Harvard Club of Switzerland

Dear Alumnae and Alumni,

We are pleased to invite you to an exclusive behind-the-scenes visit to Basel Zoo ("Zolli"), one of Switzerland's most beloved institutions and a leading modern zoological garden.

Founded more than 150 years ago, Basel Zoo is the oldest zoo in Switzerland. Over the decades, it has evolved from a nineteenth-century menagerie into a modern center dedicated to conservation, education, research, and recreation. Today, the Zolli is home to approximately 16,000 animals representing around 615 species and welcomes nearly 1.2 million visitors each year in the heart of Basel.

We are particularly fortunate to be guided by Adrian Baumeyer, Curator at Basel Zoo. Adrian is responsible for all aspects of the zoo's animal collection and animal keeping operations. His responsibilities range from deciding which species the zoo maintains and how exhibits are designed, to overseeing international animal exchanges, coordinating breeding programs, and managing the daily work of the animal care teams. In addition, he plays a leading role in public outreach, facilitating scientific research, and coordinating international conservation efforts.

Adrian studied Biology at the University of Fribourg and obtained his MSc in Biology in Basel. Since joining Basel Zoo in 2012, he has focused particularly on primates and has become a recognized leader within the European zoo community, serving as Chair of the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA) Larger New World Monkey Taxon Advisory Group.

During our tour, Adrian will provide a unique perspective on how a modern zoo operates, explain the challenges and opportunities of contemporary wildlife conservation, and introduce us to some of the fascinating species living at Basel Zoo. We can expect insights well beyond the experience of a regular zoo visit.

Event Details

Date: Thursday, November 5, 2026

Time: 4:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Please arrive about 15 minutes early to purchase your individual entry ticket; the tour will start promptly at 4:30 p.m. While the zoo remains open later, many animals become inactive in the evening, making an earlier start essential.

After the tour, you can either stay at the zoo to explore further or join us for dinner at the Markthalle, close by.

Meeting Point: Main Entrance, Basel Zoo

Guide: Adrian Baumeyer, Curator, Basel Zoo

Language: English

Registration: Please register here

Participation is limited to 25 people and will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. For the time being, registration will be limited to Harvard Club of Switzerland members only. 

Cost: The guided tour itself is offered free of charge.

Participants are responsible for purchasing their own zoo admission ticket before the tour begins.

Current admission prices are:

· Adults (20+): CHF 22

· Seniors: CHF 20

· Youths (16-19): CHF 16

· Children (6-15): CHF 10

Please purchase your ticket at the zoo entrance before the start of the tour.

We expect strong interest in this unique event and encourage you to register early to secure your place.

We look forward to exploring the Zolli from an insider's perspective and sharing an enjoyable autumn evening with fellow alumnae & alumni.

For the Harvard Club of Switzerland,
Jeff Lamont & Christof Burri