Plizio Visual Lab
Zoo-Botanical Foundation of Belo Horizonte
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
kid-landmark
The Zoo-Botanical Foundation of Belo Horizonte is one of the most significant environmental and recreational sites in the state of Minas Gerais. Opened in 1959, the complex now spans an impressive area of approximately 1.7 million square meters. It features an extensive Zoological Garden home to over 3,000 animals from more than 250 species, including rare Brazilian fauna such as the maned wolf and the jaguar. The integrated Botanical Garden serves as a research hub for the conservation of regional flora and features striking themed areas like the popular Japanese Garden. For families, the park is a good destination, blending environmental education programs with vast green spaces for picnics and walks. A major highlight is the São Francisco River Aquarium, the largest freshwater aquarium in Brazil, which showcases the aquatic life of the region's most important river. The institution plays a vital role in species conservation and provides city dwellers with a valuable space for nature exploration and relaxation.
- Location: Brazil
- Top sights: Jardim Zoológico · Torre do Teleférico Itaú · Torre do Teleférico das Caçambas
- Nearby: Contagem (10 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 22 | 21 | 21 | 20 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 19 | 21 | 22 | 22 | 22 |
| Rain mm | 223 | 132 | 153 | 53 | 27 | 11 | 7 | 18 | 42 | 88 | 190 | 266 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Zoo-Botanical Foundation of Belo Horizonte is a vast park that can be explored on foot. Both the zoo and botanical sections are accessible, as well as the Japanese thematic area.
Typical hours
The park is typically open Tuesday to Sunday from 9 am to 5 pm. It is usually closed on Mondays, holidays may vary.
Photography
Photography is allowed throughout the park; commercial shoots require a permit. The Japanese gardens with their ponds and bridges are especially pleasant.
Time needed
Allow at least three to four hours for the entire park. If you want to thoroughly visit the animal enclosures, greenhouses, and Japanese Garden, plan half a day.
Combine with
Combine the park with the nearby Palácio da Liberdade or the Museum of Arts and Crafts. São José Church and the Municipal Park are also close.
Getting there
The park is located in the Pampulha district of Belo Horizonte, about 10 km from the center. It is well reached by bus or taxi, and parking is available.
Insider tip
Visit the park on weekdays to avoid crowds. Wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water, especially in hot weather.
Geography
Facts
- The foundation was officially opened to the public on January 25, 1959.
- The park covers a total area of approximately 175 hectares (1.7 million sqm).
- It houses Brazil's largest freshwater aquarium, dedicated to the São Francisco River.
- The Japanese Garden within the complex was inaugurated in 2008.
- More than 250 different animal species are cared for within the zoo.
- Conducts specialized breeding programs for the endangered maned wolf.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Zoo-Botanical Foundation of Belo Horizonte (4)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is there to see at the Belo Horizonte Zoo?
Over 3000 animals from 250 species, as well as a large botanical garden.
Is there an aquarium in the park?
Yes, it houses Brazil's largest freshwater aquarium with fish from the Rio São Francisco.
Are pets allowed?
No, for the protection of the zoo residents, private pets are not allowed.
What are the opening hours?
Usually from Tuesday to Sunday, approximately from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Are there picnic areas?
Yes, there are designated areas for family picnics in the green spaces.
Zoo-Botanical Foundation of Belo Horizonte: where is it located?
Zoo-Botanical Foundation of Belo Horizonte is located in Brazil.
Zoo-Botanical Foundation of Belo Horizonte: what is there to see?
Highlights include Jardim Zoológico, Torre do Teleférico Itaú, Torre do Teleférico das Caçambas.
Zoo-Botanical Foundation of Belo Horizonte: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Zoo-Botanical Foundation of Belo Horizonte: why is it worth visiting?
The Zoo-Botanical Foundation of Belo Horizonte is one of the most significant environmental and recreational sites in the state of Minas Gerais.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in South America
More places in Brazil →
Nearby cities
Belo Horizonte
The capital of Minas Gerais, surrounded by mountains and famous for its traditional bars (Botecos).
Contagem
A highly industrialized city directly adjacent to Belo Horizonte and an important economic engine of the state.
Juiz de Fora
An important industrial and university city in southeastern Minas Gerais with strong historical ties to Rio de Janeiro.
Uberlândia
The most important city in the so-called Triângulo Mineiro, known as a strong location for agribusiness and logistics.
Caxambu
Caxambu is a traditional spa town famous for its therapeutic mineral water springs and grand 19th-century architecture.
Sao Thome das Letras
São Thomé das Letras is a mountain town in Minas Gerais built almost entirely from local quartzite stone.
Betim
A highly industrialized city next to Belo Horizonte, where some of the largest factories in Brazil are located.
Montes Claros
The largest city in northern Minas Gerais, an important regional center connecting the south and northeast of Brazil.
History & landmarks
More places
Betim Automotive Plant
One of the largest automotive manufacturing plants in the world, playing a crucial role in Brazil's industrial sector.
Sabará
A historic city near Belo Horizonte, known for its Baroque heritage and the Jabuticaba festival.
Sanctuary of Congonhas
The Sanctuary of Congonhas is a major pilgrimage site in Minas Gerais and one of Brazil's best-known Baroque ensembles.
Ouro Branco Steelworks
A massive steel manufacturing complex operated by Gerdau, strategically placed near abundant mineral resources.
Ouro Preto
A well-preserved colonial town that was the center of the Brazilian gold rush in the 18th century.
Mariana
The oldest city in the state of Minas Gerais, rich in Baroque architecture and history.
Itabira Iron Ore Mine
The birthplace of Vale company, this historic mining area is central to iron ore extraction in Minas Gerais.
Tiradentes
Tiradentes is a well-preserved colonial town in Minas Gerais named after Brazil's national independence hero.