Mini Zoo de la Magdalena
A charming, free mini zoo on Santander's scenic Magdalena Peninsula, home to seals and penguins with beautiful sea views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Animals are active and fed
Mini Zoo de la Magdalena
Best Time
Animals are active and fed
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming, free mini zoo on Santander's scenic Magdalena Peninsula, home to seals and penguins with beautiful sea views.
"Beautiful zoo in front of the sea with seals and penguins that look for a bit of cool in their caves."
🎯 Catch the Feeding Times
Don't miss the seal and penguin feeding around 1 PM for the best viewing opportunities!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the peninsula, so comfy shoes are a must. [:athletic_shoe:]
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Seal and Penguin Encounters
Mini Zoo enclosures
Witness playful seals and charming penguins in their well-maintained habitats. Feeding times are a must-see!
Palace of Magdalena Views
Overlooking the Mini Zoo
Enjoy stunning views of the historic Palace of Magdalena from the zoo's scenic location.
Coastal Scenery
Magdalena Peninsula
The zoo is situated on a beautiful peninsula offering picturesque sea views and a refreshing coastal atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Understanding the Mini Zoo's Context
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Catch the Feeding Times
Don't miss the seal and penguin feeding around 1 PM for the best viewing opportunities!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the peninsula, so comfy shoes are a must. [:athletic_shoe:]
🐶 Pet-Friendly Paths
Bring your furry friends along; the peninsula is generally dog-friendly for walks.
📸 Capture the Views
The mini zoo offers lovely coastal vistas and glimpses of the palace. [:camerawithflash:]
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Catch the Feeding Times
Don't miss the seal and penguin feeding around 1 PM for the best viewing opportunities!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the peninsula, so comfy shoes are a must. [:athletic_shoe:]
🐶 Pet-Friendly Paths
Bring your furry friends along; the peninsula is generally dog-friendly for walks.
📸 Capture the Views
The mini zoo offers lovely coastal vistas and glimpses of the palace. [:camerawithflash:]
💡 Consider Animal Welfare
Be aware of differing opinions on the zoo's conditions before your visit. 
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors appreciate the Mini Zoo de la Magdalena for its free entry and the opportunity to see seals and penguins, especially during feeding times. The scenic location on the Magdalena Peninsula, with views of the palace and sea, is a major draw. However, some express concerns about the size of the animal enclosures and the ethics of keeping animals in captivity.
"Those who don’t like seeing animals kept in cramped conditions shouldn’t be concerned; these guys clearly have quite a bit of space, and seemed to be happy. We visited out of season and only caught occasional glimpses of seals and a single penguin, which was an absolute pleasure! I suppose the reason for a 4* rather than 5 is because it would have been nice to see some more interactive stuff for the seals to play with. Great play park nearby, ice cream shop, visitors centre and land trains. Well worth the extra walk 👍🏼"
Thomas Geoffrey
"Beautiful zoo in front of the sea. There are seals and penguins that look for a bit of cool in their caves. Around 13:00 they feed them and you can see them well."
The Frameshifter
"This was a big surprise although they don’t really have good variety of animals They were very good taken care of on top of that. We gotta appreciate that this is for your entrance so you can just walk and see some animals specially penguins and seals."
Marcos O. Diogo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Mini Zoo is located on the Magdalena Peninsula. You can reach it by walking from El Sardinero beach or by taking the tourist train that circles the park. Many visitors enjoy the scenic walk or train ride to get there.
Parking is available on the Magdalena Peninsula, but it can get busy, especially during peak season. Arriving early or considering public transport or walking is recommended.
Yes, it's a pleasant walk along the coast from El Sardinero beach to the Magdalena Peninsula, offering beautiful views along the way.
The tourist train that operates around the Magdalena Peninsula typically stops at key points of interest, including areas near the Mini Zoo, making it a convenient option.
Exploring the Magdalena Peninsula can be done on foot, by bike, or via the tourist train. The Mini Zoo is just one of the attractions; consider dedicating ample time to enjoy the palace and surrounding nature.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Mini Zoo de la Magdalena is generally free to enter, making it an accessible attraction for all visitors.
While the zoo itself doesn't have strict opening hours like a traditional ticketed attraction, it's best visited during daylight hours when the animals are visible and the peninsula is accessible. Check local information for any specific park hours.
No, as the Mini Zoo is free to access, no advance booking or tickets are required. You can simply visit when the peninsula is open.
While not a primary focus, sometimes local organizations or educational groups conduct activities. The feeding times are a highlight that many visitors attend.
To avoid crowds, aim for early mornings on weekdays or during the off-season. Weekends and peak summer months can be busier.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Mini Zoo primarily features seals and penguins. Visitors often report seeing these animals actively swimming and interacting.
Reviews are mixed, with some visitors noting the animals have 'quite a bit of space' and seem happy, while others describe the enclosures as 'sad and small.' +1
The feeding times, typically around 1 PM, are the best opportunities to see the seals and penguins actively engaged.
Yes, children often enjoy seeing the animals, and there's a great play park nearby. The tourist train ride is also a hit with families.
The peninsula offers much more, including the stunning Palace of Magdalena, beautiful gardens, walking trails, beaches like El Camello, and panoramic sea views.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture close-ups of the seals and penguins, especially during feeding times. The scenic backdrop of the sea and the Palace of Magdalena also offer great photo ops.
The animals are often active, so patience is key. Early morning or late afternoon light can be ideal for photography.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions on personal photography. However, always be mindful of other visitors and avoid disturbing the animals.
A smartphone with a good zoom function is usually sufficient for capturing the animals. For wider scenic shots, any camera will do justice to the beautiful landscape.
Drone usage is typically restricted in protected areas and near historical buildings like the Palace of Magdalena. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
that circles the area. The nearby beaches also provide opportunities for sandcastle building and seaside fun. Consider packing snacks and drinks, as facilities can be spread out. The walk around the peninsula is generally manageable for most children, but the tourist train offers a convenient way to cover more ground if little legs get tired. It's a wonderful way to combine a bit of wildlife spotting with outdoor exploration and historical sights like the Palace of Magdalena.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
This allows you to enjoy the animals and the beautiful surroundings of the Magdalena Peninsula without any cost. You can easily spend hours exploring the peninsula, enjoying the sea views, and visiting the palace grounds without spending a euro. To keep costs down, pack your own picnic to enjoy by the sea, rather than purchasing food from cafes. Walking or using public transport to reach the peninsula is also more economical than relying on taxis. The free access makes it a perfect addition to a Santander itinerary without impacting your wallet.
🐶 Dog Owners
allowing your pet to join you on your exploration. You can enjoy the scenic walks, the sea breeze, and even the views of the palace with your furry friend by your side. Remember to keep your dog on a leash where required and always clean up after them. The peninsula offers plenty of space for dogs to enjoy, and the nearby El Sardinero beaches are also often accessible to dogs, making it a great spot for a complete outing with your pet.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magdalena Peninsula: More Than Just a Zoo
Many visitors enjoy combining a visit to the mini zoo with a leisurely stroll around the peninsula. The area is known for its natural beauty and is a popular spot for picnics, leisurely walks, and enjoying the fresh sea air. It's a place where history, nature, and recreation converge, making it a must-visit destination within Santander.
For those looking to make a day of it, the peninsula also features several beaches, including the picturesque Playa del Camello, and is easily accessible via walking trails or the local tourist train, which provides a convenient way to see the sights.
+1Animal Welfare and Visitor Perspectives
It's important for potential visitors to be aware of these differing perspectives. Some travelers appreciate the opportunity to see these animals up close, especially during feeding times, and note that the zoo is free to access. Others advocate for animal liberation and believe that zoos, even those with good intentions, are not suitable environments for animals.
+1Ultimately, the decision to visit rests with the individual. Understanding these viewpoints can help visitors approach their experience with a more informed and critical eye, appreciating the natural beauty of the peninsula while also considering the ethical implications of the mini zoo.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit