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São Paulo Zoo
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The São Paulo Zoological Garden is the largest zoo in Brazil and ranks among the most significant institutions of its kind worldwide. Opened on March 16, 1958, it is located in the Água Funda district on an 82-hectare site within the Fontes do Ipiranga State Park. The facility houses over 3,200 animals from more than 400 species, with a strong focus on the conservation of threatened Brazilian species such as lion tamarins and anteaters. The zoo maintains its own farm for animal feed production and a specialized clinic for the medical care of its inhabitants. In addition to animal enclosures, the park gives educational programs, an extensive library, and the 'Zoológico Safári' project, where visitors can observe animals from their cars. The institution plays a central role in scientific research and cooperates with numerous international conservation organizations to ensure the survival of endangered ecosystems.
- Location: Brazil
- Top sights: Casa do Sítio da Ressaca · Parque CienTec · Museu Botânico Doutor João Barbosa Rodrigues
- Nearby: São Bernardo do Campo (9 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, Aug, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 23 | 23 | 22 | 21 | 18 | 17 | 17 | 18 | 20 | 21 | 21 | 22 |
| Rain mm | 228 | 178 | 153 | 91 | 68 | 55 | 62 | 37 | 68 | 106 | 151 | 184 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
São Paulo Zoo is one of the largest zoos in Brazil and is open to the public. Visitors can enter the grounds and explore the animal enclosures and the surrounding Atlantic Forest.
Typical hours
Zoos usually open in the morning and close in the late afternoon, often from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Exact hours may vary by season; checking before a visit is recommended.
Photography
Photography is generally allowed in the zoo, but flash should be avoided to avoid disturbing the animals. Special areas like the snake house may have their own rules.
Time needed
A thorough visit to the zoo usually takes two to four hours. Families with children often spend a whole morning or afternoon there.
Combine with
The zoo is located in the Atlantic Forest, so consider visiting the nearby botanical garden or Parque do Estado. Both are within walking distance or a short drive.
Getting there
The zoo is accessible by car via Rodovia do Imigrante or by public bus. There is a large parking lot on site, and bus stops are nearby.
Insider tip
Come early in the morning when animals are most active, and avoid weekends as it can get very crowded. Wear comfortable shoes as the grounds are extensive.
Geography
Facts
- The São Paulo Zoo was officially inaugurated on March 16, 1958.
- It houses a population of over 3,200 animals within its facilities.
- The grounds encompass 82 hectares of original Atlantic Forest.
- Over 400 different animal species are represented at the zoo.
- The zoo has its own 574-hectare farm dedicated to feed production.
- It was the first zoo in Brazil to receive an environmental management certificate.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town São Paulo Zoo (17)
Parque CienTec🏛 museum
A science park of the University of São Paulo featuring a planetarium and a historical observatory.
🌐 parquecientec.usp.br🕒 Mo-Sa 09:00-16:00
Museu Botânico Doutor João Barbosa Rodrigues🏛 museum
Founded in 1942, this botanical museum houses collections dedicated to Brazilian flora within the Botanical Garden.
🌐 ibot.sp.gov.br🕒 Tu-Su 09:00-17:00
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
How large is the São Paulo Zoo?
It is one of the largest zoos in the world, with over 3000 animals on 820,000 m².
Is there a safari experience?
Yes, the adjacent Zoo Safari allows driving through with your own car or park buses.
Can you go by metro?
Yes, from Jabaquara station there is a special Orca bus directly to the zoo.
Are there endangered species there?
Yes, the zoo participates in many breeding programs for endangered Brazilian species.
Is picnicking allowed?
Yes, there are nice picnic spots throughout the park grounds.
São Paulo Zoo: where is it located?
São Paulo Zoo is located in Brazil.
São Paulo Zoo: what is there to see?
Highlights include Casa do Sítio da Ressaca, Parque CienTec, Museu Botânico Doutor João Barbosa Rodrigues.
São Paulo Zoo: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, Aug, Sep.
São Paulo Zoo: why is it worth visiting?
The São Paulo Zoological Garden is the largest zoo in Brazil and ranks among the most significant institutions of its kind worldwide.
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