Ardastra Gardens, Zoo and Conservation Centre
Charming Bahamian gardens and zoo famous for its unique marching pink flamingos and lush tropical foliage.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Catch the flamingo show!
Ardastra Gardens, Zoo and Conservation Centre
Best Time
Catch the flamingo show!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Charming Bahamian gardens and zoo famous for its unique marching pink flamingos and lush tropical foliage.
"A charming, tranquil garden filled with lush greenery, vibrant flowers, and exotic birds."
🎯 Flamingo Show is a Must-See
Don't miss the famous marching flamingo show! Arrive a bit early to get a good spot.
💰 Value for Money
Considered a good value for the admission price, especially if you enjoy the shows and gardens.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Marching Flamingos
Main Arena
Witness the iconic pink flamingos perform their synchronized march – a truly unique and charming spectacle.
Lush Tropical Gardens
Throughout the Gardens
Wander through vibrant, well-maintained gardens filled with exotic plants, flowers, and a variety of tropical birds.
Parrot Encounters
Aviaries
See a colorful array of parrots and other exotic birds up close in their habitats.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Manage Expectations: It's a Charming Stop, Not a World-Class Zoo
Timing is Key for the Shows
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Flamingo Show is a Must-See
Don't miss the famous marching flamingo show! Arrive a bit early to get a good spot.
💰 Value for Money
Considered a good value for the admission price, especially if you enjoy the shows and gardens.
Ardastra Garden (Nassau)
Ardastra Gardens Port Adventure in Nasau?
🚶♀️ Leisurely Pace
The gardens are a good size to explore without getting too tired, perfect for a relaxed outing.
☀️ Seek Shade
Plenty of shade available throughout the gardens, making it a comfortable escape from the sun.
Ardastra Gardens and Wildlife Conservation Excursion
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Flamingo Show is a Must-See
Don't miss the famous marching flamingo show! Arrive a bit early to get a good spot.
💰 Value for Money
Considered a good value for the admission price, especially if you enjoy the shows and gardens.
🚶♀️ Leisurely Pace
The gardens are a good size to explore without getting too tired, perfect for a relaxed outing.
☀️ Seek Shade
Plenty of shade available throughout the gardens, making it a comfortable escape from the sun.
🤔 Manage Expectations
It's a charming local attraction, not a large international zoo. Enjoy it for what it is!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Ardastra Gardens is a charming, family-friendly attraction known for its unique marching flamingo show and lush tropical gardens. Visitors appreciate its affordability and relaxed atmosphere, making it a pleasant escape from the beach. However, some reviews raise concerns about animal welfare and the overall presentation, suggesting it's best enjoyed as a quaint local spot rather than a world-class zoo.
"I went to the Bahamas in January of this year and am now trying to get caught up posting my pictures of various places with reviews. I would recommend anyone visiting Nassau to checkout this well-kept conservatory as a point of interest. I found it to be a very charming, tranquil garden, that is filled with lush greenery, vibrant flowers, exotic birds and other animals that I did not post pictures of. 😀 You have to go see for yourself!"
Hope Alexander
"Disappointing and Concerning Visit
I left Ardastra Gardens feeling deeply troubled. Many of the animals did not appear well cared for. I just keep thinking about this poor parrot sitting in its own feces, with broken perches lying inside the enclosure. In that same habitat, the bird was screaming nonstop, and I noticed loose screws that could easily injure him. It was heartbreaking.
Right next to him, another parrot was nearly attacking visitors and clearly seemed distressed by the presence of the Disney Cruise Line group. It really makes you wonder how Disney can support a facility where animals are left in their own excrement and exposed to such poor conditions.
No one was there to speak with us or offer any information. It seems like the staff only focus on large tour groups, which must be their priority, but if you come on your own, you’re left completely on your own and very poorly welcomed.
Also, the waiver at the entrance makes no sense. They ask you to fill it out, but no one checks the names or verifies anything anyway.
Even the flamingo show, which could have been charming, felt chaotic. If you pay close attention, the zookeeper seemed unsure of what he was doing. He was chasing the birds around rather than guiding them calmly.
This is not a conservation center. It does not reflect genuine care or respect for the animals. I cannot recommend supporting this place. Very disappointing."
Hannah Richardson
"This place has some cool animals but could use some others. Overall its okay if you’re just looking for something to do with family or kids. You'd have to look really closely to see the birds in my photos."
Keva Levarity
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ardastra Gardens is a popular shore excursion from the Nassau cruise port. Taxis are readily available and can take you directly there. Some cruise lines may offer organized tours, but independent travel is also straightforward and often more affordable. The journey is relatively short, making it an easy half-day trip.
While taxis are the most common and convenient way to reach Ardastra Gardens, some local buses might pass nearby. However, for ease and directness, especially if you're on a tight schedule, a taxi is recommended.
The travel time from downtown Nassau or the cruise port to Ardastra Gardens is typically around 15-20 minutes by taxi, depending on traffic conditions.
Yes, Ardastra Gardens provides parking facilities for visitors who arrive by car. This is convenient if you're renting a vehicle or taking a taxi that waits for you.
Absolutely! Ardastra Gardens is a perfect half-day excursion for cruise ship passengers looking for an activity away from the beach. It's close to the port and offers unique entertainment.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees can vary, but reviews suggest it's around $35 per person, offering good value for the experience, including the shows. It's always best to check their official website or inquire upon arrival for the most current pricing.
While online booking options might be available, many visitors purchase tickets directly at the entrance upon arrival. This is common for local attractions and cruise excursions.
Ardastra Gardens typically opens in the morning and closes in the late afternoon. It's advisable to check their specific operating hours for the day of your visit, especially to align with showtimes.
Discounts may be available for children, seniors, or group bookings. Cruise line excursions might also bundle admission with transportation. Inquire directly or check their website for potential offers.
Some visitors have mentioned filling out a waiver at the entrance. However, it's noted that these are not always strictly checked. It's a standard procedure for many attractions.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The absolute must-see is the famous marching flamingo show! Also, explore the lush tropical gardens, see the diverse collection of parrots, and don't miss the turtle activities.
The flamingo show features the vibrant pink flamingos performing a synchronized march, a unique and entertaining display that's a highlight for many visitors.
Yes, Ardastra Gardens is home to a variety of animals, including numerous species of parrots, other exotic birds, and reptiles like turtles.
Yes, it's highly recommended for families. The gardens are engaging, the flamingo show is entertaining, and it's a manageable size for kids.
Most visitors spend 2-3 hours at Ardastra Gardens, which is ample time to see the gardens, enjoy the flamingo show, and observe the other animals without feeling rushed.
📸 📸 Photography
The marching flamingos are prime photo subjects! Also, capture the vibrant colors of the tropical foliage, exotic birds, and the charming garden pathways.
Yes, photography is generally allowed throughout Ardastra Gardens for personal use. Be mindful of any specific signage regarding flash photography or restricted areas.
Morning light can be beautiful for garden shots, while the flamingo show offers dynamic action. Late afternoon can provide softer light and fewer crowds for portraits.
You can get quite close to many of the animals, especially the birds in their aviaries. However, always maintain a respectful distance and avoid disturbing them for the sake of a photo.
The main arena for the flamingo show, the colorful parrot enclosures, and the winding paths through the lush gardens are all highly photogenic spots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the shows, the gardens themselves are an adventure, with plenty of space to explore and discover different birds and animals. It's a great way to break up a day of beach activities and provide a different kind of entertainment. Pack some snacks and water, and enjoy a delightful outing that’s both fun and educational.
💰 Budget Travelers
It's a great option for a half-day excursion that won't break the bank, especially when compared to some of the more elaborate resort activities. Consider it a worthwhile investment for a memorable Bahamian experience that offers something different.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Famous Marching Flamingos
It's important to note that while many find the show delightful, some reviews suggest the execution can sometimes feel a bit chaotic, with trainers appearing unsure. However, the sheer novelty of seeing flamingos march is usually enough to impress visitors. Timing your visit to catch this specific show is highly recommended to experience what Ardastra Gardens is famous for.
Tips for the Flamingo Show:
* Arrive 10-15 minutes early to secure a good viewing spot.
* Be ready with your camera or phone to capture the unique marching action.
* Enjoy the novelty and don't expect a highly polished, professional performance.
Gardens and Conservation Efforts
While the name includes 'Conservation Centre,' some visitor reviews express mixed feelings about the extent of conservation efforts and animal welfare. Some accounts describe concerning conditions for certain animals, while others highlight the charm of the gardens and the unique animal encounters. It's a place where visitors might want to form their own opinions based on their observations during their visit.
What to Look For:
* Exotic Flora: Discover a variety of tropical plants and flowers.
* Birdlife: Observe numerous species of parrots and other tropical birds in their aviaries.
* Reptiles: Keep an eye out for turtles and other reptiles.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit