La Lajita Oasis Park | Fuerteventura

La Lajita Oasis Park (often simply referred to as Oasis Park) is one of the largest and most popular zoological parks and botanical gardens in Fuerteventura, Canary Islands. Located in the southern part of the island, near the village of La Lajita, the park spans over 780,000 square meters and offers a wide variety of attractions, making it a great family-friendly destination. It combines nature, wildlife, and cultural experiences, providing visitors with a chance to explore diverse ecosystems, enjoy animal shows, and learn about conservation efforts.

Key Features of La Lajita Oasis Park:

1. Wildlife and Animal Exhibits

• Oasis Park is home to a wide range of animals from around the world, with a focus on species from Africa, South America, and other exotic regions. The park is divided into several themed areas that feature different types of wildlife, such as:
  • African Savannah: Here, visitors can see giraffes, zebras, and antelope, which roam freely in large open spaces.
  • Reptile House: Home to a variety of reptiles, including turtles, lizards, and snakes.
  • Monkey Island: This area features different species of monkeys, such as lemurs and capuchins, in a more naturalistic setting.
  • Birds of Prey: The park houses a collection of birds of prey, including eagles, hawks, and falcons, offering opportunities for education about conservation efforts.
  • Exotic Birds: Oasis Park also has an impressive collection of colorful parrots and other exotic birds.
  • Farm Animals: A more interactive section of the park allows visitors to interact with domestic animals, such as goats, sheep, donkeys, and camels.
• Camels: One of the highlights of Oasis Park is the opportunity to take a camel ride across the park’s vast landscapes, giving visitors a unique perspective of the surrounding areas.
• Educational Focus: The park places a strong emphasis on conservation and education, offering educational talks, exhibits, and programs aimed at raising awareness about wildlife preservation, animal care, and the importance of protecting endangered species.

2. Botanical Gardens

• The park is also home to several botanical gardens, showcasing the diverse plant life of Fuerteventura and other regions. The gardens are divided into different zones, each representing a specific ecosystem or plant type:
  • Canarian Flora Garden: This section focuses on the native plants of the Canary Islands, including many endemic species that are unique to the archipelago.
  • Tropical Gardens: Featuring lush, tropical plants from regions like South America and Africa, this area is designed to recreate a tropical climate, with waterfalls, palm trees, and exotic flowering plants.
  • Cactus Garden: A notable feature of Oasis Park, this garden displays a variety of cacti and other succulents, making it a fascinating place for plant enthusiasts.
• The gardens are beautifully designed, with walking paths that allow visitors to explore and enjoy the diverse plant life. They provide an immersive experience for those interested in nature and the environment.

3. Animal Shows and Presentations

• Oasis Park offers several live animal shows throughout the day, where visitors can watch trained animals perform and interact with their caretakers. These shows are both entertaining and educational, and they provide insights into animal behavior, training techniques, and conservation efforts.
  • Birds of Prey Show: This show demonstrates the incredible flight abilities of various birds of prey, including eagles and falcons.
  • Sea Lion Show: A popular show featuring trained sea lions performing tricks and interacting with their trainers.
  • Parrot Show: An entertaining performance by parrots, showcasing their intelligence and agility.
  • Camel Ride: Visitors can also experience a camel ride around the park, offering a unique way to explore the area while learning about these fascinating animals.

4. Interactive Experiences

• Feeding and Interaction: Oasis Park allows visitors to get up close and personal with some of the animals. You can participate in feeding sessions for certain animals, such as the goats, camels, and lambs, which provides a fun, hands-on experience, especially for children.
• Camel Rides: One of the park’s highlights, visitors can take a camel ride through the park’s scenic landscapes, offering a chance to explore the area from a different perspective.
• Animal Encounters: Depending on the season, visitors may also have the opportunity to participate in animal encounters, such as meeting and interacting with lemurs, parrots, or even tortoises.

5. Conservation Efforts

• Oasis Park is dedicated to animal welfare and conservation. The park supports various conservation programs aimed at protecting endangered species, particularly those that are native to the Canary Islands and other parts of the world. It works closely with international organizations to raise awareness about the importance of preserving natural habitats and supporting wildlife protection efforts.
• The park also offers educational activities and exhibits to help raise awareness about sustainable practices and how individuals can contribute to conservation efforts.

6. Facilities and Services

• Restaurants and Cafes: Oasis Park has several dining options, including restaurants and cafes that serve a variety of meals, snacks, and drinks. You can enjoy a meal while taking in the views of the park.
• Gift Shops: There are shops within the park where visitors can purchase souvenirs, such as animal-themed toys, clothing, and local handicrafts.
• Playground: The park includes a playground area for children, making it a family-friendly destination.
• Shuttle Service: Oasis Park provides a shuttle service from the nearby town of Morro Jable and Costa Calma, making it easier for visitors to access the park without worrying about transportation.

7. Opening Hours and Tickets

• Oasis Park is typically open daily, with seasonal variations in opening hours. It’s best to check the park’s official website for the latest details on timings and pricing.
• Tickets are available for purchase online or at the entrance, and there are often discounts for families, groups, and online bookings.

8. Location and Accessibility

• La Lajita Oasis Park is located on the southern coast of Fuerteventura, near the town of La Lajita. The park is easily accessible by car from major tourist areas such as Morro Jable and Costa Calma.
• The park has ample parking space available for visitors, and the shuttle service makes it easy for those without a car to reach the park.

9. Best Time to Visit

• The best time to visit Oasis Park is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is comfortable, and the park is less crowded than during the peak summer months.
• The summer months can be very hot, so visitors should come prepared with sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water, especially if visiting in the middle of the day.

Conclusion

La Lajita Oasis Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and families traveling to Fuerteventura. With its diverse range of wildlife, interactive experiences, beautiful botanical gardens, and educational focus on conservation, it offers something for everyone. Whether you're interested in seeing exotic animals, learning about sustainable practices, or simply enjoying a fun day out in nature, Oasis Park is one of the top attractions on the island.