Saint-Cybranet

Réserve zoologique de Calviac: nature immersion in the Dordogne

Written by Alizé
June 13. 2025
Réserve zoologique de Calviac: nature immersion in the Dordogne

Slow Village opens the doors to a land where nature takes center stage. The Périgord Noir, a land of history and landscapes, is home to a unique place where respect for the world of animals reigns supreme: the Calviac zoological reserve. This haven of peace, in the heart of a forest setting, invites you to a privileged and educational encounter with endangered species. An ideal getaway for families and biodiversity lovers, to be experienced to the full from our open-air hotel in Saint-Cybranet.

A park committed to biodiversity

The Calviac zoological reserve is a conservatory for endangered species and a key player in European wildlife protection. Its philosophy: animal welfare, landscape integration and education. Every visit supports conservation.

200 endangered animals in a forest setting

In the heart of the Périgord forest, the Calviac zoological reserve is home to over 200 endangered species (lemurs, red pandas, tamarins, wolverines). Originating from Europe, Madagascar, South America and Oceania, they benefit from the European Breeding Programs (EEP) in which Calviac Zoo participates to ensure the survival of their bloodlines.

A walking tour of 12 hectares

The 12-hectare site can be explored on foot. A 1.5 km path winds through the forest, leading to large, well-integrated enclosures. Some semi-liberty primates offer privileged observation. Allow 2-3 hours for this immersive visit to the Calviac zoological park in the Dordogne.

Ecological, participatory and educational commitment

Managed by the non-profit Conservatoire des Espèces Menacées (CEM), the Calviac zoological reserve reinvests its profits in conservation projects (e.g. European mink). Ourecological commitment is reflected in the careful management of resources and the use of local materials.Preservation education is central, with panels, animations and commented feedings to raise awareness.

Practical information for organizing your visit

To make your trip to this refuge for endangered animals a success, here's the essential information you need to know before visiting the Calviac zoological reserve.

Opening times

  • Opening hours: variable according to season
  • Info: updated timetable available on the official website

Services and Accessibility

  • Shaded picnic areas
  • Souvenir store (ethical products), toilets
  • Forest course: accessible but with slopes
  • Pets not allowed

Parking and visiting time

  • Free parking for cars and motorhomes

  • Bike station at reception

  • Recommended duration: 2 to 3 hours to enjoy the course at your leisure

Access and Address

  • Address: Sous le Roc, 24370 Calviac-en-Périgord

  • 10 km from Sarlat - access via D704/D704A

  • Access from A20 (exit 55), Gourdon, Carsac

  • Transport: Carsac-Aillac stop (1 km), Sarlat-Souillac cycle path

Prices and ticketing

  • Adults: from €15.50 (online dated) / €16.50 (free)

  • Children (3-12 years): from €10.50 / €11.50

  • Free for children under 3

  • Online purchasing recommended to avoid waiting

 

Book accommodation near Calviac zoological reserve

Just a 30-minute drive from Calviac zoo, discover the Slow Village Saint Cybranet in the Périgord Noir. This new-generation open-air hotel offers you a truly immersive experience in an unspoilt setting on the banks of the Céou River. Here, the emphasis is on authenticity, comfort and respect for the place, with mainly wooden accommodation that blends harmoniously into the landscape. It's the perfect place for families and lovers of the great outdoors to visit.

Saint-Cybranet
Cottage Premium 1bed.

Ideal for recharging your batteries, this cottage for two invites you to enjoy a moment of relaxation in a soothing setting.

18 m²
1 bdrm
2 pers.
1 bathroom.
Discover
Saint-Cybranet
Cottage Signature 2bed.

Enjoy a fully-equipped, top-of-the-range 2-bedroom wooden cottage. The ideal accommodation for your family vacation in a green setting!

34 m²
2 bdrms
4 pers.
2 bathrooms.
Discover
Saint-Cybranet
Tente Lodge Insolite 2ch.

The art of camping in harmony with nature, with all the comforts you need! Discover this unusual accommodation in the heart of Périgord Noir.

20.25 m²
2 bdrms
5 pers.
Shared sanitary facilities
Discover
Saint-Cybranet
Tiny House 2bed.

A stay in a Tiny House; a stay between minimalism and comfort. Discover this unusual accommodation in the heart of Périgord Noir.

22 m²
2 bdrms
4 pers.
1 bathroom.
Discover
Saint-Cybranet
Tiny House Slow Box 2ch.

A stay in a Tiny House; a stay between minimalism and comfort. Discover this unusual accommodation in the heart of Périgord Noir.

26 m²
2 bdrms
4 pers.
1 bathroom.
Discover
 

The perfect nature outing for the whole family

Discovering the Calviac zoological reserve guarantees a memorable and instructive day out for the whole family. The natural setting, the respect shown for the creatures and the activities on offer make it an ideal destination for young and old alike.

Animals in semi-liberty, wooded trails

One of the highlights of your visit to the Calviac reserve is the privileged contact with some of its residents. The lemur island, for example, where these mischievous primates approach you with curiosity, is particularly popular with the very young. The shady, well-maintained wooded paths make for a pleasant walk, even on hot Dordogne summer days. Every turn reveals a new wildlife sighting in a woodland setting carefully restored for the animals' well-being.

Educational activities and children's entertainment

Education is a key component of the Calviac zoological reserve experience. Lively events are organized on a regular basis, especially during the school vacations: feeding sessions with commentary by passionate caretakers who share their knowledge, privileged encounters to learn more about the residents and their way of life, or fun and instructive children's workshops. These exchanges explain the challenges of modern conservation and the role of each individual in an accessible way.

Respect, curiosity and wonder are the order of the day

An excursion to the Calviac reserve is a wonderful opportunity to instill in youngsters fundamental values such as respect for living things and curiosity about the world around them. Marvelling at the diversity of species, the beauty of their plumage and coats, and the complexity of their behaviour, is an inexhaustible source of learning. The park encourages discreet, attentive observation, inviting visitors to slow down, listen to the sounds of the forest and reconnect with what's essential. Reviews of the Calviac reserve frequently emphasize this peaceful atmosphere and the zoo's sincere commitment to conservation.

Discover the Calviac zoological reserve

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