Top 10 Zoos In Spain: Discover Wildlife Wonders Across The Country

A photo of a vibrant and adventurous Spanish zoo perfect for family days out and animal enthusiasts.

Spain is not only renowned for its art, architecture, and beaches but also some of Europe’s most thrilling and informative zoos. These zoos in Spain offer unforgettable Every attraction welcomes people to see exotic animals, discover endangered creatures, and experience interactive exhibits within meticulously kept environments. Whatever you do, from taking a stroll through a woodland habitat, observing a dolphin performance, or feeding giraffes directly, the renowned Spanish zoo guarantees entertainment. You can have learning and adventure all under one roof.

Top 10 Zoos In Spain

These are amongst the most fascinating zoos in Spain that showcase rich biodiversity and provide a living experience with nature:

1. Loro Parque, Canary Islands, Tenerife

An image of the colorful parrot showcases remarkable habitats at this renowned zoo in Spain.

Photo: AnatolyPm / Wikimedia Commons

In Puerto de la Cruz on Tenerife Island in the Canary Islands, Loro Parque is regularly regarded as one of the world’s best zoos. It started out as a parrot park and has progressed to become one of the most important zoos in Spain with over 400 species of animals. The zoo is well known for having orca and dolphin exhibits, huge aquariums, and the world’s biggest indoor penguin enclosure. The zoo is also a conservation pioneer with the Loro Parque Foundation.

Location:: Tenerife
Best Time To Visit: October to April (temperate climate)

2. Bioparc Valencia, Valencia

An image of an African savannah's natural habitat within the Bioparc Zoo in Spain.

Photo: Alberto-g-rovi / Wikimedia Commons

This participatory zoo is one of the most groundbreaking and prominent zoos in Spain. Bioparc Valencia isn’t all about animals behind bars. It’s about simulating the actual environments of African animals in the midst of a city. Lions, rhinos, giraffes, and gorillas roam around spacious enclosures with natural boundaries rather than fences. The zoo operates on a “zoo-immersion” concept, such that the visitors experience as though they are entering the wild directly. Animal welfare and eco-friendly experiences take center stage here. It’s highly recommended for families who wish to experience adventure and learning in one outing.

Location:: Within Valencia city
Best Time To Visit: March to June

3. Zoo Aquarium De Madrid, Madrid

An image of the prestigious zoo in Spain, marine life, and an image of foreign animals.

Photo: Fernando Losada Rodríguez / Wikimedia Commons

Located inside the Casa Day Campo Park, the Zoo Aquarium de Madrid is one of the oldest and most famous zoos in Spain. It combines a traditional zoo, an aquarium, a dolphinarium, and even a petting zoo. You will find everything from pandas and coral to sharks and penguins, all in one place. Spread over 20 hectares, it offers educational activities and regular feeding shows, making it a great place to travel for both adults and children. If you are in Madrid, this zoo offers a full day of learning, walking, and wildlife conversations.

Location:: Inside the city of Madrid
Best Time To Visit: March to May and September to November

4. Barcelona Zoo, Barcelona

An image of mixed species animals within the Barcelona city zoo in Spain.

Photo: Enric / Wikimedia Commons

Sited in Parc de la Ciutadella, Barcelona Zoo is perhaps one of the most visited and oldest zoos in Spain. Formed in 1892, it had a former inhabitant, the well-known albino gorilla Snowflake. Today, it still remains a tourist and local favourite. The zoo prides itself on its open enclosures, ecologically educational programs, and huge primate and mammal collections. Families enjoy the picnic grounds and hands-on exhibits for children. It’s a serene retreat from city noise and offers a blend of fun, history and conservation.

Location:: Central Barcelona
Best Time To Visit: April to June

5. Terra Natura, Murcia

An image of outdoor animal enclosures and natural habitats at this open zoo.

Photo: Terra Natura Murcia / Wikimedia Commons

Terra Natura is a zoo of the new generation in Spain, based in Murcia. The zoo provides a “zoo without barriers” experience where glass and water moats take the place of cages. It’s segmented into various regions such as African Savannah, Iberian Peninsula, and RepTile Forest. Terra Natura also features a water park, making it an excellent combo destination, particularly during summer. The zoo places a big emphasis on conservation and education and is well-liked among school groups and family audiences seeking engaging experiences.

Location:: 4 km from the city of Murcia
Best Time To Visit: April to October

6. Selwo Aventura, Estepona, Andalusia

An image of safari jeeps and wild animals at this zoo in adventure-themed style.

Photo: Irwan Shah Bin Abdullah / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Want to experience being on an African safari, without departing Spain? Then visit Selwo Aventura, one of the most thrilling zoos in Spain. It features wildlife, adventure sports, and nature trails combined into one humongous experience. You can ride a safari-style truck along open plains where elephants, zebras, and lions freely graze. Zip lines, hanging bridges, and footpaths are available as well. It’s ideal for adventurous families and nature enthusiasts who wish for more than simply viewing animals.

Location:: Close to Marbella, Andalusia
Best Time To Visit: March to May

7. Oasis Wildlife, Fuerteventura, Canary Islands

An image of desert scenery and exotic animals at this desert-themed zoo.

Photo: Luis Miguel Bugallo Sánchez (Lmbuga) / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Located in volcanic scenery, Oasis Wildlife in Fuerteventura is a must-see zoo in Spain for wildlife enthusiasts and adventure seekers. This desert-themed park features camels, sea lions, elephants, and birds of prey. Visitors can view educational performances and even get close to some animals under supervision. What makes this zoo stand out is its camel reserve and emphasis on desert animals. And on top of that, it operates solid conservation programs throughout Africa and the Canary Islands.

Location:: In La Lajita, Fuerteventura
Best Time To Visit: November to March

8. Faunia, Madrid

An image of recreated natural ecosystems at this eco-concept zoo.

Photo: David Adam Kess / Wikimedia Commons

Faunia is not your typical zoo in Spain. It’s a blend of zoo, botanical garden, and theme park, spread over 14 different themed ecosystems, from the Arctic to the tropical jungle. You’ll walk from freezing penguin habitats to lush rainforests in just minutes. With more than 4,000 animals representing 700 species, Faunia is a favourite choice. It is for educational excursions, wildlife enthusiasts, and adventure seekers. It’s particularly suitable for children because of its interactive design and hands-on displays.

Location:: 15 minutes from Madrid city center
Best Time To Visit: October to May

9. Rio Safari Elche, Alicante

An image of palm trees and African animals at this tropical zoo with a quiet gorilla.

Photo: Alberto-g-rovi / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Located in a stunning palm forest, Rio Safari Elche is a Spanish tropical zoo with an African flair. It is home to giraffes, lions, orangutans, crocodiles, and others. The zoo features safari train rides, shows, and even a summer splash park. It is less busy compared to another well-known zoo in Spain, making it perfect for a more tranquil visit. The zoo is built on conservation and offers an excellent chance to learn more about animal welfare. Visitors can also feed certain animals under supervision, which provides a personal and educational element to the experience. With its combination of nature, adventure, and learning, Rio Safari Elche is an unforgettable destination.

Location:: Close to Alicante
Best Time To Visit: March to June

10. Cabárceno Nature Park, Cantabria

An image of wild animals freely roaming in a huge nature reserve - type zoo.

Photo: Alberto-g-rovi / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Less of a zoo and more of a natural park, Cabárceno is one of the largest and most significant zoos in Spain by size and natural environment. Situated in an old iron mine, it’s now a beautiful landscape with big enclosures where animals almost freely roam. Here, you get tigers, elephants, bears, and bison in half-wild situations. There’s even a cable car ride giving a bird’s eye view of the entire park. It’s ideal for people who wish to observe animals in their natural-similar environments.

Location:: 20 km from Santander
Best Time To Visit: May to October

There are more than Spain’s zoos where animals are seen in a lively hub of conservation and education. Each zoo in Spain has its combination of adventure, nature, and learning. From the natural plains of African safari to marine life performance and tropical jungle enclosures, these famous zoos in Spain have equal experiences for children and adults. With the correct mixture of entertainment and knowledge, these zoos show the miracles of the animal world in closeness. Plan your visit with TripXL today.

Cover Photo: H. Zell / Wikimedia Commons

Frequently Asked Questions

Definitely! All of the zoos in Spain are family-oriented. Most of them have petting zoos, kids' play zones, interactive displays, and educational workshops that keep the children occupied and amused throughout the trip.
Bioparc Valencia and Loro Parque in Tenerife are two of Spain's most renowned zoo for exotic animal experiences. They have animals from Africa, Asia, and the Americas living in immersive environments that are very similar to their natural habitats.
Yes, major zoos in Spain are open all year round. Nevertheless, spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) are the best times for outdoor adventure with nice weather and minimal crowds.
Indeed! Most of Spain's highest-ranking zoos not only play a role in support of conservation as well as endangered species breeding projects. Examples such as Madrid Zoo and Loro Parque have international fame thanks to the focus on animal protection, eco-efficiency practices, and wildlife rescue schemes.
Yes, indeed. You’ll find top zoos like Zoo Aquarium de Madrid in the capital city, Barcelona Zoo in the heart of Barcelona, and Valencia’s Bioparc just minutes from the city center, making them easily accessible for both locals and tourists.

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