ZOOUNAMA

Immerse yourself in the world of wildlife at the Santarém Zoo (known as ZOOUNAMA) — a unique scientific and natural center that serves as a primary refuge for Amazonian flora and fauna. This site in the city of Santarém is not just a place for a stroll, but a true santuário (sanctuary) for biodiversity conservation, sprawling across a vast territory of 149 hectares.

Santarem Zoo. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

Founded in 2007, this zoological park in Brazil harmoniously combines an educational function with serious scientific research. Under the supervision of qualified biologists and veterinarians, rare species live here: from graceful pumas and vibrant macaws to playful macaques and majestic Amazonian manatees. About 18 hectares of the park are dedicated to specially equipped exhibits and walking routes, allowing tourists to observe the animals safely.

The main feature of this place is its commitment to rehabilitation principles. Many of the zoo's inhabitants were rescued from captivity or found injured in the Amazon forests. A walk through ZOOUNAMA gives visitors a rare opportunity to see black caimans and wild collared peccaries in conditions as close as possible to their natural habitat, all while knowing that behind every enclosure is painstaking work to protect the region's nature.

To confirm the latest information before your visit, you can use the zoo's official communication channels.

The main reason to visit the zoo is to walk along the ecological trails winding through dense Amazonian vegetation. You can look into the pools of peaceful manatees, see the bright plumage of macaws, and observe the habits of secretive pumas in their spacious enclosures. Be sure to climb the small hill, which offers a panoramic view of the park's territory and the surrounding Serra do Índio landscape.

Of particular interest is the "Manatee Project". If you are lucky, you will witness specialists caring for rescued orphans of this species. These amazing mammals are fed milk and grass for several years before being released back into the rivers. This is a unique opportunity to see the work of environmental scientists "from the inside" and understand how the population of the region's aquatic inhabitants is being restored.

For those who want to learn more about the complexity of tropical ecosystems, guided tours are available. Guides point out even the smallest details, such as the role of termites in the life of the forest. The zoo provides excellent conditions for "photo hunting": birds here are often in free flight, and the landscapes allow for impressive wildlife shots. It is an ideal place for a family vacation, where children can learn about the importance of environmental protection in a fun way.

The attraction is located in the Matinha district, on the outskirts of the city. You can reach it from the center of Santarém by taxi or private car; the journey usually takes 15 to 30 minutes depending on traffic. This is the most comfortable and fastest way to reach the zoo entrance.

If you prefer public transport, use buses heading to the Matinha district. Stops are located within walking distance of the site; however, it is recommended to check route numbers with locals or hotel staff in advance. Special transfers are often offered for organized tourist groups as part of ecological tours.

For those traveling by their own transport, parking is provided on the territory. The area is considered quiet, but visitors are advised to follow basic safety rules and the instructions of the zoo's security service.

The history of this amazing place began on September 22, 2007. The zoo was founded on the initiative of the Amazon University Center (UNAMA) as a specialized platform for scientific research and the preservation of the region's unique fauna and flora. Since its inception, ZOOUNAMA has aimed not just at displaying animals but at their full rehabilitation.

Over the years, the zoo has become a true rescue center: by various estimates, staff have managed to return dozens to hundreds of rescued individuals to their natural habitat. This place has evolved into a key scientific hub in the state of Pará, where biologists and veterinarians study the ecosystems of the Tapajós River basin, striving to preserve the Amazon's biodiversity for future generations.

A particular source of pride for the institution is the "Manatee Project" (Projeto Peixe-boi), launched in 2008. As part of this initiative, specialists rescue orphaned Amazonian manatee calves. The animals undergo a long preparation cycle — from artificial feeding to gradual adaptation to the wild — making the project one of the most significant in the field of aquatic mammal protection in Brazil.

Today, the zoo continues to grow, expanding its infrastructure and building new, more modern enclosures. Collaboration with local authorities and participation in eco-tourism projects, such as “Caminhos da Floresta”, confirms the zoo's important role in the social and scientific life of the region.

To leisurely explore the entire territory and meet its inhabitants, guests usually need about 3-4 hours. This time is quite sufficient to walk all the ecological trails, visit the enclosures with big cats, and observe the aquatic residents.

If you plan to join a guided tour or want to spend more time photographing Amazonian birds in free flight, your stay at the zoo could stretch to half a day. Given the size of the territory at 149 hectares, it is worth wearing comfortable shoes for long walks.

The zoo usually welcomes visitors daily, including weekends. Standard operating hours are from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Please note that some sources may indicate an extended interval from 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM, so it is best to arrive in the morning to have time to see all the enclosures before closing.

Admission to the territory is paid, but the ticket price is symbolic (about 3 reais), making a visit accessible to every tourist. Before your visit, it is recommended to check for current information on the official website or social media, as the schedule may change due to holidays or maintenance work.

A walk around the zoo's surroundings will allow you to better feel the atmosphere of the region and get acquainted with the local way of life. Within a few kilometers of ZOOUNAMA, there are various public spaces and local recreation centers that can be an interesting addition to your itinerary.

Below are some locations situated relatively nearby: