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Parque Zoológico Benito Juárez

About

The Benito Juárez Zoo is one of the most popular family vacation spots in the city of Morelia. Located in the picturesque state of Michoacán, this zoological park offers guests a unique opportunity to explore the amazing world of wildlife in Mexico and other corners of the globe.

Benito Juárez Zoo. Source: Kupi.com AI

This place is famous for its spacious enclosures and caring attitude toward its inhabitants. Here, you can encounter a wide variety of fauna, from majestic mammals to bright tropical birds and mysterious reptiles. The zoo is harmoniously integrated into the urban landscape, creating the feeling of a walk through a real forest in the heart of civilization.

Thanks to its high ratings and positive traveler reviews, Parque Zoológico Benito Juárez is considered a must-visit for those who want to enjoy the fresh air and learn more about the region's biodiversity. It is not just an animal exhibition, but an important center for education and the conservation of rare species.

Contacts

When planning your visit to the Benito Juárez Zoo, it is helpful to have current contact information on hand. You can find details about special events or visiting rules by phone or on the institution's official website.

Address Calz. Juárez S/N, Félix Ireta, 58070 Morelia, Mich., Mexico
Phone +52 443 299 3610
Website zoomorelia.michoacan.gob.mx
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What to Do

Visiting this park in Mexico is a true adventure where everyone will find something to enjoy. The main attraction is undoubtedly observing exotic animals. While strolling through the shaded pathways, you can see lions, giraffes, and local endemic species in conditions that closely mimic their natural habitat. Photographers will appreciate the chance to capture great shots of the residents without obstructive bars.

For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, the zoo provides special picnic areas. It is an ideal place to take a break, have a snack, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere surrounded by greenery. Interactive exhibits and educational displays help both children and adults learn more about animal behavior and the importance of environmental protection.

It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes, as the zoo grounds are quite extensive. Throughout the day, interesting lectures or animal feeding demonstrations are often held, making the visit even more educational and emotionally rewarding.

Getting There

Getting to the zoo at Calz. Juárez S/N is easy. The fastest way is by taxi or rented car from downtown Morelia; the trip takes about 10–15 minutes. For navigation, you can use coordinates or simply give the park's name to the driver.

If you prefer public transportation, buses regularly run toward the Félix Ireta district. Routes passing along Calz. Juárez will drop you off almost right at the entrance. For those arriving from Morelia International Airport, a taxi is the best option, reaching the site in about 20–30 minutes.

For residents of nearby neighborhoods, a walk can be a pleasant addition to the visit, as the zoo is located in a very green and pedestrian-friendly part of the city. However, during peak hours, be mindful of potential heavy traffic on the access roads.

History & Facts

While precise records of the Benito Juárez Zoo's founding are difficult to find in historical archives, its name speaks volumes. The park is named after one of Mexico's most revered national heroes — President Benito Juárez, who became a symbol of reform and the country's struggle for independence.

Over the decades, this zoological garden has evolved alongside the city, becoming an important part of Morelia's cultural and ecological heritage. Today, it is not just a place for entertainment but a living monument to the Mexican people's commitment to preserving their unique nature.

Interestingly, the zoo has become an integral part of the tourist route through Morelia, complementing its famous colonial architecture with natural diversity. Even without grand legends, an atmosphere of generational continuity is felt in every corner, as many locals first came here as children with their parents.

Time Needed

To leisurely explore all the exhibits and enjoy the walk, a typical visitor will need 3 to 4 hours. This is enough time to see the main enclosures, visit the terrarium, and take a short break in the shade of the trees.

If you are planning a visit with children, it is better to set aside about 5 hours. Little travelers often linger by the enclosures of the most active animals or want to spend time at the playgrounds, which significantly increases the total stay in the park.

Working Hours

The Benito Juárez Zoo operates on a consistent schedule, which is very convenient for tourists when planning their itinerary. The complex is open daily, including weekends, from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

This schedule allows you to choose the most comfortable time for your visit: you can arrive right at opening to catch the animals' morning activity, or stop by in the afternoon when the midday heat subsides.

Nearby

Morelia is a city rich in interesting sites, and a visit to the zoo can easily be combined with exploring other Mexican attractions located nearby. This will make your day as fulfilling and diverse as possible.

Within a few kilometers, you will find both active recreation spots and specialized aquariums that serve as excellent complements to the zoological theme of your trip.

Attraction Distance (km)
Tobogán Gigante 2.1
Acuario Hábitat 2.2
Bosque Cuauhtémoc 2.3
La Casa del Estanque Morelia 2.3
Fauna Acuario 3.0
Acuario Azúl 3.0
Acuario Poseídon Chedrawi 3.0
Acuario Juárez 3.6
Life Aquarium Morelia 4.2
Acuario Diversidad Marina 4.4

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