Anthony Guillod, CEO

“Reptiles are a passion and a family matter. I grew up surrounded by these terrariums, my father took me on trips early on to show me reptiles in their natural environment. Today, as a professionally qualified animal keeper, I keep the exhibitions up, aiming to raise awareness about the animals and the importance of protecting them.”

Michel Guillod, founder

More than 50 years of experience with these fascinating animals.

“I was 14 years old when I build my first terrarium for a viper. My collection then kept growing until it became my profession. In collaboration with Jean Garzoni the first exhibitions took place in the French part of Switzerland in 1970.

The exhibition has been going for over 30 years. This is especially thanks to my friends, which were an essential part of all this.

Since 2015 it’s the turn of the younger generation to carry on this living museum.”

Julien Regamey, photographer

“Even before I could walk my attention was captured by wild animals, insects, birds, reptiles and mammals, and observing the quickly became a passion.

So, quite naturally, at the end of mandatory education I opted for an apprenticeship as animal caretaker. I was lucky enough to follow a 3-year training under the direction of Jean Garzoni at the Vivarium Lausanne.”

Jean Garzoni

When speaking of our team, how can we not pay tribute to one of the greatest Swiss herpetologists.

When he passed away in 2017, he left an incredible story behind. He knew how to captivate listeners around the globe with his stories about his discoveries of mother nature and passionate them by founding the Lausanne Vivarium in 1970.

His calling was to demystify these feared and misunderstood creatures, a mission that continues to inspire this exhibition.

Many thanks to him.