Visiting Planète Crocodiles (now Terre de Dragons) in Civaux, Vienne

The Terre de Dragons (was La Planète des Crocodiles) in Civaux is a menagerie of reptiles, set in an amazing dome building in the Vienne department of Nouvelle-Aquitaine. It turned out to be a delightful afternoon activity, that certainly exceeded my expectations. While Terre de Dragons is definitely aimed at kids, although there is plenty to keep the adults interested too.

Where is Terre de Dragons located?

Terre de Dragons is in Civaux, in the northern part of the Vienne department. About 30 minutes drive from Poitiers, 1.5hours north-west of Limoges, and about 2 hours inland from La Rochelle.

What was once Planète Crocodiles, it sits next to Abyssea, the swimming and entertainment complex in Civaux (Route du Fond d Orveau, 86320). Terre de Dragons is easy to find because of the large dome-roofed building housing the reptile house. There is a large carpark, servicing both the crocodile park and Abyssea swim centre.

Visiting Planète Crocodiles in Civaux

Ticket prices start at €13 for children and €18 for adults, and there are family discount tickets available also.

The Reptiles at Terre de Dragons

Alongside the obvious abundance of crocodiles, there are alligators, caimans, turtles, tortoises, snakes, iguanas, and lizards. All set amongst beautiful walkways and plantings.

I particularly enjoyed the ‘Louisiana Swamp’ area, where the scene was reminiscent of our time in the American South and Florida Everglades.

There are many enclosures of turtles, tortoises and other animals where you can get a bit closer to them (without danger of course). We loved the snapping turtles, as they seemed as intent on watching us as we were of watching them.

Feeding Times

There are regular feeding times for the various creatures at Terre de Dragons. You will receive a guide when you arrive, telling you when these will be (usually on the hour). I managed to capture some footage of feeding time in the video below.

Adventure at Terre de Dragons

For those who are agile, adventurous, and not afraid of heights, there are amazing net pathways high above the enclosures. You can choose to view the centre via these pathways, while getting a workout as well as a great view. Or you can choose to keep your feet planted firmly on the ground and follow the winding pathways around the enclosures.

Le Sheppard at Terre de Dragons

There is a spacious restaurant with great views of the animals! It has a minimalist menu, with the classic favourites, as well as good options for the kids. And having a view of the animals while you eat is very fun.

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