Portugal, a country known for many marvels, vibrant cities, spectacular infrastructure, and a diverse range of landscapes, also has a hidden secret – its zoos and aquariums.
The law holds animals very dear, allowing them to live free and breed unless they are endangered or you have a license to own them.
This article will take a closer look at the 13 best zoos and aquariums in Portugal that you shouldn’t miss under any circumstances.
Contents
- Best Zoos & Aquariums in Portugal
- 1. Zoo De Lagos
- 2. Oceanário de Lisboa
- 3. SEA LIFE Centre Porto
- 4. Lisbon Zoo
- 5. Santo Inácio Zoo
- 6. Vasco Da Gama Aquarium
- 7. Zoomarine Algarve
- 8. Aquário da Madeira
- 9. Badoca Safari Park
- 10. Krazy World
- 11. Quinta das Palmeiras Zoo
- 12. Fluviário de Mora
- 13. Terra Zoo
- 13 Best Zoos & Aquariums in Portugal – Summary Table
- Portugal Safety Overview
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the best zoos & aquariums in Portugal?
- Are there any interactive activities at the zoos & aquariums in Portugal?
- What type of wildlife can I find at the zoos & aquariums in Portugal?
- Are the zoos and aquariums suitable for kids in Portugal?
- Are the zoos & aquariums affordable in Portugal?
- Are there any animal conservation efforts in place in Portugal?
- What makes the zoos and aquariums in Portugal different?
- What other activities can I do at the zoos & aquariums in Portugal?
- Are there any rules I should follow when visiting?
Best Zoos & Aquariums in Portugal
1. Zoo De Lagos
The Safari Park of the Western Algarve, this zoo houses a range of animals from foxes and wolves to zebras and giraffes.
There is an impressive array of birds, reptiles, mammals, and aquatic life.
During my visit to the zoo, I found that the animals are relatively tame, but keeping your distance is still a good idea to keep your distance.
I also fed the zebras and giraffes, which was a fantastic experience.
2. Oceanário de Lisboa
Situated on the edge of Lake Belém in Lisbon is the spectacular Oceanário de Lisboa Marine Centre, home to some 400 species of aquatic creatures, including sharks, rays, and penguins.
It is well-ranked as one of the best aquariums in Portugal, and for a good reason.
It’s not just fish and sea horses that you get to see in the zoo, but also other forms of sea life, such as algae, crabs, starfish, and jellyfish.
3. SEA LIFE Centre Porto
This giant aquarium near central Porto features over 5000 sea creatures from around the world, including turtles, sharks, stingrays, algae, plants, kelp, and more.
You’ll be able to explore different habitats and understand how they interact with the marine world.
The center also has interactive touch pools, educational activities, and an impressive 3D cinema experience – not just about the animals themselves but their habitat.
It also teaches children, adults, and the elderly about the different actions everyone can take to improve the overall health of aquatic life.
4. Lisbon Zoo
Lisbon Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in Europe, founded in 1884 and situated near the city center.
It’s a great place to visit with the family, as they have plenty of interactive activities and immersive experiences for kids.
I was astounded by the vibrant atmosphere in the zoo and how well-maintained it was!
Animals, including tigers, giraffes, elephants, and monkeys, are housed here, along with an impressive selection of aquatic life.
It also has an educational component with interactive talks and programs to spread awareness about wildlife conservation.
5. Santo Inácio Zoo
Situated in North Portugal is the small but charming Santo Inácio Zoo which houses over 130 species of animals from around the world – primarily birds, mammals, and reptiles.
This modest-sized Zoo is perfect for an afternoon filled with wildlife spotting and exploration.
If you’re looking to get up close and personal with exotic animals, the zoo offers animal encounters such as feeding the Lemurs or interacting with their resident parrots.
6. Vasco Da Gama Aquarium
The Vasco Da Gama Aquarium in Portimão is a great place to go if you’re looking for a fun-filled day out!
There are over 100 species of marine life here, including Sharks, Turtles, Rays, and more.
The aquarium has some exciting activities, such as snorkeling in its pool with sharks, interactive talks which offer insight into the world of aquatic life, and educational programs.
They teach kids about Vasco Da Gama’s identity and why he is vital to Portuguese history.
7. Zoomarine Algarve
If you’re looking for an exciting day out with the family, then the Zoomarine Algarve is worth a visit.
It features some of the most exciting attractions in Portugal, such as its Dolphin Show and Shark Tunnel.
The park houses over 30 species of birds, mammals, and reptiles.
There are also plenty of interactive activities, such as petting zoo sessions and an underwater robotics experience.
8. Aquário da Madeira
Located in Funchal on the island of Madeira is this stunning aquarium home to schools of fish from all over the world.
You’ll amaze yourself with the sheer variety of sea life here, including sharks, rays, and sea turtles.
The Aquário da Madeira is also one of the first aquariums in Portugal to produce its own coral – a sure testament to its commitment to marine conservation efforts.
9. Badoca Safari Park
Badoca Safari Park is situated on the outskirts of Alentejo in Portugal and is the perfect place for an exciting day out with your family.
This safari park offers a unique experience where visitors can observe over 500 wild animals from around the world living happily in their habitats.
Visitors can explore different biomes, such as forested areas, deserts, and wetlands which are home to various species of birds, reptiles, mammals, and primates.
10. Krazy World
Krazy World is a family-friendly amusement park close to the Algarve coast.
The park has plenty of activities for adults and kids alike – everything from go-karting, paintballing, and mini golf to swimming pools with slides and an interactive zoo!
It features over 150 animals, such as monkeys, parrots, and exotic reptiles, which can be observed up close.
There’s even a petting zoo where you can feed llamas, rabbits, and other friendly creatures.
11. Quinta das Palmeiras Zoo
Quinta das Palmeiras Zoo is located in the Algarve and features over 500 animals from 120 different species.
It offers various educational talks and activities, such as an interactive play area, animal encounters, and daily shows.
Visitors can observe exotic birds, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians in their natural habitats or participate in one of their exciting interactive programs.
With plenty of fun activities for kids and adults alike, this zoo will surely be a hit.
12. Fluviário de Mora
A name that literally means ‘river’, Fluviário de Mora is the perfect way to immerse yourself in nature.
Located in Algarve, this beautiful aquarium houses over 100 species of fish and other aquatic life – including sharks, rays, turtles, and more.
The aquarium has various interactive activities, such as feeding sessions with their Sea Turtles, educational talks about their aquatic inhabitants, and a thrilling underwater tunnel.
Whatever you choose to do, a visit to Fluviário de Mora is sure to be a memorable experience!
13. Terra Zoo
Located in the heart of the Serra da Estrela Natural Park, Terra Zoo is an animal park with a difference.
It has over 200 species of animals from around the world living in natural habitats and offers interactive activities and educational talks about conservation and nature.
Visitors can witness exciting shows such as their bird-of-prey demonstration or participate in fun activities like horse riding or archery.
With its unique combination of conservation and entertainment, Terra Zoo will keep you entertained for hours on end!
13 Best Zoos & Aquariums in Portugal – Summary Table
| Zoos & Aquariums | Address |
|---|---|
| Zoo De Lagos | Medronhal, Quinta Figueiras, 8600-013 Lagos, Portugal |
| Oceanário de Lisboa | Esplanada Dom Carlos I s/nº, 1990-005 Lisboa, Portugal |
| SEA LIFE Centre Porto | R. Particular Nº 1 Castelo do Queijo 1ª, 4100-379 Porto, Portugal |
| Lisbon Zoo | Praça Marechal Humberto Delgado, 1549-004 Lisboa, Portugal |
| Santo Inácio Zoo | R. 5 de Outubro 4503, 4430-809 Avintes, Portugal |
| Vasco Da Gama Aquarium | R. Direita do Dafundo, 1495-718 Cruz Quebrada, Portugal |
| Zoomarine Algarve | N125 KM 65, 8201-864 Guia, Portugal |
| Aquário da Madeira | R. do Forte de São João Baptista 7A, 9270-095 Porto Moniz, Portugal |
| Badoca Safari Park | 170, 7501-909 Vila Nova de Stº André, Portugal |
| Krazy World | Lagoa de Viseu - Estrada Algoz, 8365-907 Algoz, Portugal |
| Quinta das Palmeiras Zoo | Est. das Pedras Vermelhas, 9400-235 Porto Santo, Portugal |
| Fluviário de Mora | Parque Ecológico do Gameiro, 7490-909 Cabeção, Portugal |
| Terra Zoo | Strada Petru Rareș 26, Arad 310206, Romania |
Portugal Safety Overview
READ THE FULL REPORT: Portugal Safety Review
Safety Index:
- OVERALL RISK: LOW
- TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
- PICKPOCKETS RISK: HIGH
- NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW
- MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM
- TERRORISM RISK: LOW
- SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM
- WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best zoos & aquariums in Portugal?
Some of the best zoos & aquariums in Portugal include Zoo De Lagos, Oceanário de Lisboa, SEA LIFE Centre Porto, Lisbon Zoo, Santo Inácio Zoo, Vasco Da Gama Aquarium, Zoomarine Algarve, Aquário da Madeira, and Badoca Safari Park.
Are there any interactive activities at the zoos & aquariums in Portugal?
Yes! Most offer exciting interactive activities such as animal encounters and educational talks about wildlife conservation.
There are also plenty of other activities, such as go-karting, petting zoo sessions, and an underwater robotics experience.
What type of wildlife can I find at the zoos & aquariums in Portugal?
Depending on which zoo or aquarium you visit, you can encounter various species, such as sharks, penguins, sea lions, flamingos, and monkeys.
Are the zoos and aquariums suitable for kids in Portugal?
Absolutely!
Most of them offer plenty of activities that are tailored specifically for children.
Plus, you’ll be able to keep the little ones entertained with various animal encounters and interactive experiences.
Are the zoos & aquariums affordable in Portugal?
Yes, Portugal is most famous for offering tickets and packages which are reasonably priced – so you don’t have to worry about breaking the bank.
Plus, some offer discounts for groups or families, so check out what each one offers before you go.
Are there any animal conservation efforts in place in Portugal?
Yes, many of the zoos & aquariums in Portugal are committed to protecting wildlife and its habitats.
Some even have dedicated conservation efforts, such as coral production, which helps restore marine ecosystems.
What makes the zoos and aquariums in Portugal different?
The zoos & aquariums in Portugal offer a unique experience for visitors – you can observe wild animals from around the world, participate in educational talks about wildlife conservation, and enjoy other interactive activities.
Plus, with all the special discounts available, it’s easy to have an affordable day out!
What other activities can I do at the zoos & aquariums in Portugal?
Aside from all the animal encounters you can experience, some zoos & aquariums also offer other exciting activities such as go-karting, paintballing, and mini golf – so there’s something for everyone.
Are there any rules I should follow when visiting?
It’s essential to respect the environment when visiting these places and adhere to them.
The management guarantees an unforgettable experience filled with fun activities and fascinating wildlife within the rules.
Whether it’s Sharks or Sea Turtles that capture your interest, there’s something for everyone at these incredible attractions.
In my opinion, Portugal’s zoos and aquariums are not only a great way to observe and learn about different species of animals, but also to support conservation efforts.