Jungle Park

Nestled in the lush surroundings of Arona, Tenerife, Jungle Park stands as a testament to the island’s dedication to wildlife conservation, botanical preservation, and public education. Opened to the public in 1995, this remarkable zoological and botanical garden spans over 75,000 square metres, offering visitors the chance to immerse themselves in a unique subtropical environment. Its carefully crafted habitats house over 500 animals from more than 100 species, including exotic birds of prey, rare primates, and majestic big cats such as white lions and tigers. The park is renowned for its daily live bird shows, initiated shortly after its inauguration, which have played an integral role in raising awareness about species conservation. The extensive aviaries host a diverse collection of parrots and flamingos, echoing the island’s historical connection to aviculture, which dates back to the early 20th century when naturalists first began cataloguing Canarian flora and fauna. Jungle Park’s network of suspension bridges, caves, and waterfalls not only evokes the spirit of exploration that swept through Tenerife during the height of botanical expeditions in the 1800s, but also provides an immersive educational experience for modern-day visitors. With continuous expansions throughout the late 1990s and early 2000s, Jungle Park introduced rare lemurs and a breeding programme for endangered species in 2002, marking a significant contribution to global conservation efforts. The park’s strategic location amid the historic trade routes between Africa and Europe has influenced its collection and design, drawing species from across continents in a manner reminiscent of the zoological gardens established in Europe during the Victorian era. Today, Jungle Park is not only a prominent tourist attraction but also a centre for research and the preservation of biodiversity, upholding the legacy of Tenerife as an enclave for natural history and scientific discovery.