Botanical and Zoological Gardens
Places to Visit
At 45 acres the Zoo is relatively small, all exhibits can be comfortably seen in about 2 hours so plan accordingly.
The Mayagüez Zoo located in the Porta del Sol Region of Puerto Rico is the island only zoo and has been in operation since 1954. Formally known as the "Zoológico de Puerto Rico Dr. Juan A. Rivero" this facility houses many species of animals including Elephants, Tigers, Lions, Hippopotamus, Raptors etc.
Some of the more interesting exhibits are the Aviary where exotic birds fly overhead and land on branches and perches so close that you can almost reach out and touch them. Also of interest is the Butterfly House where hundreds of butterfly flutter around many beautiful flowers and a wonderful waterfall. Both the Aviary and Butterfly House keep hours separate from the general zoo hours so ask one of the helpful guides for more information.
The admission fee to the zoo includes an electronic audio guide that allows you to listen to information about the animals at several of the exhibits.
At 45 acres the Zoo is relatively small which allows you to visit all exhibits in about 2 hours. Also, some of the larger mammal exhibits appear to be very confining for the inhabitant. And there is only one elephant which is strange because these magnificent creatures are very social and thrive in groups.
When visiting Mayagüez a stop at this zoo would be a great activity for families and a chance for children and adults alike to get up close and personal with many exotic animals.
Admission Fees:
Children under 4 are free
Children 5 - 11 years old: $8.00 (Including Audio Tour)
Adults 12 - 59 years old: $13.00 (Including Audio Tour)
Seniors 60 - 74 years old: $6.50 (Including Audio Tour)
Seniors 75+ years: Free
Parking Fees:
Motorcycles: $2.00
Autos: $3.00
Mini Vans: $4.00
Busses: $5.00
The parks Gazebo is available for rent (100 person maximum) $75.00
Indoor Air-conditioned Salon available (80 person maximum) $150.00