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.

33rd ALPZA Congress

Date: 12-15 April 2027

2026 IZE Conference

Date: 12-16 October 2026

World Species Congress 2027

Date: 19 May 2027

Stewards of Tomorrow: Building the Leaders, Organisations and Partnerships Conservation Needs

Stewards of Tomorrow: Building the Leaders, Organisations and Partnerships Conservation Needs Conservation is often measured in decades. Species recovery programmes span generations. Habitat restoration can take years before results become visible. Behaviour change, policy development and education initiatives rarely happen overnight. Yet

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.