Emperor Valley Zoo is the only state zoo in Trinidad and Tobago. Spanning approximately 3 hectares, it is located in the picturesque northern part of Port of Spain, right at the boundary of the Royal Botanic Gardens.
Emperor Valley Zoo. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI
Its name, which translates as "Emperor's Valley," was inspired by the magnificent blue morpho butterfly (the Emperor), which was once found in abundance in this area. Today, the zoo is home to over 2,300 animals, representing more than 200 species of both local and global fauna.
It is not just a place for a stroll, but a real educational center and a popular recreation area for families. Visitors come here to see the unique biodiversity of the Caribbean and exotic inhabitants from other continents surrounded by lush tropical greenery.
Contacts
For more information about special events or group tours, you can use the following contact details:
At the "Emperor's Valley," visitors can encounter an amazing world of animals. Here, you can see the majestic white Bengal tigers, which have become the pride of the collection, as well as African lions and giraffes. Be sure to stop by the enclosures for the scarlet ibis — the country's national bird, whose vibrant red plumage is truly striking.
The zoo's territory is conveniently divided into thematic zones. You can explore the mysterious reptile house, home to caimans and snakes, watch the activity in the primate enclosures, or admire the bright macaws. For those who love the aquatic world, there is an aquarium with local fish species, and a walk past the waterfowl ponds provides a sense of tranquility and harmony with nature.
Getting There
Finding the Emperor Valley Zoo is quite simple — it is located on Zoo Road in the picturesque St. Clair district. The facility is situated right at the northern border of Queen's Park Savannah and adjacent to the Royal Botanic Gardens, making it an ideal starting point for an extensive walking route through the capital.
The most convenient way to reach the zoo is by taxi from the city center; the trip takes very little time. If you prefer public transport, look for maxi-taxis or buses heading to the Savannah. Walking enthusiasts can reach the zoo from the city’s central districts, enjoying the colonial architecture on the way to the northern part of Port of Spain.
Ближайший город: Port of Spain
History & Facts
The history of the Emperor Valley Zoo began on November 8, 1952, when it was officially opened by Governor Sir Hubert Rance. In its early days, it was a modest institution: the collection consisted of only 127 animals housed in ten enclosures, primarily representing local fauna.
The zoo received its poetic name in honor of the imperial blue morpho butterfly. These magnificent insects once lived in abundance in the valley where the enclosures are now located, becoming a true natural symbol of the site.
Over the last few decades, the park has undergone a massive transformation. Thanks to the efforts of the Zoological Society of Trinidad and Tobago and significant government investment, the infrastructure has been completely modernized. Today, it is a modern center that not only displays animals but is also actively involved in species conservation and environmental education.
Time Needed
Most guests find 1.5–2 hours sufficient for a standard introduction to the zoo's main exhibits. This time allows you to leisurely visit all the thematic sections, take photos, and observe the behavior of the most popular inhabitants.
If you are planning to visit the zoo with children or want to study the aquarium and reptile house collections in detail, it’s better to set aside half a day. This will avoid rushing and allow you to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the park, which borders the botanical gardens.
Working Hours
Emperor Valley Zoo is open to visitors daily, including weekends, making it easy to include in any travel itinerary. The administration maintains a consistent schedule throughout the week.
Opening Hours:
Monday — Sunday: 08:00 – 18:00
8:00 – 18:00
Nearby
A visit to the zoo can easily be combined with exploring other historical and cultural gems of the city. The St. Clair district and the area around Queen's Park Savannah are famous for their unique architecture and shady avenues, which turn an ordinary walk into a fascinating journey through time.
