Loro Parque: A World of Animals and Fun in Tenerife
In today’s article, we will visit one of the most important and most visited attractions in Tenerife and the Canary Islands – the famous Loro Parque. This unique zoo, located on the outskirts of Puerto de la Cruz, impresses not only with its unique appearance, but also with its wide variety of animals from all over the world. During the day, you can experience several commentary shows, starring the park’s own inhabitants. Loro Parque is a place where visitors of all ages will enjoy themselves and where everyone will leave with an unforgettable experience.
The Founding of Loro Parque – Parrots in the Main Role
The name of the zoo, translated as “Parrot Park“, refers to its original inhabitants – the parrots, which played a major role from the very beginning. The park’s gates first opened in 1972 with 150 parrots, laying the foundations for what is now the largest collection of these birds in the world, numbering over 4,000. In 1986, the park hosted the first international conference for parrot conservation, which has been held regularly ever since.Over the years, Loro Parque has grown to offer visitors even more unique attractions. In 1987, the largest dolphinarium in Europe was opened, in 1999 the Planet of the Penguins section was added, and in 2006 the orcas, which are now one of the main stars of the park. In 2017, the zoo was rated the best in the world by travelers on TripAdvisor.
Stars of the Park – Dolphin and Orca Show
One of the biggest attractions of Loro Parque is undoubtedly the dolphin and orca show.
Dolphins: The show also has an educational aspect, allowing you to learn about their natural behaviour and the need to protect these marine mammals.
Dolphin show: 11am | 1pm | 4:15pm
Duration: 20 min.
Orca show: A unique experience awaits you in the neighbouring world of orcas, whose commentary show offers an exceptional opportunity to enjoy the power of these large marine mammals. Experience first-hand their ability to understand sound and light signals. In an educational presentation, you will learn about the importance of preserving and protecting this species and its natural habitat.
Orca show: 11:55am | 3:15pm
Duration: 20 min.
Other Attractions of Loro Parque
In addition to star shows, the park offers many other experiences.
You can visit, for example, the sea lion presentation. These strong and skilled swimmers will show you their high intelligence and entertain you with their tricks.
Sea lion show: 09:45am | 10:45am | 1:45pm | 2:45pm
Duration: 20 min.
Of course, you can’t leave Loro Parque without seeing the parrot show. Up close you can experience their cleverness and majestic flight. Among other things, this presentation will tell you more about their importance in the protection and care of forests.
Parrot show: 10:25am | 12:30pm | 2:30pm | 3:30pm | 4:45pm
Duration: 20 min.
Besides these unforgettable experiences, you will also find many other animals at the zoo. Discover the beauty of the coral world, walk through the shark tunnel or say hello to the penguins in the Antarctic replica. The diversity of the park will really surprise you. Among the zoo’s other inhabitants, you’ll also find gorillas, white tigers, lions and red pandas.
Animal Protection as a Priority
The main priority of the entire park is the protection of animals and their return to their natural habitat. The park’s inhabitants are given the utmost care and respect, which is reflected in the long-standing work of the Loro Parque Foundation. This organisation focuses on saving endangered species around the world and, thanks to its work, 12 species of parrot have already been saved from extinction.
Some people may have reservations about dolphin shows and similar performances by captive animals. However, it is important to remember that training and showing these animals are crucial to their physical and mental well-being. The training is done in a positive motivational way, where the animals are rewarded for their efforts, simulating their natural behaviour in the wild. These activities not only encourage their natural instincts, but also help raise public awareness of the need to protect these species and their natural habitat. As a result, people become more involved in conservation, which is crucial for the survival of these animals outside the zoo.
Design of Loro Parque
In this zoo, you will be enchanted not only by the countless species of animals, but also by the unique appearance of the whole area. The ubiquitous palm trees and the interesting architectural design of the animal enclosures will transport you to another world.
In addition, you can also visit the zoo’s themed sections, such as AquaViva, an underwater world of fluorescent jellyfish, or La Gruta, a cave representing the life of bats.
You can see what all awaits you in Loro Parque on this map:
Visiting Loro Parque With Children
The zoo also aims at young and older children. The main attraction is definitely the Kinderlandia section. Children can have fun on the suspension bridges and slides. There is also a small roller coaster with an orca theme.
Meanwhile, adults can relax and enjoy a coffee in the neighbouring restaurant.
Loro Parque Tickets
The zoo is open all year round from 9:30am to 5:30pm. To avoid the crowds, it is recommended to arrive as early as possible.
As of November 2024, admission to the park costs €42 for an adult. A reduced admission price of €30 is offered for children under 11. Children under the age of 3 are admitted free of charge.
Admission to the park can be booked online on the website https://www.loroparque.com/ticketsonline/en/paso0 . Payment is also possible at the ticket office at the entrance to the park, by credit card or cash. Ticket sellers can also be found at travel agency stands in the larger tourist centres on the island РLos Cristianos, Las Am̩ricas or Santa Cruz. In addition, on platforms like GetYourGuide or Viator, you can find offers that include not only a zoo ticket, but also a transfer from your hotel.
TIP: If you decide to also visit the Siam Park water park during your stay in Tenerife, you can buy a ”Twin Ticket” on the website of one of the parks – a ticket that is valid for entry to both attractions. This will save you €10 off the adult ticket and €7 off the children’s admission.
How to Get to Loro Parque
Loro Parque is easy to reach by car, it takes approximately 70 minutes to get here from Los Cristianos and the surrounding area, and half an hour from Santa Cruz. Paid parking is available at the zoo, which includes an underground garage. With a bit of luck, you’ll also find a free parking space in the surrounding street.
A free express yellow train runs every 20 minutes from the centre of Puerto de la Cruz, the town near which the zoo is located. It stops next to the McDonald’s in Plaza de los Reyes Católicos. You can use the train if you are staying in town, choose to park here or take a bus to Loro Parque.
There is a bus stop right by the zoo, through which line 381 runs. However, this only connects Puerto de la Cruz and the village of El Toscal. If you want to go to Loro Parque by public transport, you will first have to go to Puerta de la Cruz and from there either take line 381 or the aforementioned express train. Both depart from Plaza de los Reyes Católicos.
Buses 102 and 103 run from Santa Cruz to Puerto de la Cruz, and from the south of the island you’ll need to change to these lines in Santa Cruz first.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is Loro Parque?
Loro Parque is a unique zoo located on the outskirts of Puerto de la Cruz, Tenerife. It is one of the most visited attractions in the entire Canary Islands.
What is Loro Parque famous for?
Loro Parque is famous for its conservation and breeding of parrots. It is also the zoo with the largest dolphinarium in Europe and one of only two zoos in Europe where you can find orcas.
Where is Loro Parque?
Loro Parque is a zoo that can be found on the outskirts of Puerto de la Cruz in the northwest of Tenerife, one of the Canary Islands.
When is Loro Parque open?
Loro Parque’s opening hours are from 9:30am to 5:30pm. It is open 365 days a year.
How much is the entrance ticket to Loro Parque?
Admission to Loro Parque Zoo costs €42 for an adult and €10 for a child aged 3 to 11.
Is it necessary to buy a ticket to Loro Parque in advance?
Loro Parque tickets can be purchased online on the park’s website. Tickets can also be purchased on site at the entrance. Payment can be made in cash or by card.
Does Loro Parque offer a group discount?
Loro Parque offers a discount for groups larger than 20 people. The park does not offer family admission.
Is Loro Parque wheelchair accessible?
Loro Parque is wheelchair accessible. Wheelchair, motorized wheelchair and stroller rentals are available at the entrance for a fee.
Can dogs enter Loro Parque?
All pets are prohibited from entering the Loro Parque grounds.
Is there parking on the Loro Parque grounds?
There is paid parking and an underground garage on the park grounds. There is a parking fee of €7 per day.
Can I bring my own food to Loro Parque?
Yes, you can bring your own food and drink to Loro Parque. There are also many restaurants and cafés in the park.
Can I enter Loro Parque more than once in one day?
Yes, it is possible to re-enter Loro Parque in one day. However, you must have your ticket stamped.
