World’s Leading Zoos and Aquariums

The World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) is the global alliance of regional associations, national federations, zoos and aquariums, dedicated to the care and conservation of animals and their habitats around the world.

400 members
around the world

WAZA promotes cooperation between leading zoos, aquariums, national and regional associations, as well as with leading wildlife experts, academies, and universities. WAZA provides support for species-conservation management and husbandry of animals in human care, while encouraging the highest standards in member institutions.

Become a member

WAZA accepts membership applications in four categories: associations, institutions, affiliates and corporations. WAZA members must be committed to the principles of the global zoo and aquarium community.

The unifying organisation for the world's leading zoos and aquariums

WAZA’s vision is to be a globally recognised and trusted leader advancing conservation and animal welfare.

81st WAZA Annual Conference

Celebrating Excellence and Collective Progress at the 81st WAZA Annual Conference View a selection of photos from the conference here Posted: 5 November 2026 319 participants from 42 countries and regions gathered in Cologne, Germany for the 81st WAZA Annual

82nd WAZA Annual Conference

Date: 17 – 21 October 2027

The WAZA Annual Conference Heads to South Africa in 2027

The WAZA Annual Conference Heads to South Africa in 2027 Posted: 3 September 2026 A historic national bid will bring the global zoo and aquarium community to Cape Town from 17 to 21 October 2027. The World Association of Zoos

Insights from Ecuador’s Amazon on Sustainable Palm Oil

Insights from Ecuador’s Amazon on Sustainable Palm Oil Nicole Chaney, Conservation Programs Manager at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo in Colorado, US Palm oil is found in many of the packaged products lining store shelves, from food and cosmetics to cleaning supplies,

Zoos and aquariums are the third largest funder of conservation globally

WAZA and its members are committed to inspire and engage the more than 700 million people who visit zoos and aquariums every year – literally one-tenth of the world’s population – to take action for the conservation of species and nature.

Dedicated to change

WAZA and its members are committed to important goals regarding the environment and sustainability, and are engaged in issues of conservation and battling the illegal trade in wildlife like never before. Read the WAZA News Magazine and other publications to find out more.