Did you know that there are more than 20 zoos and aquariums in São Paulo? The capital of São Paulo and other cities in our state are home to a rich diversity of wildlife. These sanctuaries offer visitors the chance to connect with animals from all over the world.
From majestic lions to graceful seahorses, there is something for all animal lovers to explore. So get ready to venture into the fascinating world of animals and learn about the importance of environmental conservation.
Check out some of the best zoos and aquariums in São Paulo
São Paulo Zoo
The São Paulo Zoo is the largest in Brazil, with more than 800,000 m² of original Atlantic Forest. For this reason, it has become an important place in the preservation of fauna and flora within the city. It is also home to species from different parts of the world and is considered one of the best in the world when it comes to animal rescue. The enclosures faithfully reproduce the residents’ natural habitats, so visitors have the opportunity to observe up close the behavior of elephants, lions, giraffes and much more.
📍Avenida Miguel Estefano, 4241 – Água Funda
São Paulo Aquarium
Did you know that the São Paulo Aquarium is the largest in Latin America? The institution was founded with the mission of conservation, education and environmental research. That’s why the main concern here is animal welfare. With themed tanks that recreate marine ecosystems from all over the world, the public can come face to face with sharks, rays and other species. The space is also home to polar bears, penguins and even kangaroos.
📍 Huet Bacelar Street, 407 – Ipiranga
Zoo Safari
Located next to the São Paulo Zoo, Zoo Safári offers a unique experience, allowing visitors to observe animals loose in large enclosures that simulate their natural habitats. Along a journey of almost 3km, made inside the car itself, the public sees lions, tigers, zebras and other species in an environment similar to that of an African savannah.
📍Avenida do Cursino, 6338 – Vila Moraes
Santos Municipal Aquarium
The Santos Aquarium is the oldest in Brazil and a pioneer in projects to preserve the sea and its inhabitants. With more than 200 species of marine animals, the space has turtles, sharks and penguins in 32 saltwater and freshwater tanks. Discover the charms of the São Paulo coast ecosystem in this unmissable attraction.
📍Praça Vereador Luiz La Scala s/n – Santos
Quinzinho de Barros Municipal Zoo
The Quinzinho de Barros Municipal Zoo offers more than just a walk, but an educational experience. After all, according to Sorocaba City Hall, the space is a highlight among Brazilian zoos it is classified by IBAMA as “Category A”. 1.145 animals from 290 species live here. In other words, this zoo is a great place to learn about Brazilian fauna and the importance of environmental conservation.
📍Rua Teodoro Kaisel, 883 – Sorocaba
Itatiba Zoo
Just 90 km from São Paulo, this wildlife sanctuary features more than 1,200 animals of 180 species in a remnant area of the Atlantic Forest. With spacious areas designed for animal welfare, visitors can observe animals such as giraffes, zebras, tapirs and elephants, and take part in educational activities.
📍Rodovia Dom Pedro I, KM 95.5 – Itatiba
Ubatuba Aquarium
Finally, in one of the most beautiful cities on the São Paulo coast, the Ubatuba Aquarium offers a unique experience of contact with the local marine life. The site has more than 110 species and 430 rescued animals, in other words, an impressive selection in tanks that reproduce coastal and ocean ecosystems. Highlights include sea turtles and even the mysterious hammerhead shark.
📍Rua Guarani, 859 – Itaguá