Parque de la Conservación (former Santa Fe Zoo)
Discover rescued exotic animals at this affordable Medellín park, featuring a walk-through aviary and impressive hippos.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
See more active animals
Parque de la Conservación (former Santa Fe Zoo)
Best Time
See more active animals
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover rescued exotic animals at this affordable Medellín park, featuring a walk-through aviary and impressive hippos. +1
"Affordable and enjoyable with a good variety of animals, including impressive hippos and a walk-through aviary. "
🎯 Affordable Entry
Tickets are very reasonably priced, often under $8 USD, making it a great value. :moneybag:
⏰ Arrive Early for Birds
Visit before 2 PM to see more birds, especially in the aviary. :bird:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Majestic Hippos
Witness these gentle giants up close in their habitat. A definite crowd-pleaser and a memorable sight.
Walk-Through Aviary
Immerse yourself in a vibrant world of diverse bird species. A unique opportunity to get closer to nature.
Exotic Rescued Fauna
Discover a variety of rescued exotic animals, offering a glimpse into conservation efforts.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Affordable Wildlife Encounters
Timing is Key for Birdwatchers
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Lugar para acariciar y jugar con cerditos?
🎯 Affordable Entry
Tickets are very reasonably priced, often under $8 USD, making it a great value. :moneybag:
⏰ Arrive Early for Birds
Visit before 2 PM to see more birds, especially in the aviary. :bird:
🚶♀️ Explore for 2-3 Hours
Allow ample time to see most animals; the park is a good size for a few hours of exploration. +1 :walking:
🌳 Shady and Pleasant
Despite the heat, the park offers plenty of shade, making it comfortable to explore. :sunwithface:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Affordable Entry
Tickets are very reasonably priced, often under $8 USD, making it a great value. :moneybag:
⏰ Arrive Early for Birds
Visit before 2 PM to see more birds, especially in the aviary. :bird:
🚶♀️ Explore for 2-3 Hours
Allow ample time to see most animals; the park is a good size for a few hours of exploration. +1 :walking:
🌳 Shady and Pleasant
Despite the heat, the park offers plenty of shade, making it comfortable to explore. :sunwithface:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally find Parque de la Conservación to be an affordable and enjoyable experience with a good variety of animals, including impressive hippos and a walk-through aviary. Some reviews mention concerns about animal welfare and enclosure sizes, though the park is undergoing renovations to improve habitats. +2
"I really enjoyed this zoo. The price to get in was really affordable less than $8 USD. And there were tons of animals to see. I even saw some animals I’ve never even heard of before. My favorite animal to see were definitely the hippos. The zoo is pretty big as well took me about 2 hours to explore it. Definitely worth visiting if you are in the area. They also sell food and drinks as well. And it wasn’t really that crowded when I was here."
Freddy Martinez
"We were really excited to go because google said it was a wildlife refuge but it was much more of a zoo. The animals seems sad/bored, just turning around in circles for the whole time, their cages were really small for some of them :( we will not come back:("
Hel Cha
"The park is beautiful although small. We got there around 2pm and it took about 3 hours give or take. There is a aviary that you can walk through; however, if you are there late in the afternoon you might not see many of their birds. Apparently there are 30 speices! I would suggest getting there earlier than 2pm if you want to see more of the animals and birds! There definitely are many animals to see. As of writing this review, some of the habitats are closed due to renovation to make them better. Which is great! All and all, the park has potential!"
Krystina Needham
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Parque de la Conservación is accessible by public transportation in Medellín. Many visitors use taxis or ride-sharing services for convenience. Check local transit apps for the most up-to-date routes and schedules.
Information on parking availability can vary. It's advisable to check the park's official website or inquire locally if you plan to drive.
The park is a well-known destination in Medellín. Using GPS or ride-sharing apps will guide you directly to its location.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The admission price is very affordable, typically less than $8 USD per person, making it a budget-friendly option for visitors. +1
While online ticket purchasing options can change, it's often possible to buy tickets directly at the entrance. Checking the park's official website beforehand is recommended.
Information on specific discounts for children or seniors is best confirmed directly with the park. However, the general admission is already quite affordable.
The park's operating hours can vary, but it's generally open during daylight hours. It's recommended to check their official website or social media for the most current hours, especially for late afternoon visits.
Weekends can be busier, but one visitor noted it wasn't overly crowded during their visit. Arriving earlier in the day can help avoid peak crowds.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The park houses a variety of mammals, birds, and reptiles, including some exotic rescued species. Visitors have particularly enjoyed seeing the hippos. +1
Yes, there is a walk-through aviary where you can get up close to many bird species. Visiting earlier in the day increases your chances of seeing more birds.
While it's more of a traditional zoo, there are opportunities to see animals in their habitats. One visitor inquired about playing with piglets, suggesting a desire for more interactive experiences.
Most visitors spend about 2 to 3 hours exploring the park, which is a good amount of time to see the majority of the animals. +1
As of recent reviews, some habitats were undergoing renovation to improve them, which is a positive sign for future visits.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the park offers food and drinks for sale, making it convenient for visitors to grab a bite during their visit.
While not explicitly stated in reviews, it's common for many parks to allow visitors to bring their own snacks and water. It's best to check the park's specific policy.
Specific dietary options are not detailed in reviews. It's advisable to inquire about available choices upon arrival or check the park's facilities.
📸 📸 Photography
The aviary offers colorful opportunities, and the various animal enclosures provide chances for unique shots. The shaded areas can also make for pleasant photos. +1
Photography is generally allowed and encouraged for personal use. Be mindful of any specific signage regarding flash photography near certain animals.
Drone usage is typically restricted in zoological parks to ensure the safety and well-being of the animals and visitors. It's best to assume drones are not permitted.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting in the morning to ensure the most active animal viewing. While there are food concessions, bringing some snacks might be a good idea for picky eaters. The ongoing renovations suggest a commitment to improving the visitor experience, which is always a plus for families looking for a positive outing.
💰 Budget Travelers
You can easily spend a couple of hours here without breaking the bank. Pack some water and snacks to further save on expenses, though food and drinks are available on-site. It's a great way to experience a local attraction without a hefty price tag.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the Conservation Aspect
This focus on rescue and rehabilitation distinguishes it from a typical zoo. It's an opportunity to learn about the challenges faced by wildlife and the importance of conservation initiatives. The park aims to provide a safe haven and, where possible, prepare animals for potential release or offer them a permanent home.
Visitors interested in the ethical treatment of animals may find it insightful to observe the park's ongoing efforts. The commitment to renovation suggests a dedication to enhancing the living conditions for its residents.
Navigating the Park and Its Features
Beyond the aviary, the park showcases a range of mammals and reptiles. The hippos are a particular highlight, often drawing admiration from visitors. While the park's size is manageable, allowing for a 2-3 hour visit, the shaded pathways contribute to a comfortable experience, even on warmer days.
Keep an eye out for ongoing improvements, as some habitats are being renovated to enhance the animal enclosures. This commitment to betterment suggests a dynamic and evolving visitor experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit