Experience Loro Parque: Tenerife’s Top Attraction for Wildlife and Education

Discover the Wonders of Loro Parque: Tenerife’s Premier Wildlife Park

Loro Parque is often referred to as a wildlife park or a zoo, but it is so much more! This remarkable attraction in northern Tenerife serves as a prime example of how modern zoos can significantly contribute to conservation efforts and cultural understanding. Not only is Loro Parque a place of entertainment, but it is also a vital center for research and education. The park hosts numerous educational programs for children and adults, providing valuable information about various animal and plant species. Additionally, it collaborates with universities and research institutions worldwide to promote studies in biology and conservation.

Founded in 1972 by Wolfgang Kiessling, an avid animal and nature lover, Loro Parque initially housed just 150 parrots and spanned approximately 13,000 square meters. Today, more than 50 years later, it attracts millions of visitors annually, covers ten times its original area, and is home to thousands of animals, including some of the rarest and most endangered species.

A unique aspect of Loro Parque is its strong connection with Thailand. This relationship is evident in several significant ways. The park incorporates elements of Thai culture and architecture into its design, creating an exotic and authentic atmosphere for visitors. One notable attraction is the “Thai Village,” the largest Thai village outside of Thailand. The structures in the Thai Village are built with materials brought directly from Thailand and adorned with authentic sculptures and ornaments, contributing to a spectacular and genuine environment. Furthermore, Loro Parque is committed to protecting Asian elephants, an iconic species for Thailand, and regularly hosts cultural and educational events celebrating Thai culture. These events include traditional performances, art exhibitions, and educational activities for children and adults, aimed at raising awareness about the beauty and diversity of Thai culture and promoting intercultural understanding.

In addition to Loro Parque, the same family has established Siam Park, a renowned water park in the south of the island, inaugurated with the presence of members of the Thai royal family. Together with the Botánico & The Oriental Spa Garden hotel, these attractions reflect the influence and respect for Thai traditions, offering visitors a unique cultural and recreational experience in Tenerife.

Another essential aspect visitors should know about is the Loro Parque Foundation (Loro Parque Fundación), a non-profit organization dedicated to biodiversity conservation and protecting endangered species worldwide. Established in 1994 by Loro Parque, the foundation underscores the park’s deep commitment to nature conservation and public education about environmental protection. The primary mission of the Loro Parque Foundation is to promote the conservation of species and their natural habitats. Since its inception, the foundation has funded and supported over 200 conservation projects in more than 30 countries. Through educational programs in schools, workshops, and awareness campaigns, the foundation aims to educate younger generations and the general public about the importance of biodiversity and its conservation. The foundation is a cornerstone of Loro Parque’s commitment to protecting biodiversity and endangered species, significantly contributing to environmental preservation and public awareness through its conservation projects, scientific research, education, and international collaborations.

Loro Parque operates under five principles for the well-being of animals:

1. Freedom from hunger and thirst.
2. Freedom from discomfort by providing an appropriate environment.
3. Freedom from pain, injury, or disease.
4. Freedom from fear and distress.
5. Freedom to express normal behavior.

For Visitors

Loro Parque is located in Puerto de la Cruz in the north of the island, about 40 km from the capital, Santa Cruz. There are numerous ways to get here, including public transport, a free train from the center of Puerto de la Cruz, and various agencies offering ticket and transport packages. Visitors can also drive, with ample parking available at 7 euros per day. Free Wi-Fi is available in the park, which is crowded 90% of the days. Tickets cost 42 euros for adults and 30 euros for children aged 3-11. Children under 3 years enter free. The current opening hours (June) are from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM.

Park Area

Loro Parque spans over 135,000 square meters (approximately 33 acres), providing spacious and well-maintained habitats for its diverse species of animals and plants. The park is divided into various sections, each dedicated to specific types of animals or plants, as well as themed and relaxation areas for visitors.

Capacity and Species Collection

Loro Parque is home to thousands of animals from around the world, including some of the rarest and most endangered species. The park houses over 4,000 parrots from more than 350 species and subspecies, making it the largest parrot collection in the world. Besides parrots, Loro Parque has an impressive collection of other animals, including:

• Marine mammals: dolphins, orcas, seals, and sea lions.
• Terrestrial mammals: tigers, gorillas, chimpanzees, sloths, and red pandas.
• Birds: flamingos, penguins, toucans, and many others.
• Reptiles and amphibians: iguanas, snakes, turtles, and more.
• Fish and marine invertebrates: in an impressive aquarium featuring sharks and coral reefs.

Visitor Facilities and Attractions

Loro Parque is equipped with top-notch facilities to ensure a pleasant and educational experience for visitors. These include:

• Animal shows: dolphin, orca, sea lion, and parrot shows, which are popular among visitors and offer educational insights into animal behavior and conservation.
• Gardens and exotic landscapes: beautifully landscaped relaxation areas with exotic plants, tropical gardens, and waterfalls.
• Restaurants and picnic areas: a variety of culinary options for visitors to enjoy a meal in a picturesque setting.
• Souvenir shops: where visitors can purchase themed memorabilia and products.

There are four recommended shows, each with 2-3 performances per day:

• Sea Lions
• Loro Show – parrot show
• Dolphin Show
• Orca Ocean Show *Note: Pay attention to the schedule! Shows are not scheduled at the same time, with breaks in between, but you need to move quickly to see them all.

Visitor Capacity

Loro Parque is well-equipped to accommodate a large number of visitors daily. With 38 attractions specified on the map, it offers a vast array of activities and species. On a typical day, the park can host several thousand visitors, thanks to its well-planned infrastructure and numerous facilities for their comfort. Special events and peak days may attract even more visitors, but the park is designed to ensure a pleasant and uncrowded experience even during these times.

A day spent at Loro Parque is a memorable experience that offers the chance to explore an astonishing variety of fauna and flora from around the world while gaining a deeper understanding of the conservation and educational efforts carried out in this remarkable place. From captivating dolphin and orca shows to vibrant, exotic gardens, every corner of the park tells a fascinating story about the diversity of life on Earth. Walking through the Thai Village or admiring the extensive parrot collection, visitors are introduced to a world where education and entertainment blend seamlessly. Every step along the well-maintained paths of the park brings new discoveries and encounters with amazing creatures, encouraging reflection on the importance of conservation and respect for nature. A day at Loro Parque is not just a sensory delight but also an opportunity to learn and reflect. It is a place where every visitor can indirectly contribute to protecting the natural world simply by their presence and support.

Thus, Loro Parque is not just a place of entertainment but also a source of inspiration and awareness for all who visit.