Cali Zoo
Discover over 2,500 animals at Cali Zoo, a conservation hub showcasing native and international species in beautifully designed habitats.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, active animals
Cali Zoo
Best Time
Fewer crowds, active animals

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover over 2,500 animals at Cali Zoo, a conservation hub showcasing native and international species in beautifully designed habitats.
"This zoo is very beautiful and very cleanly kept. Everyone was nice and we had an amazing time."
🎯 Arrive Early for Best Experience
Beat the crowds and heat by arriving right at opening. Mornings are great for active animals!
🎟️ Check Ticket Prices Online
Prices vary for adults, children, and seniors. Verify current rates on the official website.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Spectacular Asian Exhibit
Asia Section
Encounter tigers, gibbons, and Komodo dragons in a stunning new section that transports you to Asia.

Andean Spectacled Bear
Andean Bear Enclosure
Spot the elusive Andean spectacled bear, a unique species native to South America.
Vibrant Otter Habitat
Otter Enclosure
Watch playful otters swim and interact in their specially designed aquatic environment.
Nutria Enrichment Activities
Nutria Enclosure
See how the zoo provides stimulating enrichment for its nutria, like special fish and fruit ice cream.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Heat
Plan Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Best Experience
Beat the crowds and heat by arriving right at opening. Mornings are great for active animals!
🎟️ Check Ticket Prices Online
Prices vary for adults, children, and seniors. Verify current rates on the official website.
📸 Capture Amazing Shots
Mornings offer softer light for photography. Get creative with angles to showcase the animals!
💧 Stay Hydrated
Cali can be warm. Bring water or be prepared to purchase it to stay comfortable during your visit.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Best Experience
Beat the crowds and heat by arriving right at opening. Mornings are great for active animals!
🎟️ Check Ticket Prices Online
Prices vary for adults, children, and seniors. Verify current rates on the official website.
📸 Capture Amazing Shots
Mornings offer softer light for photography. Get creative with angles to showcase the animals!
💧 Stay Hydrated
Cali can be warm. Bring water or be prepared to purchase it to stay comfortable during your visit.
🐾 Service Animals Policy
Be aware of the zoo's policies regarding service animals, as experiences can vary.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Cali Zoo for its beautiful design, cleanliness, and the impressive variety of well-cared-for animals. Many highlight the engaging exhibits and the overall positive experience for families and couples. Some note that foreigner prices are higher but consider it worthwhile.
"Loved the visit to this zoo with my girlfriend. So many amazing animals to see and they are all well taken care of. The exhibitions are also decorated in a very cute way. It’s 50k pesos for foreigners but it’s totally worth it"
Daniel H
"We came to visit the zoo all the way from Arizona, USA. I have nothing but great things to say about our experience here. The zoo is very beautiful and very cleanly kept. Everyone was nice and we had an amazing time. Our family had an amazing time. I would highly recommend this zoo."
Cesar Espinoza
"This place was fun! Lots of animals, some native to Colombia, lots of historical information around.
I was excited to see the oso-con-anteojos, which I got to see but the bear kept pacing in the corner. Not sure what was going on, my son was excited see the bear, and the monkeys, lions, and.. bear. :)"
Carlos Martin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Cali Zoo is accessible by various public transportation options in Cali. Many visitors opt for taxis or ride-sharing services for convenience. If driving, check for available parking information on their official website.
Yes, the zoo is a well-known landmark in Cali, Colombia. Using GPS or asking locals for directions to 'Zoológico de Cali' will easily guide you there.
From downtown Cali, you can take a taxi, a ride-sharing app (like Uber or Didi), or local buses that pass near the zoo's vicinity. Confirm routes with local transport apps.
Yes, several local bus routes serve the area around the Cali Zoo. It's advisable to check current bus routes and schedules as they can change.
Information on parking availability and any associated fees should be checked on the official Cali Zoo website. It's always a good idea to have a backup plan for transportation.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary for adults, children, and seniors. Foreigner prices might differ. For example, one TikTok mentioned 30,000 COP for adults and 24,000 COP for children. Always check the official website for the most up-to-date pricing.
It is highly recommended to purchase tickets online in advance, especially during peak seasons or for special events, to avoid queues and ensure entry. Check the official Cali Zoo website for online booking options.
The zoo typically opens around 9:00 AM. It's best to confirm the exact opening and closing times on the official Cali Zoo website, as these can vary by day and season.
Discounts may be available for seniors, children, and sometimes for groups. Check the official website or inquire at the ticket counter for any current promotions or special rates.
The zoo has specific policies regarding service animals. While some visitors have reported being allowed access with service dogs, others have faced restrictions. It's crucial to contact the zoo directly to understand their current regulations.
📸 📸 Photography
The best times for photography are early mornings when the light is soft and animals are often more active. Late afternoons can also offer good lighting before closing.
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed. However, professional photography or videography might require special permits. Always check the zoo's guidelines.
A versatile zoom lens is recommended to capture animals from a distance. A wide-angle lens can be useful for landscape shots of the exhibits.
The new Asian section with tigers and Komodo dragons, as well as the vibrant otter habitats, offer fantastic photo opportunities.
Patience is key! Observe animal behavior and visit exhibits at different times of the day. Early mornings are often best for seeing more active animals.
🎫 🦁 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the tigers and other Asian species in the new exhibit, the Andean spectacled bear, and the playful otters. The zoo houses over 2,500 animals.
Absolutely! The zoo is designed to be engaging for all ages, with diverse exhibits and educational information. It's a great family outing.
Plan for at least 3-4 hours to fully explore the zoo and appreciate the different exhibits. If you want a more leisurely visit, consider allocating half a day.
The zoo occasionally hosts special events, like the 'Mitos y Leyendas' in October, which offers a unique nighttime experience. Check their social media and website for announcements.
The Cali Zoo is dedicated to conservation, housing many endangered species and contributing to biodiversity preservation efforts.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the zoo typically has food and beverage options available for purchase within its premises. You can find snacks, meals, and drinks to enjoy during your visit.
It's advisable to check the zoo's official policy on outside food and beverages. Some zoos allow it, while others have restrictions.
Expect typical zoo fare, which may include fast food, snacks, and refreshing drinks. The variety can depend on the specific concessions available.
Information on specific dietary options like vegetarian or vegan meals is best confirmed directly with the zoo's food service providers or by checking their website.
Food prices at attractions can sometimes be higher than outside. It's a good idea to budget accordingly or consider bringing some of your own snacks if permitted.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider arriving early to avoid the midday heat and crowds, which can be especially helpful with younger children. Pack snacks and drinks (if permitted) to keep energy levels up. The zoo's educational displays also offer a great opportunity for kids to learn about different species and their habitats.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Bring a versatile zoom lens to get close-ups of the animals without disturbing them. Look for opportunities to capture unique behaviors and interactions. Remember to respect the animals' space and any posted photography guidelines.
🌍 Travelers Seeking Native Wildlife
Learning about these local animals can deepen your appreciation for Colombia's rich biodiversity. The zoo's historical information displays can offer insights into the native wildlife and conservation challenges they face.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Conservation Efforts at Cali Zoo
Their commitment extends to educating the public about the importance of protecting wildlife. Through informative displays and engaging exhibits, visitors gain a deeper understanding of the challenges facing many animal populations and how they can contribute to conservation efforts. This focus on education makes a visit to the zoo a meaningful experience.
Recent initiatives, like the enrichment activities for animals such as Kirpa the nutria, demonstrate a dedication to the well-being and mental stimulation of the animals under their care. This holistic approach to animal welfare is a cornerstone of their conservation mission.
Navigating the Cali Zoo with Service Animals
It's crucial for visitors planning to bring a service animal to contact the zoo directly well in advance of their visit. This allows for clarification of their current policies and ensures a smoother experience. Understanding the specific requirements and any designated routes or limitations is essential.
While the zoo is beautiful and offers a lot to see, potential visitors with service animals should be prepared for the possibility of restrictions and prioritize clear communication with the zoo administration to manage expectations.
Special Events and Themed Experiences
These events often involve extended hours, allowing visitors to explore the zoo after dark, adding an element of mystery and wonder. The zoo's team works diligently behind the scenes to create these immersive experiences, making them memorable for all ages.
Attending these special events, like the 'Carrera del Zoo' (Zoo Race) preparations, also highlights the zoo's dedication to ensuring the tranquility and well-being of its animals during public activities. They meticulously plan routes and observe animal behavior to minimize stress.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit