Potsdam's newest park, opened in 2001, is the Volkspark, and one of its most interesting attractions is the Biosphere Tropical Garden. This is a corner of jungle in the middle of Europe where any child can feel like Indiana Jones.
The Biosphere is a giant greenhouse with conditions as close as possible to the natural tropics — humidity, heat, soil and light. A special microclimate is created: lush bushes, imitation active geysers, waterfalls, mangrove swamps and even tropical downpours that occur according to a special schedule.
In this little paradise, visitors can see around 20,000 tropical plants and 350 species of animals. "The Biosphere is home to a variety of reptiles, insects, animals and even fish that live in warm waters. Animals that are not dangerous to humans (parrots, butterflies) are everywhere, but poisonous garden dwellers can be seen in special terrariums or aviaries.
Guests can see representatives of the deep sea in a submarine with aquariums inside. The Biosphere also has a 60 square metre butterfly house. There are more than twenty species of butterflies brought in from Latin America and Asia. In the Butterfly House you can follow the entire life cycle of these amazing insects, from the caterpillar to the beautiful fluttering 'flower'.
One of the main differences between the Biosphere and other similar gardens is that it tries to be as interactive as possible. Younger visitors to the Biosphere will enjoy the fact that many animals can be touched, flowers and butterflies can be viewed through a magnifying glass and the most curious visitors are even invited to make their own geyser. There are instructional signs next to the exhibits that are suitable for viewing and experimenting with.
Perhaps the most exciting activity for children in the garden is the jungle treasure hunt adventure. The Biosphere offers themed birthday parties for young nature lovers. By the way, there is also an option for adults to spend interesting "romantic nights" in the tropics.
The best time to visit the Biosphere is midday on a Saturday or Sunday. This is when the garden begins feeding its inhabitants. Guests can not only watch the experienced staff at work, but also feed some of the animals under supervision. On some days, the garden also offers themed tours, the schedule of which can be found on the website. One of these is 'Exotic Flora and Fauna'. During the walk, the guide gives interesting information about tropical plants and animals.
Another tour is called 'A Journey into the World of Tropical Spices and Cultures'. Here guests are told about the fruits and spices we get from warm countries. Tourists are given some spices and a recipe for home-made chocolate. In the garden, guests are also invited to take a tour of 'Butterflies of the Tropics' and 'Medicinal Plants of the Tropics'. Each tour lasts approximately one and a half hours and must be paid for separately.
A walk through the park can be combined with a visit to the Babelsberg Film Park, which is just 250 metres from the Biosphere.
