Animal Zones

Overview

Deep within the heart of Astana, Kazakhstan, lies an unexpected marvel: the Animal Zones of Ailand. This vibrant sub-spot, nestled within the larger Ailand Entertainment Center, offers a captivating journey into diverse ecosystems, far removed from the arid steppe landscape that surrounds it. The primary attractions that constitute these Animal Zones are the celebrated Oceanarium, renowned for its unique global distinction, and the intriguing Exotarium, showcasing a collection of rare and exotic land creatures. Together, they create an immersive experience that transports visitors from the Central Asian plains to the depths of the ocean and the lushness of distant jungles, making Ailand a cornerstone of family entertainment and discovery in the capital city.

History & Cultural Background

The story of Ailand's Animal Zones begins in 2003, when the complex first opened its doors under the name 'Duman'. It was then that Kazakhstan, and indeed the entire Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), witnessed the grand opening of its first oceanarium. This was no small feat; constructing a thriving marine ecosystem thousands of kilometers from any ocean was an engineering marvel and a bold vision for the young capital. The oceanarium immediately garnered international recognition, earning a place in the Guinness Book of Records as the most remote oceanarium from a sea or ocean in the world, situated over 3000 kilometers away. In 2017, the complex underwent a significant reconstruction and rebranding, emerging as Ailand, a modern entertainment hub that continued to uphold the legacy of its groundbreaking aquatic display while expanding its offerings to include other captivating animal exhibits. This transformation solidified its role not just as an entertainment venue, but as a cultural landmark, a 'miracle in the steppe expanses' that brought the wonders of the marine world to a landlocked nation.

What Makes It Special

The centerpiece of Ailand's Animal Zones is undoubtedly its magnificent Oceanarium. This aquatic wonderland holds a staggering three million liters of water, meticulously prepared with 120 tons of sea salt annually sourced from the Red and Dead Seas to recreate an authentic marine environment. Within these vast tanks, over two thousand individuals representing hundreds of species of marine life thrive. Visitors can encounter majestic sharks, graceful rays, elusive cat sharks, delicate starfish, and enigmatic seahorses, alongside freshwater inhabitants like piranhas, crabs, and pacus. The highlight for many is the 70-meter long acrylic tunnel, offering an unparalleled 'underwater' stroll where marine creatures swim overhead and around, creating a truly immersive sensation of being on the seabed. Beyond the ocean's depths, the Exotarium adds another layer of fascination, housing what is considered Astana's largest collection of exotic land animals. Here, curious travelers can observe rare species such as the albino royal python, the red-handed tamarin (known as one of the world's smallest monkeys), and even Madagascar cockroaches. The combination of these diverse habitats, painstakingly maintained by a team of aquarists, ichthyologists, and divers, makes Ailand's Animal Zones a truly special destination.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

The Guinness World Record held by the Oceanarium as the world's most remote has cemented its place in local lore and pride. It's a testament to human ingenuity to bring a piece of the distant ocean to the landlocked heart of Eurasia. This unique achievement often sparks conversations about the immense logistical efforts involved in maintaining such a sophisticated marine environment. There's a charming tale among visitors that suggests a 'spirit of the ancient sea' resides within the Oceanarium's deep tunnels, rumored to grant wishes to those lucky enough to spot a rare ray during feeding time. Additionally, within the 'Dinosaurs Among Us' exhibit, part of Ailand's broader offerings, children believe that leaving a coin at the paw of the largest dinosaur statue will make it a protector and bring good luck in their studies. These delightful stories add a layer of magic and cultural connection, making a visit more than just an observation of animals, but an engagement with the vibrant local imagination.

Visitor Perspective

For the curious traveler, a visit to Ailand's Animal Zones offers an enriching and educational experience. Walking through the 70-meter tunnel, with sharks and turtles gliding just inches away, provides an unforgettable perspective on marine life, almost as if one were scuba diving without getting wet. The carefully curated environments, coupled with the dedication of the professional staff, ensure the well-being of the inhabitants and provide clear opportunities for observation and learning. While the allure of interacting directly with the animals is strong, it's important for visitors to adhere to the center's rules, which prohibit feeding fish with outside food and using additional lighting for photography, ensuring the animals' health and natural behavior are preserved. The Exotarium further broadens this perspective, allowing guests to marvel at terrestrial species that are rarely seen in this region. Overall, the Animal Zones of Ailand provide a comprehensive and engaging look at biodiversity, leaving visitors with a deeper appreciation for both aquatic and terrestrial wonders.