm A fun way for children to discover domestic animals.

9. Can I buy tickets online?

Yes, you can purchase tickets online through the park's official ticketing site, which will save you time when you arrive.

10. Are there any special offers for groups or special events?

Planet Exotica offers special deals for groups, guided tours, and hosts various events throughout the year. We recommend checking the «Group Offers» section of the official website for more details.

If you have any other questions or would like additional information, please feel free to contact the park directly through its official website or by phone at 05 46 38 00 99.

What to do near Planet Exotica?

Things to do in Royan

The Grande Conche beach in Royan

The beach of Royan - plage de la Grande conche - is located in Royan côte de beauté, in Charente Maritime.This is one of the city's best beaches for families.

It's the ideal place for sunbathing, alone or with the family. It's easily accessible from the town of Royan, either on foot or by car, with plenty of parking nearby.

You can also enjoy a range of beach activities: sand yachting, etc...

Royan market

The central market of Royan is a well-known place located in Royan - côte de beauté - in Charente Maritime and known for its architecture, its history, and its fresh products. You'll find it at 72 rue Pierre Loti, in the town center, not far from the seafront.

This market is open all year round, and you'll appreciate the 50s architecture. You can even get lost after a few minutes wandering around this lively place, in the aisles where the merchants are located.

Casino de Royan a Pontaillac

The Casino de Royan is located in the town of Royan in the Pontaillac district, literally on the beach. The casino was designed by architect Bluysen and opened in 1931. It is built in concrete. It replaces the former Pontaillac casino, known as La Restauration, which had been built in 1901 after a municipal competition.

It was the only one of the 5 casinos built in Royan to survive the Second World War. Initially called 'Le Sporting', the casino was bought by Lucien Barrière in 1986.

Rediscovering Royan

The town of Royan is famous for its long sandy beach, lined with typical, unspoilt houses. It is ideally situated between St Palais sur Mer and St Georges de Didonne.

It is the gateway to the Gironde estuary, and the largest town on the Côte de Beauté. It's a family-friendly seaside resort with plenty to do.

Take advantage of its long beach, the Grande Conche beach, its activities and its daily market, renowned all year round....

But don't forget to stop and discover its architecture. Although Royan was partly destroyed during the bombing raids of the Second World War, there are still some architecturally interesting houses.

RoyanThe town of St. Tropez, in the south-west of France, is a pretty little town on the Atlantic coast. It lies at the entrance to the Gironde estuary, and is surrounded by seaside resorts.