Colombia has a rich history of building sustainability in the environment.
Many zoos and aquariums have been developed to preserve species that are rare and endangered.
These fantastic facilities boast large habitats that ensure the animals are kept comfortable, and the staff members provide exceptional care.
Through the rehabilitation efforts of these individuals, many animals have been released back into the wild.
We’ll take a deeper look into 14 of the best zoos and aquariums in Colombia.
Contents
- Best Zoos & Aquariums in Colombia
- 1. Zoológico de Cali
- 2. Oceanario
- 3. Zoológico de Barranquilla
- 4. Bioparque Ukumarí
- 5. Bioparque los Ocarros
- 6. Biopark Guatika
- 7. Parque Explora
- 8. Parque de la Conservación
- 9. Biopark La Reserva
- 10. Acuario Mundo Marino
- 11. Zoológico de Santa Cruz
- 12. Port Oasis
- 13. Jardin Exótico Kamala
- 14. Vivarium del Caribe
- 14 Best Zoos & Aquariums in Colombia – Summary Table
- Colombia Safety Overview
- Frequently Asked Questions
Best Zoos & Aquariums in Colombia
1. Zoológico de Cali
The Cali Zoo has a significant focus on the animals local to Colombia, which makes it unique among the other zoos in the country.
Additionally, it has a small collection of animals native to Asia and Africa.
A beautiful butterfly house is also in the zoo, where you can walk through and experience the wonder of these tiny creatures.
You can see many wonderful animals here, including the capybara, Andean condor, zebras, Bengal tigers, and many kinds of primates.
It’s a truly magnificent place to visit and spend a few hours.
2. Oceanario
Located in the Rosario Islands, Oceanario is an amazing aquarium.
While here, you’ll see many different marine species, including the cat and nurse sharks.
These sharks are well-trained to swim onto a platform to interact with their trainer, which is all completely visible to guests.
The main sight to see is the dolphins.
They put on a show with their trainer, jumping through hoops and performing other amazing acts.
In addition to the beautiful sea animals, you can experience the museum.
It features exhibits ranging from seaweed to sea mammals represented in dioramas and collections.
3. Zoológico de Barranquilla
The Barranquilla Zoo aims to protect exotic species from extinction through preservation tactics.
Through the promotion of reproduction, they are saving these endangered and rare species from extinction.
All the animals are well cared for by staff who show their care and devotion in every aspect of their jobs.
They are kept in clean, roomy habitats that provide ultimate comfort.
Of the zoo’s approximate 500 species of animals, 140 are from Africa, South America, and Asia.
You may even have the chance to see the staff washing the cougars for a memorable moment you won’t soon forget.
4. Bioparque Ukumarí
The Ukumarí Park was constructed to replace the Matecaña Zoo to provide better living conditions for the animals and host a better experience for guests.
While visiting, you will experience the different habitats the animals naturally live in, such as the African savannah and the Andean forests.
There are many opportunities to get up close to different animals, making the experience even more memorable.
The park is laid out on a wide expanse of land that is beautiful in and of itself before you take into account the amazing animals housed inside.
5. Bioparque los Ocarros
Much of the land the Bioparque los Ocarros comprises was once under the control of cartels and poachers.
It was wrested away to form this amazing park where animals are rehabilitated, and preservation efforts are made to save animals from extinction.
Many animals that call this park home are on the protected list banning them from being exploited in international trade.
Some of the animals you will have the pleasure of observing include the critically endangered Orinoco crocodile, piranhas, and anteaters.
6. Biopark Guatika
Many of the animals in Biopark Guatika are there because of issues with illegal trafficking.
They now have special conditions and must remain under the care of humans.
The zoo is set up to provide ample housing space for the physical and mental well-being of each animal in residence.
There are more than 1,000 animals in the zoo, covering more than 100 different species.
While visiting, you can also participate in various activities, including a sky coaster, ziplining, horseback riding, and buggy rides.
7. Parque Explora
A unique location, the Parque Explora combines several features.
It’s not just an aquarium; it also has a museum and planetarium for you to enjoy.
You can make an entire day out of a trip here.
The aquarium offers an excellent, closeup experience to see the marine life of Colombia.
It’s an excellent place to take your time exploring and is the main draw of the complex.
On the first floor, you can also explore an exhibit that examines what could happen if the Amazon flooded.
8. Parque de la Conservación
The Conservation Park was formerly Medellin’s Santa Fe Zoo.
In 2020, the zoo changed its primary purpose to conservation practices to protect wildlife and restore the ecosystems in which they live.
This facility provides rehabilitation services and structured release with monitoring of animals ready to return to their natural habitats.
There are over 1,000 species housed within the park, many of which are endangered.
You’ll find three different zones within the park, each housing various animals.
There is a zone dedicated to the primates, one for the felines, and the other has a mix of different species.
9. Biopark La Reserva
The Reserve is focused on rescuing animals from illegal trafficking situations.
The staff here is highly specialized in treating and releasing, when possible, animals they have rehabilitated.
Several projects exist within the park that you can participate in, including those centered on water protection, ecological restoration, and animal care.
The park places great emphasis on providing educational opportunities that broaden your horizons on preserving animals and their ecosystems.
10. Acuario Mundo Marino
South America’s largest oceanarium is the Acuario Mundo Marino.
It features 20 vast tanks that house more than 50 marine mammals.
You’ll also find an abundance of birds, fish, and coastal animals here.
There are fabulous shows featuring sea lions and the final show of the day has the star of the aquarium, the orca.
This show gathers the largest audience as the orca demonstrates its vast knowledge and abilities to perform the skills the trainers have taught it.
11. Zoológico de Santa Cruz
The Santa Cruz Zoo features excellent guided tours where you can experience the zoo in much greater depth, learning even more about the animals housed here.
While there are many animals to see, the white tiger is often favored.
It’s a great experience for all to enjoy, including children, who will get exposure to the fierce creatures of the world.
Some of the animals you can see are lions, primates, turtles, and many types of birds.
12. Port Oasis
Located in Cartagena, the Port Oasis is a reminder of Colombia’s dedication to achieving a sustainable environment.
When you disembark from your cruise, you will explore many of Colombia’s natural resources at this zoo.
You’ll find much variety, from toucans to howler monkeys, when you arrive at this beautiful zoo.
Many birds can also be observed here.
Some are in enclosures, where they permanently reside, while others are free to come and go as they please.
With food boxes available, their return is encouraged.
13. Jardin Exótico Kamala
Featuring many beautiful plants, the Jardin Exótico Kamala is also an amazing place to view reptiles in Colombia.
The facility also works with endangered species, encouraging reproduction in a protected environment to prevent extinction.
You’ll find many different reptiles at this location, surrounded by the lush beauty of the gardens.
So, if you enjoy observing reptiles and exotic plants, this zoo is worth taking the time to visit to get your fill of both.
14. Vivarium del Caribe
Not just a zoo, the Vivarium del Caribe can be described as a complete theme park and offers an exceptional experience for the entire family.
The main focus of the theme park is the evolution of animals, and it offers exhibits of ancient crocodile skull fossils.
You’ll have the chance to learn how to feed live caimans and tortoises.
Additionally, you’ll experience exploring how a crocodile farm runs and cares for the animals.
14 Best Zoos & Aquariums in Colombia – Summary Table
| Zoos & Aquariums | Address |
|---|---|
| Zoológico de Cali | Cra. 2a Oe., Terron Colorado, Cali, Valle del Cauca, Colombia |
| Oceanario | Islas del Rosario, Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia |
| Zoológico de Barranquilla | Cl. 77 #68 - 40, Nte. Centro Historico, Barranquilla, Atlántico, Colombia |
| Bioparque Ukumarí | km 14 vía Cerritos ingreso por la estación de servicio de Santa Barbara, Pereira, Risaralda, Colombia |
| Bioparque los Ocarros | 65, Villavicencio, Meta, Colombia |
| Biopark Guatika | Km 1, Vía las Antenas, Tibasosa, Boyaca, Colombia |
| Parque Explora | Cra. 52 #73-75, Aranjuez, Medellín, Aranjuez, Medellín, Antioquia, Colombia |
| Parque de la Conservación | Cra. 52 #20-63, Guayabal, Medellín, Guayabal, Medellín, Antioquia, Colombia |
| Biopark La Reserva | 250010, Cota, Cundinamarca, Colombia |
| Acuario Mundo Marino | Entre Calle 11A y Calle 10 Carrera 2 # 11 -68, El Rodadero, Magdalena, Colombia |
| Zoológico de Santa Cruz | San Antonio del Tequendama, Cundinamarca, Colombia |
| Port Oasis | Tv. 71E #31a117 #31a- a, Cartagena de Indias, Provincia de Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia |
| Jardin Exótico Kamala | Pereira, Risaralda, Colombia |
| Vivarium del Caribe | Zona norte km 15, Pontuzuela y, Bayunca, Provincia de Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia |
Colombia Safety Overview
READ THE FULL REPORT: Colombia Safety Review
Safety Index:
- OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM
- TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM
- PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM
- NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM
- MUGGING RISK: HIGH
- TERRORISM RISK: LOW
- SCAMS RISK: HIGH
- WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best zoo in Colombia?
The best zoo stands far above the rest in quality and presentation.
It features some of the most amazing domestic animals and also many exotic species.
Additionally, many excellent events happen here that you won’t want to miss.
How does Colombia strive to create a sustainable environment?
Colombia’s goal is a sustainable environment.
Through the help of the many excellent zoos and aquariums, the country can help preserve and protect many endangered and rare species.
Through rehabilitation and reproduction programs, these species are spared from extinction.
What attention does animal welfare receive in Colombia?
Several zoos over the years have converted to preservation tactics to save endangered species.
In addition, they have opted to expand habitats and enclosures to ensure the animals are well cared for.
The staff members show care and concern, keeping pens clean and even cleaning the animals.
Are there other activities at zoos and aquariums in Colombia?
Rarely will you find a zoo or aquarium without an educational opportunity that sparks the imagination.
Additionally, many of these facilities feature other activities, including horseback riding, feeding the animals, exploring museums, and shows that provide amazing entertainment.
You will not be limited to just observing the animals when you visit any of these amazing zoos and aquariums in Colombia.
What is the main focus of the aquariums in Colombia?
While you can observe many different species of marine life at the aquariums, most of them have a central theme or show that the facility is centered around.
These include demonstrations of the training the animals have received.
These shows are very well-received by guests and draw a lot of attention.
