Information
Landmark: Simon Bolivar Zoo and Botanical GardenCity: San Jose
Country: Costa Rica
Continent: North America
Simon Bolivar Zoo and Botanical Garden, San Jose, Costa Rica, North America
Overview
Tucked into San José, Costa Rica, the Simón Bolívar Zoo and Botanical Garden blends a classic zoo with leafy garden paths, offering a small but storied glimpse into the country’s past.Right in the city’s center, it opens a window onto Costa Rica’s rich biodiversity, where families and nature lovers can wander past bright orchids and fluttering butterflies without leaving town.The Simón Bolívar Zoo and Botanical Garden, founded in 1921, sits in downtown San José near the shaded streets of Barrio Amón and Barrio Otoya, and is run by Fundación Pro Zoológicos (FUNDAZOO).At the Simón Bolívar Zoo, most residents are native Costa Rican animals, many rescued from injuries or illegal trafficking and unable to return to the wild-sleek jaguars, sleepy sloths, bright scarlet macaws, and more.You’ll also see toucanets, owls, snakes, iguanas, and turtles.The grounds feel more like a sanctuary than a traditional zoo.Nearby, the botanical garden bursts with orchids, bromeliads, and fruit trees like mango and guava, with shaded paths perfect for a slow, cool walk and signs explaining plant conservation.Educational programs welcome schools and families, offering exhibits on biodiversity and Costa Rica’s ecosystems.A small, hands-on area keeps younger visitors engaged.The zoo partners with other groups to shelter injured or orphaned wildlife, strengthening its rescue and rehabilitation work.It’s open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., though hours can shift on holidays, so it’s wise to check ahead.$6-$7.Residents: Discounts available for Costa Rican citizens.Free or discounted entry for children under a certain age.Accessibility:While the zoo is relatively compact, pathways may not be fully wheelchair accessible in all areas.Tips for Visiting:Timing: Visit in the morning or early afternoon when the animals are more active.Bring Sunscreen: Though there are shaded areas, some parts of the zoo and garden are exposed to direct sunlight.Family-Friendly: Ideal for families with children, offering a combination of education and entertainment.Controversy and Modernization:Over the years, the zoo has faced criticism from animal rights groups about the size of enclosures and conditions for certain animals.In response, efforts have been made to improve enclosures, emphasize its role as a rescue and education center, and consider plans for transitioning into more of a botanical and educational space.Nearby Attractions:Barrio Amón: Known for its historic architecture and art galleries.National Park (Parque Nacional): A peaceful green space nearby.National Museum of Costa Rica: A short walk from the zoo, offering a deep dive into the country’s history and culture.Fun Fact:The zoo is named after Simón Bolívar, a South American independence leader, symbolizing its connection to Latin American heritage and education.Admission runs about $6–$7, with discounts for Costa Rican citizens and free or reduced entry for young children.The zoo’s small enough to explore in an hour, but some paths may be tricky for wheelchairs.Go in the morning or early afternoon when the monkeys are chattering in the trees, and don’t forget sunscreen-several trails are in full sun.It’s a great spot for families, blending hands-on learning with fun.While the zoo has faced criticism over enclosure sizes, it’s worked to upgrade habitats, focus on rescue and education, and explore plans to shift toward a botanical and educational space.Nearby, you can wander Barrio Amón’s historic streets, stroll the shaded National Park, or tour the National Museum of Costa Rica.Fun fact: the zoo honors Simón Bolívar, a leader of South American independence, underscoring its ties to Latin American heritage.Why visit?In the heart of San José, the Simón Bolívar Zoo and Botanical Garden offers a place to learn and unwind, where bright macaws call from leafy branches.Families, nature lovers, and curious travelers will find plenty to enjoy here, from the chatter of tropical birds to rare plants thriving right in the heart of the city.
