Rimbula River

Wildlands Adventure Zoo is the large zoo of Emmen, in the south-east of Drenthe, and Rimbula is the name of one of its themed zones. The park was rebuilt in the first decade of this century from the earlier Noorder Dierenpark, and it now presents its animals in areas that evoke different parts of the world, with the sights, sounds and plants of each region. A river ride through a rainforest-style zone is a good example of this approach, and it is intended to give visitors a sense of travelling through a tropical landscape rather than simply walking past enclosures. The prehistoric hunebedden of the countryside around Emmen are a separate attraction and have nothing to do with the zoo.

The idea of a boat journey is simple. Visitors board a small boat that drifts along a slow-moving channel, passing through scenery of tropical vegetation, with the water, the plants and the air all adding to the effect. As the boat moves, animals appear along the banks or in the trees, and the commentary and signs explain what they are. Because the boat moves slowly and quietly, animals are less disturbed and visitors can look at leisure. The warm and humid atmosphere of an indoor jungle can come as a pleasant surprise on a cold day, and in the cooler months it makes the experience especially welcome.

The ride works for nearly everyone. Small children can ride with their parents, and older visitors get a rest from walking, which is useful in a large park with long paths. Queues can build up at busy times, so it helps to go early in the day or to check how long the wait is before joining. Details of the ride, such as its length and the animals on show, change with the park's development, so it is best to check current information.

The zoo as a whole has plenty to offer. Zones representing Africa, Asia and South America contain big cats, elephants, apes, birds and many other species, and there are shows, feeding sessions and play areas. The restaurants and shops are well placed, and a day can be spent without leaving the grounds. The park is one of the largest attractions in the north of the Netherlands.

The river suits families, animal lovers and anyone who likes a gentle ride. Emmen has more to see, including Rensenpark and the centre, and the hunebedden of the surrounding area. Check opening times and ticket prices on the zoo's website, and buy tickets online for the best price.