São Paulo Zoo
São Paulo
São Paulo Zoo, located in the South Zone of São Paulo city, is Brazil's largest zoo, spanning over 824,000 square meters of preserved Atlantic Forest. Established in 1958, the zoo hosts more than 3,200 animals from 102 mammal species, 216 bird species, 95 reptile species, and various amphibians and invertebrates. The enclosures replicate natural habitats, emphasizing conservation and education. The zoo includes a nursery for orphaned cubs, incubation facilities for birds and reptiles, and a large farm producing feed and materials for animal care. It is renowned for pioneering recovery programs for endangered Brazilian species like the lion tamarin and Lear's macaw. The zoo also features the historic Ipiranga Brook spring and four kilometers of pathways amidst native vegetation. Its library and partnerships with research institutions support ongoing zoological studies and species preservation. Visitors can enjoy animal exhibits, educational workshops, and a safari-style tour area reopened in 2001. Recognized by the Guinness Book as Brazil's largest zoo since 1994, it ranks among the top zoos in Latin America for both conservation and visitor experience.
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Tip: Visit during weekdays or cooler months to avoid crowds and enjoy a more tranquil experience. Advance ticket purchase is recommended to streamline entry. The zoo offers educational workshops and lectures that enhance the visit. Discounts may be available for children, seniors, and groups. Allow ample time to explore both the main zoo and the Safari area for a full experience.
Interesting facts
- •The São Paulo Zoo is the largest zoo in Brazil and one of the largest in the world, covering over 824,000 square meters of Atlantic Forest.
- •It houses over 3,200 animals representing more than 400 species, including the only snow leopard in Brazil.
- •The zoo was home to Cacareco, a rhinoceros famous for being elected city councilor in 1958 elections.
- •Since 1994, it has been recognized by the Guinness Book as the largest zoo in Brazil.
- •The zoo operates a farm of 572 hectares producing vegetables used for animal feed and enclosure materials.
- •It has a nursery for cubs rejected by their mothers and incubation facilities for eggs of birds and reptiles.
- •The zoo is actively involved in conservation programs for endangered Brazilian species such as the lion tamarin, small neotropical felids, and Lear's macaws.
History
The São Paulo Zoo was created in June 1957 by decree of Governor Jânio Quadros and inaugurated in March 1958 with 445 animals, including exotic species acquired from circuses and native Brazilian fauna from Manaus.
It was the first Brazilian institution to engage in recovery programs for endangered species such as the lion tamarin and Lear's macaw.
In 1959, the São Paulo Zoo Foundation was established with administrative and scientific autonomy to manage the park.
In 2001, the adjacent Simba Safari area was incorporated and reopened as Zoo Safari, offering immersive animal viewing experiences.
Since 1994, the zoo has been recognized by the Guinness Book as Brazil's largest and has been classified by IBAMA in the highest environmental management category.
Place Guide
Main Animal Exhibits
The zoo features enclosures replicating natural habitats for over 3,200 animals across mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates, offering visitors immersive wildlife viewing experiences.
Zoo Safari2001
Opened in 2001, this area offers tours where visitors can observe animals roaming freely in wooded areas, providing a safari-like experience within the city.
Educational Facilities and Library
The zoo emphasizes education with workshops, lectures, and a public library containing over four thousand volumes related to zoology and conservation.
Contact
Phone: (11) 4934-6804
