Related Place: Lisboa
Key Historical Milestones
Foundation (1884): The zoo was created thanks to Dr. Pedro Van der Laan, José Thomaz de Sousa Martins, and Baron de Kessler, with the support of King Fernando II and zoologist José Vicente Barbosa du Bocage.
Relocations: In 1894, the zoo moved to the site of today’s Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation. On May 28, 1905, the new and final complex in Quinta das Laranjeiras officially opened — the location where the zoo remains today.
Public Institution Status: Granted on March 12, 1913.
Development: The original collection included more than 1,100 animals. Large shipments of animals from Africa and Brazil meant that for many years the Lisbon Zoo had one of the largest animal collections in the world. Colonial governors actively contributed to expanding the collection.
After the fall of the regime in 1974 and the independence of African colonies, government support for diversifying the zoo’s collection ended. This created the need for a new management strategy.
In 1990, Félix Naharro Pires, the new president of the zoo, introduced a modern management system focused on upgrading facilities and services. Specialized work areas were created to improve the collection, animal welfare, feeding, and veterinary care.
At the same time, commercial, marketing, PR, and press departments were established to promote the zoo as a privileged partner for companies.
Environmental education also became a priority, leading to the creation of the zoo’s own Educational Center.
The zoo stopped being just a showcase for animals and took on an active role in nature conservation. Improved living conditions led to higher birth rates.
The veterinary clinic, opened in 2008, was recognized as the best in Europe by the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA).
Today, the zoo has a new mission and message. It features new attractions and facilities, combining conservation, education, entertainment, and fun.
The zoo is home to around 2,000 animals of about 300 species, including mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians.It now serves as an educational institution with one of the best learning environments in the country, offering a rich and effective educational experience through its animal collection, space, and activities.
Zoo Highlights
Specialization: Focus on primates and big cats, with active participation in species conservation; programs.
Infrastructure: Includes a dolphinarium, children’s area, and a cable car offering aerial views of the zoo;
Conditions: Many animals live in spacious enclosures that closely mimic their natural habitats;
Animals from All Continents
The zoo’s collection allows visitors to discover a wide variety of animals — it’s easy to feel like a world traveler here:
African zone: lions, giraffes, zebras, rhinos;
Tropical pavilion: rare reptiles and exotic birds;
Tiger Valley: majestic Amur and Sumatran tigers;
Oceanarium: sea lions and dolphins;
A special point of pride is the zoo’s breeding program for rare species, including primates and large predators. Many animals participate in international biodiversity conservation programs.
Dolphinarium — the Zoo’s Signature Attraction
The dolphin show is one of the most popular events. It’s not just entertainment — it’s an educational program that explains the behavior, intelligence, and conservation needs of marine mammals. Shows take place several times a day and fill the amphitheater.
Cable Car: The Zoo from a Bird’s-Eye View
One of the most unique features of the Lisbon Zoo is its cable car. Small cabins glide slowly above the enclosures, offering stunning views of the animals and green pathways. It’s a calm, almost meditative ride enjoyed by both children and adults.
Infrastructure and Visitor Comfort
The zoo is thoughtfully designed:
numerous cafés and rest areas;
children’s playgrounds;
interactive educational zones;
souvenir shops;
convenient metro access — Jardim Zoológico station is right at the entrance;
The grounds are well-maintained, green, and spacious, making the visit pleasant even on hot days.
Educational Mission
The Lisbon Zoo actively works with children and schools, offering themed lessons, guided tours, and summer camps. Its main goal is to teach younger generations to respect nature and understand the importance of preserving ecosystems.
Why You Should Visit
The Lisbon Zoo offers:
a full day surrounded by nature;
the chance to see rare animals;
engaging shows and activities;
a perfect family outing;
an opportunity to support endangered species conservation;