This zoo in Barcelona’s central park houses about 4000 animals, from pygmy hippos to bottlenose dolphins.
Barcelona Zoo attracts hundreds of visitors on a sunny day. The 13-hectare (32-acre) zoo lies in the central Parc de la Ciutadella, the city’s “green lung.” The zoo features about 4000 animals from 400 species that are kept in natural habitats. See komodo dragons, silverback gorillas and everyday farm animals.
A wealthy banker gifted his collection of exotic animals to the Barcelona government in 1892. The zoo slowly expanded and its main aim became conservation of both native and endangered animals.
One of the most famous examples was Snowflake, the first recorded albino gorilla. Snowflake died in 2003, but an exhibit about his life is a popular addition to the gorilla enclosure. Read about the work of conservationists and scientists such as Dian Fossey in protecting gorillas. There are two other primate enclosures housing primates, including the South American Titi Monkey, the smallest primate in the world.
Join hordes of onlookers at the dolphin show, which runs three times a day. Ogle large pygmy hippos, African elephants and pink flamingos.
Make a stop at The Farm enclosure, which includes farm animals and a petting zoo. Children can pay extra for a pony ride.
You’ll need at least two hours to see the zoo’s main attractions. Take the whole day to see everything.
Navigate the zoo on the miniature train, which makes regular stops. Ask for a timetable and map at the ticket booth on your way in. Small electric cars are available for hire.
The zoo is open every day. Closing times vary depending on the time of year.. Parc de la Ciutadella is a 20-minute walk from Las Ramblas, or a short ride by metro, bus or tram.
