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El Pantanal Zoo
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The El Pantanal Zoo is located just 15 minutes from downtown Guayaquil and serves as a vital center for wildlife rescue and conservation on the Ecuadorian coast. Established in 1994, the facility grew from a private collection into a professional zoological and educational park. It currently houses over 100 different animal species, including both native Ecuadorian fauna and exotic animals from around the world. Highlights include Siberian tigers, African lions, and local icons like the spectacled bear, coastal crocodiles, and the Great Green Macaw. El Pantanal plays a crucial role as a rescue station for animals confiscated from illegal trade or injured due to habitat loss. Guided tours focus on conservation facts and the urgent need to protect tropical ecosystems. The zoo is surrounded by lush coastal vegetation, providing a green oasis on the outskirts of the bustling metropolis of Guayaquil.
- Location: Ecuador
- Top sights: Cerro de Candelaria · Casa de Jenny · Campanario - Metropolis II
- Nearby: Daule (4 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Sep–Nov.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 28 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 27 | 27 | 28 |
| Rain mm | 123 | 215 | 212 | 126 | 38 | 10 | 3 | 3 | 2 | 6 | 8 | 24 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
El Pantanal Zoo near Guayaquil is open to visitors and specializes in tropical fauna conservation. The enclosures are naturalistic and host many native species.
Typical hours
Hours are typically 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, seven days a week. On holidays, the zoo may be closed or have reduced hours.
Photography
Photography is generally allowed, but handlers ask for consideration of the animals. Avoid flash as it may startle them.
Time needed
A visit takes about two to three hours. The zoo is compact, but the extensive information about the animals warrants a longer stay.
Combine with
Combine the visit with nearby Guayaquil, particularly the Malecon 2000 and the historic Las Peñas neighborhood. Both are a short drive away.
Getting there
The zoo is about 30 minutes south of Guayaquil, reachable by car or taxi. Public buses go nearby, but a taxi is more convenient.
Insider tip
Visit in the morning when animals are most active after feeding. Bring insect repellent, as the tropical environment has many mosquitoes.
Geography
Facts
- The zoo was officially opened to the public in 1994.
- It is home to more than 100 different animal species.
- The facility is located approximately 12 km from Guayaquil's center.
- It serves as a primary rescue center for animals in the coastal region.
- Residents include exotic predators like Siberian tigers and African lions.
- Educational guided tours are a mandatory part of the visitor experience.
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Sights in the town El Pantanal Zoo (10)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the concept of El Pantanal?
It is a rescue center for injured or confiscated wildlife from the coastal region.
Are there big cats?
Yes, you can see jaguars, pumas, and even African lions from a close distance.
How much time is needed for the tour?
The guided tour takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.
Is there parking available?
Yes, free parking is available right in front of the zoo entrance.
When is the zoo open?
Usually daily from 09:00 to 17:00. Last entry is at 16:00.
El Pantanal Zoo: where is it located?
El Pantanal Zoo is located in Ecuador.
El Pantanal Zoo: what is there to see?
Highlights include Cerro de Candelaria, Casa de Jenny, Campanario - Metropolis II.
El Pantanal Zoo: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Sep, Nov.
El Pantanal Zoo: why is it worth visiting?
The El Pantanal Zoo is located just 15 minutes from downtown Guayaquil and serves as a vital center for wildlife rescue and conservation on the Ecuadorian coast.
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Nearby cities
Guayaquil
The largest city in Ecuador and the main economic center on the Pacific coast.
Durán
An industrial city connected to Guayaquil by a bridge over the Guayas River.
Daule
Known as the rice capital of Ecuador due to the enormous production of this grain.
Milagro
The sweetest city in Ecuador, named after its extensive sugarcane production.
Velasco Ibarra
Commonly known as El Empalme, it is a strategic transport hub between three provinces.
Balzar
Center of cattle breeding and teak production in rural Guayas.
Naranjito
A lively small town characterized by extensive banana and cocoa fields.
Naranjal
The starting point for excursions to indigenous communities and the hot springs of Churute.
General Villamil Playas
A very popular beach destination that flourishes due to its proximity to Guayaquil.
Yaguachi
An important religious pilgrimage site for the veneration of San Jacinto in Ecuador.
Samborondón
A wealthy suburban community known for its exclusive residential complexes and historic rice fields.
History & landmarks
Monumental Stadium
The largest football stadium in Ecuador and home to the famous Barcelona Sporting Club in Guayaquil.
George Capwell Stadium
Home of the Emelec football club, known for its steep English-style stands and electrifying atmosphere.
Metropolitan Cathedral of Guayaquil
A neo-Gothic cathedral facing Iguana Park, characterized by its impressive twin towers.
Gazebo of Seminario Park
An ornate wrought-iron gazebo in Guayaquil's Iguana Park, serving as an elegant focal point of the square.
Crystal Palace
A striking iron and glass building in Guayaquil that once served as a market and now hosts art exhibitions.
Malecón 2000
A famous boardwalk along the Guayas River, showcasing both the modern and historical faces of Guayaquil.
La Perla Ferris Wheel
A massive Ferris wheel on the Malecón 2000 offering spectacular views over the Guayas River and Guayaquil.
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MAAC Museum
The anthropological and contemporary art museum of Guayaquil, known for its sail-like architectural design.
Nature
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Holcim Cement Plant Guayaquil
A large cement production facility on the outskirts of Guayaquil, serving the coastal market and export routes.
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Cerro Blanco Protected Forest
One of the best preserved dry forest areas near Guayaquil, where monkeys and wildcats live.
Pilsener Brewery Guayaquil
The main production facility for Pilsener, the best-selling beer brand in Ecuador.
La Universal Confectionery
A traditional Ecuadorian brand that produces chocolate and confectionery, deeply rooted in the country's cocoa history.
Monumento a Guayas y Quil
A monument in Guayaquil honoring the indigenous chief Guayas and his wife Quil, after whom the city is said to be named.
Torre del Reloj
The Moorish Clock Tower is one of the most famous historical buildings along the Malecón in Guayaquil.
La Rotonda
A significant monument commemorating the meeting between Simón Bolívar and José de San Martín in Guayaquil.
Fortín de la Planchada
An old colonial fort in Guayaquil built to defend against pirate attacks.