Loro Parque, located inland from Puerto de la Cruz, is one of Tenerife’s most beloved attractions and a must-visit for families and animal lovers. What started as a small parrot park has grown into a world-renowned “animal embassy,” featuring a diverse array of mammals, birds, fish, and reptiles. With its commitment to conservation and education, Loro Parque offers visitors an unforgettable experience. Let’s explore the highlights of this iconic park and why it has captivated the hearts of over 50 million visitors in its 50-year history.
The Evolution of Loro Parque
Loro Parque opened its doors in 1972 as a sanctuary for parrots. Over the years, it has expanded to include a vast range of animal species and become a leader in wildlife conservation and education.
- Parrot Paradise: Despite its growth, Loro Parque remains true to its origins with one of the largest collections of parrots in the world. The park is home to over 4,000 parrots representing more than 350 species and subspecies. Visitors can marvel at the colorful array of these intelligent birds and learn about the park’s efforts to protect endangered parrot species through breeding programs and habitat preservation.
- Animal Diversity: Today, Loro Parque is much more than a parrot sanctuary. It features an impressive collection of animals, including dolphins, orcas, penguins, gorillas, tigers, and many more. The park is designed to provide spacious and naturalistic habitats for its residents, promoting their well-being and encouraging natural behaviors.
Must-See Attractions and Shows
Loro Parque offers a variety of attractions and daily shows that highlight the beauty and intelligence of its animal inhabitants. Here are some of the must-see experiences:
- Dolphinarium: The Dolphin Show is a crowd favorite, showcasing the acrobatics and playful behavior of the park’s resident dolphins. The show combines entertainment with education, teaching visitors about dolphin biology and the importance of marine conservation.
- Orca Ocean: Loro Parque is one of the few places in the world where you can see orcas up close. The Orca Show demonstrates the strength and agility of these magnificent marine mammals. The park emphasizes the educational aspect of the show, providing insights into orca behavior and the challenges they face in the wild.
- Planet Penguin: This exhibit is home to one of the largest penguin colonies outside of the natural environment. Visitors can observe different species of penguins as they waddle, swim, and interact in a habitat that mimics the Antarctic climate, complete with real snow.
- Katandra Treetops: A walk-through aviary that allows visitors to experience the sights and sounds of a tropical rainforest. You can observe and even feed various bird species as they fly freely around you.
- Lion’s Kingdom: This exhibit provides a safe and spacious environment for the park’s pride of lions. It’s a great opportunity to observe these majestic animals up close and learn about their role in the ecosystem.
- AquaViva: This exhibit features a mesmerizing display of jellyfish, showcasing their delicate beauty and bioluminescence. It’s a calming and visually stunning part of the park that highlights the diversity of marine life.
The Parrot Shows
Loro Parque’s parrot shows are legendary and a key part of its charm. These daily shows feature trained parrots performing a variety of tricks and demonstrations.
- Flying Demonstrations: Watch in awe as parrots soar through the air, showcasing their incredible flying skills. These demonstrations often include playful interactions with the audience, such as birds flying overhead and rearranging the hair of unsuspecting visitors.
- Educational Talks: The shows also include informative talks about parrot species, their habitats, and the conservation challenges they face. It’s an engaging way to learn more about these fascinating birds while being entertained.
Commitment to Conservation
Loro Parque is deeply committed to wildlife conservation and environmental education. The Loro Parque Foundation plays a crucial role in these efforts, funding numerous projects around the world to protect endangered species and their habitats.
- Breeding Programs: The park has successful breeding programs for several endangered species, contributing to their preservation and increasing their populations.
- Research and Education: Loro Parque collaborates with scientific institutions and universities to conduct research on animal behavior, health, and conservation. Educational programs and workshops are also offered to raise awareness about wildlife conservation.
- Sustainability Initiatives: The park implements various sustainability practices, such as renewable energy use, waste reduction, and water conservation, to minimize its environmental impact.
Visitor Tips and Information
- Plan Your Visit: Loro Parque is large, so plan to spend a full day exploring the park. Check the schedule for showtimes to ensure you don’t miss any of the major attractions.
- Tickets: Purchase tickets in advance online to avoid long lines at the entrance. Consider a combination ticket if you also plan to visit Siam Park, another popular attraction in Tenerife.
- Accessibility: The park is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and designated viewing areas for shows. Wheelchairs are available for rent.
- Dining Options: Loro Parque offers a variety of dining options, from casual snack bars to full-service restaurants. Enjoy a meal or snack while taking a break from exploring the park.
- Souvenirs: Visit the park’s gift shops for a wide range of souvenirs, including plush toys, clothing, and unique items related to the park’s animals.
Conclusion
Loro Parque is a must-visit destination in Tenerife, offering an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages. From its humble beginnings as a parrot sanctuary, the park has evolved into a world-class “animal embassy” dedicated to conservation, education, and entertainment. Whether you’re marveling at the acrobatics of dolphins, watching majestic orcas, or enjoying the playful antics of parrots, Loro Parque promises a day filled with wonder and discovery. So, make sure to add this iconic attraction to your Tenerife itinerary and experience the magic of Loro Parque life.
