Zoo-Run Hannover

Sport for Conservation

The Erlebnis-Zoo Hannover launched the Zoo-Run in 2016 with a clear mission: to raise funds for a specific conservation project through sport and simultaneously raise awareness for the protection of endangered species. 2026 marks the eleventh edition – a success story that has generated increasing numbers of participants and considerable sums of donations in recent years.

Beneficiary 2026: White-cheeked Gibbon Project Vietnam

The donation income in 2026 will support a conservation project for the White-cheeked Gibbon (Nomascus leucogenys) in Vietnam. This highly endangered primate species lives in the tropical forests of Northern Vietnam and Laos. Its population has dramatically declined due to habitat destruction and poaching – the IUCN lists the species as critically endangered. The project supported by Zoo Hannover focuses on habitat protection, anti-poaching measures, research, and education of the local population.

2.7 km Course Through the Zoo

The running route leads right through the Erlebnis-Zoo and follows the paved visitor paths. It passes by the main attractions: Yukon Bay with the polar bears, Sambesi with the elephants and antelopes, Mullewapp as the children's area, Outback with the kangaroos, Dschungel with the orangutans, and Meyer-Hof as a historically recreated farm. The animals are in their enclosures during the special running event – many curiously approach the glass fronts or enclosure edges.

One to Four Laps – Everyone As They Wish

Participants choose before the start how many laps they want to complete: 1 lap (2.7 km), 2 laps (5.4 km), 3 laps (8.1 km), or 4 laps (10.8 km). The choice of distance allows beginners, families, and ambitious runners to participate equally. Those who drop out can finish at any time – the sporting competition is not the focus, but rather the experience and the good cause.

Limited Places

The number of participants is limited to a maximum of 1,500 adult runners and 550 children – a deliberate decision to avoid overloading the paths in the zoo and to ensure a pleasant running experience. Registration is done online via zoo-hannover.de. In previous years, places were regularly snapped up quickly.

Entry Fees as Donations

A large portion of the entry fees goes directly to the conservation project. The Erlebnis-Zoo Hannover provides the zoo grounds, infrastructure, and organization – the proceeds are largely passed on for the good cause. Those who wish to donate more can contribute an additional donation via the zoo's donation portal.