Minister Jack Chambers Officially Announces Reopening of Dublin Zoo’s Historic Rainforest House

The Rainforest House represents a major milestone in the Zoo’s ongoing commitment to conservation, education, and animal welfare. This state-of-the-art habitat recreates the complex ecosystems of tropical regions, featuring lush vegetation, controlled climate systems, and carefully designed environments that support the natural behaviours of its resident species.

Pictured is Minister of State at the Department for for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation Kevin Boxer Moran, Dr Christoph Schwitzer, Director of Dublin Zoo and Jack Chambers, Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation at the official re-opening of the historic Rainforest House at Dublin Zoo. © Patrick Bolger Photography

Formerly known as the South American House, this historic building, located near the Great Lawn, is among the oldest structures in the Zoo, dating back to the 1860s. The redevelopment, which took place over two years, carefully respects the building’s heritage while introducing state-of-the-art environmental systems that replicate the temperature, humidity, and ecology of rainforest environments.

Upon its opening in the coming week, visitors can expect to encounter a diverse range of species in the habitat. Additional animals are set to arrive in the coming months as part of Dublin Zoo’s ongoing development of the habitat.

The project was a collaborative effort across multiple teams within Dublin Zoo, with animal care specialists leading on habitat design alongside external designers, and the conservation education team shaping the interpretation and storytelling throughout the space. Over the past two years, dedicated work has gone into developing engaging content and visuals that bring the rainforest environment to life for visitors.

As the world’s fourth oldest zoo and a leading conservation charity, Dublin Zoo is on a journey towards its bicentennial in 2031, continuing to evolve its role as a modern, zoo-based conservation organisation while delivering on its mission to save wildlife and inspire a passion for nature – one person, one family at a time.

Designed not only as a home for animals but also as a vibrant educational space, the Rainforest House will support Dublin Zoo’s learning programmes, welcoming over 65,000 learners each year. The experience highlights the importance of rainforest ecosystems and encourages visitors to take action to protect them.

Minister Jack Chambers spoke at the opening of the Rainforest House: “The reopening of the Rainforest House is a significant milestone for Dublin Zoo and a wonderful example of how we can preserve our heritage while embracing innovation. The team at Dublin Zoo have brought to life a space that not only enhances the wellbeing of the animals in their care but also connects visitors more deeply with the importance of conservation and biodiversity.” 

Pictured is Jack Chambers, Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation speaking at the official re-opening of the historic Rainforest House at Dublin Zoo. © Patrick Bolger Photography

Minister Kevin Boxer Moran said: “It is a pleasure to see this historic building at Dublin Zoo reopening to visitors as the Rainforest House, the Zoo’s most immersive habitat to date. This project reflects the Government of Ireland’s investment, delivered through the Office of Public Works, in preserving our built heritage while supporting its sustainable reuse for public enjoyment and education. It is wonderful to see our neighbours in the Phoenix Park flourish with the addition of such a vibrant and engaging space, and we look forward to the Rainforest House becoming a valued part of the visitor experience for years to come.”

Dr Christoph Schwitzer, Director of Dublin Zoo shared: “We are proud to announce the opening of the Rainforest House, an immersive experience that brings visitors into the heart of one of the world’s most vital ecosystems. As a conservation charity, our mission is to inspire the next generation of conservationists, and through this habitat we highlight the importance of protecting rainforests and safeguarding the species that depend on them. By connecting visitors with some of the most wonderful animal species from the rainforests of South America, we aim to foster understanding, support conservation efforts, and help secure safe, thriving spaces for wildlife into the future.”

Pictured are Minister Kevin Boxer Moran, Minister Jack Chambers, Carmel O’Connor and Dr Christoph Schwitzer at the official re-opening of the historic Rainforest House at Dublin Zoo. © Patrick Bolger Photography

The opening of the Rainforest House also highlights Dublin Zoo’s dedication to global conservation efforts. Many of the species housed within the habitat are part of international breeding programmes and conservation initiatives aimed at safeguarding vulnerable wildlife populations.

The Rainforest House will open to visitors at Dublin Zoo in the coming week. Visitors of all ages are invited to discover this exciting new addition. For official opening times and booking information, stay tuned to Dublin Zoo’s social media channels or visit dublinzoo.ie.