Peacock Park, Addis Ababa

Addis Zoo Peacock Park is a large park and zoo area created from the former Lion Zoo Park, which was first established in 1948. The original site was small and crowded, so a new park was developed in the early 2020s on a much larger area of about 26 hectares. The goal was to give animals more space and create a park where people could spend more time walking and relaxing.

The park is best known for its Ethiopian black-maned lions, a rare group linked to animals kept during the imperial period. They now live in larger enclosures that allow better movement and care. Other animals include gelada baboons, hyenas, tortoises, and a few domestic animals such as rabbits and ducks. The focus is on space and animal welfare rather than on having many species, and despite the name, peacocks are not always present.

Beyond the animal areas, the park works as a public green space. Lawns, benches, and shaded areas are used for resting, walking, and photos. The park is popular for family visits and wedding photography. Small cafés are usually available, and most visits last one to two hours. Quieter paths exist, so many visitors stay on busier routes.