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Havana Zoo (July 26)

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Animal habitat
—°3
Havana Zoo (July 26) (Cuba)

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The Havana Zoological Garden, popularly known as the Zoologico de 26 due to its location on 26th Avenue in the Nuevo Vedado district, is the oldest zoo in Cuba. It was officially opened in 1939 and is celebrated for its distinctive Art Deco entrance, designed by the renowned architect Max Borges Jr., which has become a city landmark. Spanning roughly 23 hectares, the zoo houses a diverse collection of both native and exotic animals, including lions, tigers, hippos, and a wide array of tropical birds. The park's layout emphasizes a park-like atmosphere with mature trees and shaded walkways, providing a refreshing green space within the urban landscape of Havana. Throughout its history, it has played a vital role in environmental education and the conservation of endangered species within the Caribbean. While the larger National Zoo was later built on the outskirts of the city, the original Havana Zoo remains a beloved destination for families and tourists alike, offering a historic and accessible glimpse into global biodiversity.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C222425272829292928272524
Rain mm302923336410883108102874530

📋 Practical info

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Best season
The Havana Zoo can be visited comfortably year-round, though the drier months from November to April typically offer more pleasant walking conditions and slightly more active animals compared to the humid summer.
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Best time of day
Mornings are generally the best time to explore the city zoo, as temperatures are cooler and animals tend to be more energetic before seeking shade to escape the midday Caribbean heat.
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Etiquette
Visitors are expected to respect the enclosures by keeping a safe distance, refraining from tapping on glass or fences, and strictly avoiding feeding the animals unauthorized food to protect their health.
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What to bring
Comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended for navigating the zoo paths, along with sun protection such as a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated during your visit.
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Getting there
The zoo is located within the city limits of Havana and can typically be reached easily via local taxis, public transportation routes, or organized city tours that include family-friendly local attractions.
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What to expect
While zoo settings ensure you will see animals, you should still maintain realistic expectations; some creatures may be sleeping or hiding in their enclosures, so take your time to observe quietly at each stop.

Geography

Coordinates
23.12000, -82.39000

Facts

  • Opened in 1939 as the very first zoological park in Cuba.
  • The iconic Art Deco entrance was designed by architect Max Borges Jr.
  • The facility covers approximately 23 hectares in central Havana.
  • Home to a wide variety of species including big cats and primates.
  • Located on 26th Avenue, which gives the zoo its popular nickname.
  • Serves as a key site for environmental research and local education.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Plaza de la RevoluciónPlaza de la Revolución<1 km · NExplore →
Almendares RiverAlmendares River1 km · SExplore →
HavanaHavana3 km · NExplore →
Havana Club Rum MuseumHavana Club Rum Museum4 km · NExplore →
Santiago de las VegasSantiago de las Vegas5 km · NWExplore →
Havana Steel PlantHavana Steel Plant7 km · SExplore →
National Aquarium of CubaNational Aquarium of Cuba9 km · SExplore →
Hemingway HouseHemingway House10 km · NExplore →

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 Havana Zoo (July 26) (3)

José Martí Memorial📍 landmark

The José Martí Memorial on Havana's Plaza de la Revolución is a monument to the Cuban national hero. It includes a tower and a statue.

Plaza de la Revolución📍 landmark

Plaza de la Revolución in Havana is a large square featuring the José Martí Memorial. It is surrounded by government buildings.

National Theatre of Cuba📍 landmark

The National Theatre of Cuba in Havana, near Plaza de la Revolución, hosts theater and music performances. It has multiple halls.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Where is the Havana Zoo on 26th Street located?
It is located in the Nuevo Vedado district on Avenida 26.
How does it differ from the National Zoo?
This zoo is older, smaller, and more traditional with cages, but more centrally located.
What animals can you see here?
Lions, tigers, monkeys, crocodiles, and a variety of tropical birds.
Are there play areas for children?
Yes, there are small playgrounds and pony rides, making it a magnet for local families.
How much is the entrance fee for foreigners?
The price is low (often 2-3 USD), but it's usually charged separately from the local rate.
Havana Zoo (July 26): where is it located?
Havana Zoo (July 26) is located in Cuba.
Havana Zoo (July 26): what is there to see?
Highlights include José Martí Memorial, Plaza de la Revolución, National Theatre of Cuba.
Havana Zoo (July 26): when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Havana Zoo (July 26): why is it worth visiting?
The Havana Zoological Garden, popularly known as the Zoologico de 26 due to its location on 26th Avenue in the Nuevo Vedado district, is the oldest zoo in Cuba.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
North America
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Nearby cities

Victoria de Las Tunas — Havana Zoo (July 26) (Cuba)
Victoria de Las Tunas
The capital of Las Tunas province, known as the 'Balcony of the East' and the 'Capital of Cuban Sculpture'.
Puerto Padre — Havana Zoo (July 26) (Cuba)
Puerto Padre
A port city on the north coast of Las Tunas province with a large sugar mill.
Jobabo — Havana Zoo (July 26) (Cuba)
Jobabo
A city and municipality in the province of Las Tunas, which is an important center for sugar production.
Amancio — Havana Zoo (July 26) (Cuba)
Amancio
A municipality in the south of Las Tunas province, whose main industry is sugar production.
Colombia — Havana Zoo (July 26) (Cuba)
Colombia
A city and municipality in the province of Las Tunas.
🗺️
Playa Covarrubias
A tranquil, secluded beach resort in Las Tunas, Cuba, boasting a magnificent coral reef and crystal-clear waters.

History & landmarks

Plaza Mayor in Trinidad — Havana Zoo (July 26) (Cuba)
Plaza Mayor in Trinidad
The heart of colonial Trinidad, surrounded by imposing mansions.

More places

Kike Acosta Park — Havana Zoo (July 26) (Cuba)
Kike Acosta Park
A neighborhood park used for everyday recreation and local gatherings.
Lenin Park — Havana Zoo (July 26) (Cuba)
Lenin Park
A vast recreational park in Havana with playgrounds and a small train.
Havana Children&#39;s Park — Havana Zoo (July 26) (Cuba)
Havana Children's Park
A children's park designed for play, rest, and simple outdoor recreation.
National Zoo of Cuba — Havana Zoo (July 26) (Cuba)
National Zoo of Cuba
A spacious zoo in Havana featuring open-air enclosures for many African animals.
National Aquarium of Cuba — Havana Zoo (July 26) (Cuba)
National Aquarium of Cuba
A popular aquarium in Havana featuring dolphin shows and marine biology exhibits.
Finca Vigía Gardens — Havana Zoo (July 26) (Cuba)
Finca Vigía Gardens
The former Finca Vigia estate near Havana, closely linked to Ernest Hemingway's life in Cuba.
Sierra del Rosario Mountains — Havana Zoo (July 26) (Cuba)
Sierra del Rosario Mountains
A major mountain range in western Cuba, known for its biodiversity.
Cave of the Indian — Havana Zoo (July 26) (Cuba)
Cave of the Indian
A limestone cave in Vinales with an underground river and indigenous history.