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Emperor Valley Zoo

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Emperor Valley Zoo (Trinidad and Tobago)

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The Emperor Valley Zoo in Port of Spain is the largest zoological facility in Trinidad and Tobago, having officially opened its gates in 1952. It is situated adjacent to the Royal Botanic Gardens and Queen's Park Savannah at the foothills of the Northern Range. The zoo derives its name from the brilliant blue Emperor Butterfly, which was once abundant in the valley where the park now stands. The collection features a blend of indigenous species, such as ocelots, howler monkeys, and caimans, alongside exotic animals including lions, giraffes, and zebras. A significant focus is placed on the conservation and captive breeding of local endangered wildlife, such as the leatherback turtle. Recent modernization efforts have improved animal enclosures and expanded educational outreach to foster a greater public understanding of biodiversity. Serving as a key educational destination, the zoo hosts thousands of students and tourists annually. It remains a central institution in regional efforts to preserve the unique fauna of the Caribbean basin.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Feb–Apr.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C262627282827272727272726
Rain mm100615256117222202202141176213178

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
Emperor Valley Zoo is open daily for visitors. You can explore both indoor and outdoor areas. There is a variety of animals from the Caribbean and other regions.
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Typical hours
The zoo typically opens at 9:00 am and closes around 5:00 pm. Last entry is usually one hour before closing. Hours may vary on holidays.
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Photography
Photography is allowed throughout the zoo. Flash may startle animals; use it sparingly. In some animal houses, flash photography is prohibited.
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Time needed
Allow about 2 to 3 hours for a relaxed visit. With feeding times and shows, the stay can be longer.
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Combine with
Combine the zoo visit with the adjacent Botanical Garden. The National Museum is also nearby. A stroll through Queen's Park Savannah is recommended.
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Getting there
The zoo is located in Port of Spain, near Queen's Park Savannah. Easily reached by taxi or bus. Parking is limited.
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Insider tip
Visit the zoo in the morning when animals are most active. Check ahead for feeding times to catch the best moments.

Geography

Coordinates
10.66500, -61.52000

Facts

  • The zoo was officially opened to the public on November 8, 1952.
  • The name is derived from the Blue Emperor butterfly (Morpho peleides).
  • The zoo houses over 2,000 animals representing more than 200 species.
  • It borders the Royal Botanic Gardens, which were established in 1818.
  • A modern giraffe enclosure was opened as part of a 2013 expansion project.
  • The facility actively participates in conservation programs for the West Indian manatee.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Port of Spain CitadelPort of Spain Citadel<1 km · EExplore →
Old Port OfficeOld Port Office1 km · NWExplore →
Fort GeorgeFort George2 km · SEExplore →
MaravalMaraval3 km · EExplore →
LaventilleLaventille3 km · NExplore →
Paria Coast CliffsParia Coast Cliffs5 km · NEExplore →
WestmooringsWestmoorings5 km · SExplore →
BaratariaBarataria5 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 Emperor Valley Zoo (3)

Embassy of the United States, Port of Spain📍 landmark

The United States Embassy in Port of Spain is located in the St Clair neighborhood.

Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Port of Spain📍 landmark

The Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Port of Spain is based at the city's cathedral.

Port of Spain📍 landmark

Port of Spain is the capital city of Trinidad and Tobago, on the northwest coast.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Is the zoo good for young children?
Yes, there are many regional animals and the paths are easy to navigate.
How long does a full tour take?
Plan for about 2 to 3 hours for a relaxed visit.
Are there food options at the zoo?
Yes, there are snack bars and picnic areas.
Is the zoo wheelchair accessible?
Largely yes, although some paths can be slippery when it rains.
What is the best time to visit?
In the morning, when animals are more active in cooler temperatures.
Emperor Valley Zoo: where is it located?
Emperor Valley Zoo is located in Trinidad and Tobago.
Emperor Valley Zoo: what is there to see?
Highlights include Embassy of the United States, Port of Spain, Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Port of Spain, Port of Spain.
Emperor Valley Zoo: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Apr.
Emperor Valley Zoo: why is it worth visiting?
The Emperor Valley Zoo in Port of Spain is the largest zoological facility in Trinidad and Tobago, having officially opened its gates in 1952.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →

Nearby cities

Belmont — Emperor Valley Zoo (Trinidad and Tobago)
Belmont
A historic suburb of Port of Spain, known as the birthplace of many important figures.
Woodbrook — Emperor Valley Zoo (Trinidad and Tobago)
Woodbrook
A neighborhood in Port of Spain known for its many restaurants, bars, and nightlife.
St. James — Emperor Valley Zoo (Trinidad and Tobago)
St. James
A vibrant district of Port of Spain, known as 'the city that never sleeps'.
Maraval — Emperor Valley Zoo (Trinidad and Tobago)
Maraval
A large valley and residential area on the outskirts of Port of Spain.
Laventille — Emperor Valley Zoo (Trinidad and Tobago)
Laventille
A large community east of Port of Spain, known as the birthplace of the steelpan.
Westmoorings — Emperor Valley Zoo (Trinidad and Tobago)
Westmoorings
One of the most affluent residential areas in Trinidad and Tobago.
Barataria — Emperor Valley Zoo (Trinidad and Tobago)
Barataria
A residential and commercial district in the San Juan-Laventille region.
San Juan — Emperor Valley Zoo (Trinidad and Tobago)
San Juan
A major transport hub and commercial center in the San Juan–Laventille region.
Carenage — Emperor Valley Zoo (Trinidad and Tobago)
Carenage
A historic fishing village along the coast west of Port of Spain.
Curepe — Emperor Valley Zoo (Trinidad and Tobago)
Curepe
A busy town known as a major junction for public transportation.
St. Joseph — Emperor Valley Zoo (Trinidad and Tobago)
St. Joseph
The first capital of Trinidad under Spanish rule, rich in colonial history.
Maracas Valley — Emperor Valley Zoo (Trinidad and Tobago)
Maracas Valley
A lush valley in the Northern Range that leads to the famous Maracas Bay.
Chaguanas — Emperor Valley Zoo (Trinidad and Tobago)
Chaguanas
The largest municipality of Trinidad, known for its vibrant markets.
Gasparee — Emperor Valley Zoo (Trinidad and Tobago)
Gasparee
Fascinating limestone caves on Gaspar Grande island, featuring a shimmering underground lake.
Las Cuevas Bay — Emperor Valley Zoo (Trinidad and Tobago)
Las Cuevas Bay
A serene, Blue Flag certified beach known for its calm waters and small caves tucked into the surrounding cliffs.

History & landmarks

Maracas Beach — Emperor Valley Zoo (Trinidad and Tobago)
Maracas Beach
A famous sandy beach in Trinidad.
Hanuman Statue — Emperor Valley Zoo (Trinidad and Tobago)
Hanuman Statue
A massive statue of the Hindu deity Hanuman located in Carapichaima.
Bocas Islands — Emperor Valley Zoo (Trinidad and Tobago)
Bocas Islands
An archipelago off the coast of Trinidad.

Nature

Caroni River — Emperor Valley Zoo (Trinidad and Tobago)
Caroni River
The largest river in Trinidad, emptying into the Caroni Swamp.
Caparo River — Emperor Valley Zoo (Trinidad and Tobago)
Caparo River
A significant river in central Trinidad, flowing into the Gulf of Paria.

More places

Queen&#39;s Park Savannah — Emperor Valley Zoo (Trinidad and Tobago)
Queen's Park Savannah
The largest open space in Port of Spain.
Port of Spain Port — Emperor Valley Zoo (Trinidad and Tobago)
Port of Spain Port
The nation's main port for container handling and general cargo.
Port of Spain Citadel — Emperor Valley Zoo (Trinidad and Tobago)
Port of Spain Citadel
Former defensive citadel of the city.
Old Port Office — Emperor Valley Zoo (Trinidad and Tobago)
Old Port Office
Historic administration building at the harbor.
Fort George — Emperor Valley Zoo (Trinidad and Tobago)
Fort George
A historic fort offering panoramic views of Port of Spain.
Paria Coast Cliffs — Emperor Valley Zoo (Trinidad and Tobago)
Paria Coast Cliffs
Steep cliffs along the north coast.
Saut d&#39;Eau Island — Emperor Valley Zoo (Trinidad and Tobago)
Saut d'Eau Island
A small wooded island that protects seabirds.
Chaguaramas Port — Emperor Valley Zoo (Trinidad and Tobago)
Chaguaramas Port
A versatile port focused on boat building, repairs, and maritime industry.