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Vesty Pakos Zoo
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The Vesty Pakos Municipal Zoological Park is located in the Mallasa district, about 12 kilometers south of central La Paz. Situated at an altitude of approximately 3,250 meters, it is one of the highest zoos in the world, specializing in the conservation of Andean fauna. The zoo was established in 1993 and is named after a prominent Bolivian animal rights activist. Unlike conventional zoos, Vesty Pakos primarily functions as a rescue center for animals recovered from poor conditions or illegal trade. The enclosures are designed to mimic the natural habitats of the Andes and the Altiplano. Among its most significant residents are the Andean condor, pumas, vicuñas, and the endangered Titicaca water frog. The park is not only a popular destination for families but also an important educational institution that informs the public about the ecological value of native wildlife. It contributes significantly to breeding programs for endangered species.
- Location: Bolivia
- Top sights: Museo Nacional de Historia Natural · Cerro Muela del Diablo · Moon Valley
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, Sep, Nov.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 9 |
| Rain mm | 136 | 114 | 79 | 35 | 13 | 9 | 16 | 22 | 24 | 48 | 44 | 107 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Vesty Pakos Zoo in La Paz is open to visitors daily. As the world's highest-altitude zoo, it showcases only native Andean animals in outdoor enclosures.
Typical hours
Opening hours vary by season, typically from morning until late afternoon. It's best to check the current hours online before your visit.
Photography
Photography of the animals is generally allowed, but without flash to avoid disturbing them. Special permits are required for commercial shoots.
Time needed
A typical visit lasts about two to three hours. Due to the high altitude, make sure to allow time for breaks.
Combine with
Combine your zoo visit with the nearby Valle de la Luna or the Laikakota viewpoint. Both are a short drive away and offer memorable landscape views.
Getting there
The zoo is located in the Vesty Pakos neighborhood of La Paz and is easily reachable by bus or taxi. From the city center, it takes about 30 minutes by car.
Insider tip
Arrive early in the morning when animals are most active. Bring warm clothing, as it can be cool even at midday at this altitude.
Geography
Facts
- The zoo was officially opened on September 21, 1993.
- The grounds cover an area of approximately 22 hectares.
- It houses more than 500 animals from around 70 different species.
- The zoo is situated in a valley featuring bizarre geological formations.
- Vesty Pakos is a member of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums.
- The Andean condor is the park's emblem and most significant resident.
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Notable places around
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Sights in the town Vesty Pakos Zoo (16)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where is Zoo Vesty Pakos located?
In the Mallasa neighborhood, in the south of La Paz.
What is special about this zoo?
It focuses on the rehabilitation of native Andean and Amazonian animals.
What are the opening hours?
Usually Tuesday to Sunday, 09:00 to 17:00; closed on Mondays.
How do you get there from La Paz?
By minibus towards Mallasa or by taxi.
Is the zoo wheelchair accessible?
Partially; many paths are paved, but there are some steep sections.
Vesty Pakos Zoo: where is it located?
Vesty Pakos Zoo is located in Bolivia.
Vesty Pakos Zoo: what is there to see?
Highlights include Museo Nacional de Historia Natural, Cerro Muela del Diablo, Moon Valley.
Vesty Pakos Zoo: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, Sep, Nov.
Vesty Pakos Zoo: why is it worth visiting?
The Vesty Pakos Municipal Zoological Park is located in the Mallasa district, about 12 kilometers south of central La Paz.
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History & landmarks
Puente Trillizos
A set of three modern cable-stayed bridges in La Paz that connect different parts of the rugged city.
Puente de las Américas
A prominent bridge in La Paz that spans deep ravines and connects the Miraflores and Sopocachi neighborhoods.
Estadio Hernando Siles
One of the highest professional football stadiums in the world, where the Bolivian national team plays its home matches.
Monumento a Eduardo Abaroa
A monument on the plaza of the same name in La Paz, dedicated to the Bolivian national hero Eduardo Abaroa from the War of the Pacific.
Mirador Laikakota
A popular park and viewpoint in the Parque Urbano Central, offering excellent views of the low-lying part of La Paz.
Mirador Killi Killi
A strategically located viewpoint on a hill that offers a breathtaking 360-degree view of La Paz and Mount Illimani.
Plaza Murillo
The central square of La Paz and the historical heart of Bolivian politics and government.
Catedral de Nuestra Señora de la Paz
The neoclassical cathedral on Plaza Murillo impresses with its steep stairs and magnificent dome.
Nature
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Valley of the Souls
A fascinating geological site near La Paz with towering, needle-like rock formations that attract young explorers.
Cathedral of La Paz
An imposing neoclassical cathedral on the Plaza Murillo, whose construction spanned more than a century.
Palacio Quemado
The historic presidential residence in La Paz, named after a fire during an 1875 uprising.
Basilica of San Francisco
A monumental Catholic church in the heart of La Paz, known for its richly decorated stone facade in the Andean Baroque style.
Chacaltaya
Chacaltaya was once the highest ski resort in the world before its glacier completely melted in 2009.
Huayna Potosí
Stunning pyramid-shaped mountain near La Paz, popular as an accessible 6,000-meter climb.
Zongo Valley
The Zongo Valley is a steep gorge near La Paz, known for its hydroelectric facilities and breathtaking cloud forests.
Cordillera Real
Spectacular glaciated mountain range that separates the Altiplano from the Amazon basin.