Loro Parque | Tenerife

Information

Landmark: Loro Parque
City: Tenerife
Country: Canary Islands
Continent: Europe

Loro Parque, Tenerife, Canary Islands, Europe

Loro Parque is a zoological park and botanical garden situated on the northern coast of Tenerife, Canary Islands. It functions as a conservation center and tourist attraction, housing a diverse collection of animal species and plant life.

Visual Characteristics

The park spans 13.5 hectares, characterized by lush tropical vegetation, including extensive orchid gardens and palm collections. Architectural elements feature a prominent Thai village design at the entrance and throughout various sections. Animal enclosures are designed to replicate natural habitats, such as the ice-covered environment of Planet Penguin and the dense foliage of the Gorilla Jungle. Water features include large aquariums and artificial lakes for marine mammals.

Location & Access Logistics

Loro Parque is located in Puerto de la Cruz, approximately 30km west of Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Access is primarily via the TF-5 motorway. The park offers a free train service from various points in Puerto de la Cruz directly to its entrance. Paid parking facilities are available on-site. Public bus lines, such as TITSA services, connect Puerto de la Cruz with other major towns on Tenerife, with stops near the park.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The park was founded by Wolfgang Kiessling and opened on December 17, 1972. Its original purpose was to create a "paradise for parrots," initially housing 150 parrots. Over decades, it expanded to include a wide range of animal species and became a significant center for animal conservation and breeding programs, particularly for endangered parrot species.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can attend scheduled animal shows, including the Orca Ocean show, the Loro Show featuring parrots, and the Dolphinarium show. Specific exhibits include Planet Penguin, which features a large iceberg and a moving walkway, the Aquarium with a shark tunnel, and the Gorilla Jungle. The park also features a dedicated area for chimpanzees and a large aviary.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are located throughout the park. Numerous shaded areas are provided by extensive tree cover and architectural structures. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally strong across the park. Multiple food vendors, including restaurants and snack bars, offer various dining options. Gift shops are available at the entrance and near major exhibits. The park is largely accessible for strollers and wheelchairs, with ramps and elevators where necessary.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit is during the morning, shortly after opening, to experience shows and exhibits with fewer crowds. The months from April to June and September to November offer pleasant weather conditions, avoiding the peak summer heat and school holiday crowds. Tenerife's climate is generally mild year-round, making it suitable for visits in any season.

Facts & Legends

Loro Parque holds the largest collection of parrots in the world. It is also home to the Loro Parque Fundación, an international non-profit organization dedicated to the conservation of endangered species, which has invested significantly in conservation projects globally.