Amaru Bioparque
A mountainside sanctuary for rescued animals, offering an adventurous hike through diverse habitats and a commitment to conservation.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Amaru Bioparque
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A mountainside sanctuary for rescued animals, offering an adventurous hike through diverse habitats and a commitment to conservation.
"Best zoo I have ever been to. Bring your boots if you go on a wet day."
👟 Wear Hiking Shoes
Trails are hilly and unpaved; comfortable, sturdy footwear is essential for exploring. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
Strategically placed vendors sell refreshments, but carrying your own is wise for the hike. :ice_cream:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Andean Condor Exhibit
Aviary
Witness the majestic Andean Condor, a symbol of the Andes, born through assisted breeding programs.
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Diverse Animal Habitats
Various enclosures
Explore a wide variety of animals, from jaguars and monkeys to diverse bird species, all in spacious, naturalistic environments.
Night Safari
Specific tours
Experience the park after dark on a unique Night Safari, offering a different perspective on nocturnal animals.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for an Adventure
Focus on Conservation
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Hiking Shoes
Trails are hilly and unpaved; comfortable, sturdy footwear is essential for exploring. +1 :athletic_shoe:
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
Strategically placed vendors sell refreshments, but carrying your own is wise for the hike. :ice_cream:
⏳ Allow 2-3 Hours
The park is extensive; give yourself ample time to see all the exhibits without rushing. :hourglass:
☀️ Visit in the Morning
Mornings offer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, making for a more pleasant visit. :sun:
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Hiking Shoes
Trails are hilly and unpaved; comfortable, sturdy footwear is essential for exploring. +1 :athletic_shoe:
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
Strategically placed vendors sell refreshments, but carrying your own is wise for the hike. :ice_cream:
⏳ Allow 2-3 Hours
The park is extensive; give yourself ample time to see all the exhibits without rushing. :hourglass:
☀️ Visit in the Morning
Mornings offer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, making for a more pleasant visit. :sun:
📸 Capture the Wildlife
Bring your camera to photograph the diverse species in their naturalistic habitats. :camera:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Amaru Bioparque for its spacious, naturalistic animal habitats and its strong conservation mission. Many highlight the invigorating hike through the mountainside terrain as a unique aspect of the visit. However, some reviews note that the trails can be challenging, and a few mention a perceived decline in animal numbers or a need for renovations, alongside price increases.
"This is an excellent zoo - spread out in a loop that took me about two hours to see it all . It is kid friendly . Some zoos have the animals in small confined spaces where you feel sorry for them but not here . There is of space with a very wide variety of animals -monkeys , birds of all kinds, reptiles , and various kinds of cats including a couple of beautiful jaguars . It is hilly and unpaved but that makes it an adventure . There are strategically placed bathrooms and places to buy water and refreshments . Great way to spend some time outside !"
frank heindel
"This zoo is amazing on many levels. First, you will get exercise here. I would say that this is a moderate hiking experience, maybe difficult for some. I love that the animals seem to be in a very natural environment and can be seen from several different viewpoints. The dining area is nicely positioned at about the halfway mark and has a good selection of food. There are bathrooms at the beginning of the hike, halfway and at the end. There are many efforts made by the zoo to educate the visitors on the animals and the environment. My family has been here twice and have enjoyed each time very much."
Mandy M
"Best zoo I have ever been to. Bring your boots if you go on a wet day. The trails are not handicap accessible. But the animals are beautiful. Get to the bird exhibit it will
Change your life."
Muriel Generous
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Amaru Bioparque is located on the Cuenca-Azogues highway, Km 10.5. You can take a taxi or a local bus from Cuenca. Some visitors mention it's a bit outside of town, so factor in travel time.
Yes, local buses that travel along the Cuenca-Azogues highway will stop near the bioparque. Taxis are also readily available in Cuenca. +1
Many visitors opt for taxis for convenience, especially if traveling with family or carrying items. Buses are a more budget-friendly option. +1
The bioparque is situated about 10.5 km outside of Cuenca, making it a short drive or bus ride away.
Yes, there are parking facilities available for visitors who choose to drive to the bioparque.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Amaru Bioparque is typically open daily from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, including weekends and holidays. It's always a good idea to check their official website or social media for any last-minute changes. +1
Ticket prices can vary, but generally, it's considered a good value for the experience. Some reviews mention prices have increased, so confirm current rates before your visit.
While not explicitly stated in all sources, it's often recommended to check the official Amaru Bioparque website or inquire directly about online ticket purchasing options to save time.
Information on discounts isn't widely available in the provided content. It's best to inquire directly with the bioparque about potential student, senior, or group rates.
Most visitors spend between 2 to 3 hours exploring the bioparque, though some may take longer if they enjoy hiking and observing animals. +1
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can see a wide variety of rescued animals, including jaguars, monkeys, various birds, reptiles, and the iconic Andean Condor. +1
Yes, it's very kid-friendly! The hilly terrain makes it an adventure, but it's important to supervise children closely due to the uneven paths. +1
The trails are natural, unpaved, and can be quite hilly, offering a moderate to challenging hiking experience. Wear appropriate footwear! +1
While not explicitly detailed, the bioparque focuses on educational aspects. Some TikToks mention guided experiences like the Night Safari.
There are strategically placed bathrooms, and places to buy water and refreshments. Some reviews mention limited bathrooms, so use them when you see them! +1
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there's a dining area, often described as being nicely positioned about halfway through the visit, offering a selection of food and refreshments.
The dining area typically offers a good selection of food suitable for a park visit, catering to visitors after their hike.
While not explicitly forbidden, it's generally a good idea to check the bioparque's policy. However, bringing water is highly recommended.
Specific dietary options are not detailed in the provided content. It's advisable to inquire at the dining area upon arrival.
The dining area is generally well-positioned, but given the park's hilly terrain, accessibility might be a consideration for those with mobility challenges. +1
📸 📸 Photography
Everywhere! The naturalistic habitats, diverse animals, and scenic mountain views offer fantastic photo opportunities. The bird exhibit is particularly recommended.
Drone usage policies are not specified. It's best to assume they are not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise by the bioparque.
Photography is generally allowed, but always be mindful of the animals' well-being and avoid using flash if it might disturb them.
A telephoto lens is useful for capturing animals from a distance, but a standard zoom lens will also work well for most exhibits.
The Night Safari offers a unique chance for low-light photography, and the Andean Condor exhibit is a must-capture moment.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting in the morning to avoid the midday heat and larger crowds. While there are places to buy refreshments, bringing some snacks and water can be helpful, especially for younger children. The overall experience is designed to be engaging and memorable for the whole family, turning a visit into an active and educational outing.
🚶♀️ Active Explorers & Hikers
Give yourself ample time, at least 2-3 hours, to fully explore the diverse exhibits and enjoy the natural beauty. The park's layout encourages a continuous journey, making it a great way to combine your love for nature with physical activity. Remember to stay hydrated and take advantage of the rest stops and facilities available along the route.
🌍 Eco-Conscious Travelers
The naturalistic habitats are a testament to their commitment to animal welfare and providing an educational platform for visitors. Learn about critical conservation projects, such as the Andean Condor breeding program, and understand the challenges faced by endangered species. Your visit directly contributes to these vital efforts, making it a trip that aligns with responsible tourism values.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Conservation Mission of Amaru Bioparque
+1This commitment to conservation is evident in the naturalistic habitats designed to mimic the animals' native environments. Visitors often praise how spacious and well-maintained these enclosures are, allowing animals to exhibit natural behaviors. This approach not only benefits the animals but also provides a more authentic and educational experience for guests, fostering a deeper understanding of biodiversity and the importance of protecting these species.
Furthermore, Amaru actively participates in breeding programs for endangered species, such as the Andean Condor. The successful birth of a female condor chick through assisted breeding techniques highlights their dedication to preserving species that are on the brink of extinction.
+1 This focus on conservation makes a visit to Amaru Bioparque a meaningful contribution to wildlife protection efforts.Navigating the Terrain: A Hiker's Paradise
The loop trail system is designed to take you through various zones, offering a comprehensive exploration of the park's inhabitants. While it provides a good workout, it's important to note that the terrain might be challenging for individuals with mobility issues, older adults, or very young children who are prone to tripping.
Despite the physical demands, many visitors find the hiking aspect to be an enjoyable part of the adventure, adding to the immersive experience of being in nature. The strategically placed bathrooms and refreshment stands are helpful amenities along the way, ensuring a more comfortable journey.
Educational Encounters and Community Involvement
+1The bioparque also engages with the local community and academic institutions. Students from environmental engineering and veterinary programs often visit for educational experiences, observing rescued wildlife and learning about conservation efforts firsthand.
+1 This collaborative approach underscores Amaru's role as a living laboratory and a hub for environmental learning.Beyond education, Amaru actively seeks community involvement through programs like their volunteer initiatives, encouraging people to become guardians of wildlife and contribute to conservation efforts.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit