Guadalajara Zoo 🇲🇽

As the largest zoo in Mexico by species population and one of Latin America's premier zoological parks, Zoológico Guadalajara sits right on the edge of the scenic Barranca de Oblatos (Huentitan Canyon). Operating since 1988, this expansive attraction serves as a critical conservation and research hub aimed at protecting species and preserving its natural canyon surroundings. You will encounter an incredible diversity of animal life, especially birds, mammals, and reptiles.

Explore Antártida to see Adélie and gentoo penguins in a climate-controlled Antarctic habitat, or head to Villa Australiana for red kangaroos and colorful Australian birds like rainbow lorikeets. Ride a train-like vehicle through the Safari Masai Mara to view reticulated giraffes, African elephants, and white rhinos alongside a guide dressed in Masai attire. Do not miss the Herpetarium, Latin America's largest reptile house, or Los Secretos de la Selva Tropical, housing Bengal tigers, Bornean orangutans, and Norton the Baird's tapir.

From rare Mexican wolves to Antillean manatees at Puerto Manati, this park offers an extraordinary wildlife journey in Jalisco.

What to see at Guadalajara Zoo

• Ride through the Safari Masai Mara to see African elephants, giraffes, and rhinos.
• Explore the Herpetarium, widely recognized as the largest reptile house in Latin America.
• Visit Antártida's chilled habitat to watch Adélie and gentoo penguins swim and play.
• See a wide array of primates in Monkeyland, including western lowland gorillas and lemurs.

Visiting tips

Take the train-like Safari Masai Mara tour to observe free-roaming African wildlife while learning from a guide dressed in traditional Masai attire.

How long: 3-4 hours · Best time: Morning

How to get there & what’s nearby

Guadalajara Zoo is easy to reach on Zapopan’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Guadalajara Cathedral and Basilica of Our Lady of Zapopan. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Zapopan travel guide.