Quito Zoo
Discover Ecuador's native wildlife at the Quito Zoo, a rescue center offering impressive views and a chance to support conservation.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds
Quito Zoo
Best Time
Beat the crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Ecuador's native wildlife at the Quito Zoo, a rescue center offering impressive views and a chance to support conservation.
"A very good zoo, clean, with healthy animals and many indigenous species."
🎯 Allow 2-3 Hours
The zoo is bigger than it looks! Give yourself ample time to explore all the exhibits and enjoy the views.
💰 Affordable Entry
Entrance is around $5, offering great value for a well-maintained zoo with many native species.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Native Ecuadorian Wildlife
Throughout the zoo
Discover a rich variety of indigenous species, from playful otters to majestic Andean bears and giant tortoises.
Impressive Scenic Views
Various viewpoints
Enjoy breathtaking panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape as you wander through the zoo grounds.
Rescued Animal Stories
Animal enclosures
Learn about the inspiring rescue and rehabilitation journeys of animals like Sisa, the Andean bear.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Allocate Enough Time
Embrace the Rescue Mission
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Allow 2-3 Hours
The zoo is bigger than it looks! Give yourself ample time to explore all the exhibits and enjoy the views.
💰 Affordable Entry
Entrance is around $5, offering great value for a well-maintained zoo with many native species.
🚗 Uber from Quito
An Uber ride from Quito centro can cost around $15, making it a convenient way to reach the zoo.
☀️ Enjoy the Weather
The weather at the zoo is often better than in Quito city, making it a pleasant outdoor experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Allow 2-3 Hours
The zoo is bigger than it looks! Give yourself ample time to explore all the exhibits and enjoy the views.
💰 Affordable Entry
Entrance is around $5, offering great value for a well-maintained zoo with many native species.
🚗 Uber from Quito
An Uber ride from Quito centro can cost around $15, making it a convenient way to reach the zoo.
☀️ Enjoy the Weather
The weather at the zoo is often better than in Quito city, making it a pleasant outdoor experience.
🍽️ On-site Dining
There's a food area near the goats where you can order typical food and ice cream.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally find the Quito Zoo to be a clean and well-maintained facility with a good variety of animals, particularly native species. Many appreciate its role as a rescue center and the impressive scenic views. However, some feel the zoo could benefit from more animals and interactive activities.
"I didn’t realize how big the zoo is! Like others have recommended, I would agree to giving yourself 2-2.5 hours to walk and see everything. If you want to have lunch in the zoo, there is a large area near the goats where you can order typical food and enjoy ice cream. You can feel good knowing that you’re visiting a rescue zoo."
Reema Azar
"I was surprised to find this was a very good Zoo. It was clean. The animals looked healthy and well fed. They had a good variety of animals, many indigenous animals. If you enjoy visiting zoos I would definitely recommend this. Plus the weather is better there than is in Quito City usually."
Louis Samford
"The zoo didn't have many animals. They need more interactive activities. However, where you can see the views were very impressive."
Johnson Family
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Quito Zoo is located in Guayllabamba, about a 45-minute drive from Quito. Many visitors opt for an Uber, which typically costs around $15 from Quito centro. Public transportation options might be available but are less direct.
The zoo is situated in the parish of Guayllabamba, a bit outside of Quito city. While accessible by car or ride-sharing services, it's not directly within the city center.
Expect the journey to take approximately 45 minutes from Quito, depending on traffic conditions.
Yes, the zoo provides parking facilities for visitors arriving by car.
Taxis are a viable option to reach the zoo, similar to ride-sharing services like Uber.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for the Quito Zoo is very affordable, around $5 per person, making it a great value for visitors.
While advance booking might not be strictly necessary, arriving early is recommended to avoid crowds, especially during busy periods like holidays.
The zoo is generally open to visitors, with specific hours often extended during holiday periods like Carnival. It's advisable to check their official channels for the most up-to-date information.
Information on specific discounts is not widely available, but the general admission price is considered very reasonable.
The zoo is well-laid out with good facilities, suggesting it is generally stroller-friendly for families.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Most visitors recommend allocating 2 to 2.5 hours, or even up to 3 hours, to fully explore the zoo and appreciate its exhibits and views. +1
The zoo features a variety of species, with a strong focus on native Ecuadorian animals, including monkeys, tapirs, turtles, and rescued animals like Andean bears.
Yes, guided tours are offered, especially during holiday periods like Carnival, providing a more in-depth experience of the zoo.
While the zoo has impressive views, some visitors have noted a desire for more interactive activities. However, the natural setting and diverse animals offer good photographic opportunities.
The zoo offers good facilities, including shaded areas and a food court, making it a comfortable place to spend a few hours.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a food area located near the goat enclosure where you can order typical Ecuadorian dishes and enjoy ice cream.
While not explicitly stated, it's common for zoos to allow visitors to bring their own snacks and drinks. However, the on-site options are available for a full meal.
The zoo offers typical Ecuadorian food and ice cream, providing a convenient option for lunch or snacks during your visit.
Specific menu details are not provided, but typical Ecuadorian cuisine often includes vegetarian dishes. It's best to inquire on-site.
The zoo is known for its affordability, and the food options are generally considered reasonably priced for a tourist attraction.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for areas with good natural light and clear views of the animals. The scenic viewpoints also offer excellent opportunities for landscape photography.
While you can photograph the animals from designated viewing areas, remember to maintain a respectful distance and avoid disturbing them.
It's generally advisable to avoid using flash photography, as it can startle or distress animals. Always check for specific zoo regulations.
A camera with a good zoom lens is recommended for capturing clear shots of animals from a distance. A smartphone with a decent camera will also suffice for general photos.
No specific restrictions are widely mentioned, but always be mindful of the animals' well-being and avoid intrusive photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider arriving early to avoid the biggest crowds and ensure a more engaging experience for younger ones. The on-site food area provides convenient options for snacks and meals, and the affordable entrance fee makes it an accessible outing. Learning about the rescued animals can also be a valuable educational component for children.
💰 Budget Travelers
Packing your own snacks and water can further reduce expenses, though the on-site food options are available and not overly expensive. The zoo provides a fulfilling experience without breaking the bank, focusing on native species and conservation.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Quito Zoo's Conservation Role
+1By visiting the zoo, you directly contribute to these conservation initiatives. The funds generated from ticket sales and on-site purchases help maintain the facilities, provide specialized veterinary care, and support breeding programs aimed at increasing populations of endangered species. This focus on rescue and rehabilitation makes the Quito Zoo Ecuador experience particularly meaningful for ethically-minded travelers.
Visitors can learn about the unique ecosystems of Ecuador and the challenges faced by its native fauna. The zoo's layout often highlights the natural habitats of its residents, fostering a deeper appreciation for biodiversity. This educational aspect, combined with the opportunity to see animals up close, creates a powerful learning experience for all ages.
Navigating Your Visit: Timing and Crowds
For a more relaxed experience with fewer crowds, arriving early in the morning is highly recommended. Weekdays also tend to be less busy than weekends. During holiday periods, such as Carnival, the zoo can become quite crowded, though special events and guided tours are often organized during these times.
The weather at the zoo is often noted as being more pleasant than in Quito city itself, making it an enjoyable outdoor activity. The zoo is also described as being well-laid out with good facilities and plenty of shade, contributing to a comfortable visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit