Spanning 125 hectares in Santo Domingo's Arroyo Hondo district, the National Zoological Park houses African lions, Bengal tigers, and Caribbean species rarely seen elsewhere.

Welcome to one of Latin America's most expansive zoological institutions, where the Caribbean meets wildlife from across the globe.

Since opening its gates in 1975, this sprawling green sanctuary has offered Dominican families and international visitors alike the chance to encounter over 130 species, from the endemic Hispaniolan parrot to majestic African elephants.

The park stretches across rolling terrain that provides sweeping views of the Ozama River, creating a natural setting that goes far beyond the cramped quarters of traditional zoos.

From Vision to Reality

In 1972, architects Manuel Valverde Podestá and Eugenio Pérez Montás began transforming an outdated zoo into something the nation could be proud of. The first animals arrived in November 1974, including rhesus monkeys, spider monkeys, pumas, and parrots relocated from the old facility.

By January 3, 1975, Law 114 officially established the park as a center for education, research, and biological sciences. When it opened to the public on July 5, 1975, it represented a new chapter in Dominican conservation efforts. The park was later renamed in 1988 to honor architect Valverde Podestá, whose vision shaped this living museum.

A World of Wildlife

The zoo's collection spans continents and ecosystems. African species like spotted hyenas, white rhinoceros, and marabou storks share space with Asian elephants and Burmese pythons. South American jaguars and llamas represent the continent, while North American bison and black bears complete the Americas collection.

The Caribbean collection shines brightest here. The Hispaniolan parrot's vibrant plumage catches your eye, while the rare Ricord's iguana represents critical conservation work. The zoo houses the Hispaniolan boa and palmchat, species found nowhere else on Earth. With over 130 plant species creating natural habitats, each exhibit attempts to mirror the animals' native environments.

Conservation in Action

The National Zoological Park operates under the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, making conservation and education its core mission. The facility runs educational programs focused on environmental awareness and protecting both endemic and introduced species through international partnerships with institutions in Africa and the United States.

A dedicated children's zoo helps young visitors connect with gentler species like pygmy goats and ponies. The serpentarium offers close encounters with reptiles, while the zipline provides an aerial perspective of the expansive grounds. A train service carries visitors through the 125-hectare property, and daily bird shows demonstrate natural behaviors of macaws, cockatoos, and other avian residents.

National Zoological Park Highlights & Tips

• Endemic Caribbean Species Don't miss the Hispaniolan parrot, palmchat, and Ricord's iguana in the Caribbean collection, showcasing wildlife found only on this island.
• African Giants The African exhibits feature impressive megafauna including white rhinoceros, Asian elephants, and spotted hyenas.
• Serpentarium This specialized reptile house displays Burmese pythons, American crocodiles, and the native Hispaniolan boa.
• Take the Train The zoo spans 125 hectares, so use the train service to cover ground efficiently and save energy for exploring exhibits.
• Plan for the Bird Show Schedule your visit around the daily bird show to see macaws, cockatoos, and other species demonstrate natural behaviors.
• Visit the Children's Zoo Families with young children should explore the interactive children's zoo area with smaller, approachable animals.
• Location and Views The zoo is located in Arroyo Hondo on Avenida La Vega Real, offering scenic views toward the Ozama River from various points in the park.
• Zipline Adventure For an adrenaline rush, try the zipline course that offers a unique bird's-eye perspective of the zoo's landscape.

The National Zoological Park Arq. Manuel Valverde Podestá stands as more than a collection of animals. It represents nearly five decades of Dominican commitment to conservation, education, and connecting people with the natural world.

Whether you're watching Hispaniolan parrots preen their emerald feathers or observing the lumbering grace of an Asian elephant, you're experiencing the vision that architects Valverde Podestá and Pérez Montás brought to life in 1975.

This green oasis in Santo Domingo continues fulfilling its founding mission as an educational and scientific institution serving the Caribbean's largest island nation.