Bica Park (Arruda Câmara Park Zoo and Botanical Garden)
Paraíba
Bica Park, officially known as Parque Zoobotânico Arruda Câmara, is a renowned zoo and botanical garden located in João Pessoa, Paraíba, Brazil. Covering 26.8 hectares, the park is a protected area preserving remnants of the Atlantic Forest biome. It is home to approximately 500 animals across 80 species, including elephants, lions, macaws, and alligators, alongside a vast array of native Brazilian flora. The park is popularly called "Bica" due to a natural potable water spring located centrally within its grounds. Serving as an ecological sanctuary amidst the urban environment, it attracts around 110,000 visitors annually, comprising both tourists and locals. The park offers a unique blend of natural beauty, wildlife conservation, and cultural heritage, making it a vital green space and educational resource in the capital of Paraíba.
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Tip: The best time to visit Bica Park is during the cooler morning hours to enjoy the animals and botanical gardens comfortably. It is advisable to check the park's official website or contact them by phone for updated opening hours and any special events. Visitors may benefit from discounted tickets by purchasing in advance or through local tourism packages. Comfortable walking shoes and sun protection are recommended due to the park's extensive outdoor areas.
Interesting facts
- •Bica Park is protected by the Institute of Historical and Artistic Heritage of Paraíba (IPHAEP) since August 26, 1980.
- •The park is home to about 500 animals representing 80 different species, including iconic animals like elephants and lions.
- •The name 'Bica' derives from a natural spring of potable water located at the park's center.
- •Annually, the park receives approximately 110,000 visitors, making it a popular urban green space.
- •The park preserves a remnant of the Atlantic Forest, one of the world's most biodiverse ecosystems.
History
The origins of Bica Park trace back to December 24, 1822, when the Fazenda Provedoria authorized the construction of a water fountain at a small grove with a flowing stream.
By 1831, the site's boundaries were expanded, and its definitive construction was completed in 1889.
At that time, the park spanned 43 hectares before being expropriated by Mayor Walfredo Guedes Pereira between 1920 and 1924.
The park was named after Manuel Arruda Câmara, a distinguished botanist from Pombal, Paraíba.
Over the years, the park evolved into a protected ecological sanctuary and was officially listed by IPHAEP in 1980 for its environmental and cultural significance.
Place Guide
Natural Spring (Fonte Tambiá)1822
A central natural spring of potable water within the park, historically significant and linked to an indigenous legend about love and loss. It symbolizes the park's name and serves as a focal point for visitors.
Animal Exhibits
The park hosts around 500 animals from 80 species, including elephants, lions, macaws, and alligators, offering visitors a chance to observe diverse wildlife in a naturalistic setting.
Botanical Gardens
The park preserves a remnant of the Atlantic Forest, showcasing a wide variety of Brazilian native plants and providing an ecological oasis within the urban area.
Contact
Phone: (83) 3213-7021
