Tucked away behind Lagos, on the road to Barão de São João, is an engaging place that offers a great day out for all the family throughout the year.
Zoolagos opened its gates in April 2000 and has since grown in size and reputation. The most recent addition is a pygmy hippopotamus, born at the zoo on October 19 — an extremely important event as this species falls under the European Endangered Species Programme.
The zoo is open all year round and holds the Clean & Safe seal which means it is compliant with all measures required to keep visitors and staff safe, as recommended by the DGS (the Portuguese health directorate) during the pandemic.
Feeding times for pelicans, otters, penguins and lemurs are available online and for other animals just ask at reception on arrival.
There is a penguin beach, a bat enclosure, meerkats, lynx and many more animals to spot including reptiles, amphibians and fish.
The zoo is active in environmental campaigns and breeding programmes for endangered species and participates in conservation projects also.
For a day ticket, adults pay €18 and children €14, seniors €16. To receive a discount tickets can be bought online. However, if you want to visit more than once you can become a Zoo Friend by buying a card for a designated period of time, €45 for adults and €30 for children (4 to 11 years). For those resident in Algarve a special entry price of €10 is available throughout December, a great time to visit Zoolagos’ Natalândia (Christmas land).
Open during the winter months from 10am to 5pm and with a great restaurant next door (O Cangalho) that serves both traditional and international dishes, a day out at the zoo will certainly be enjoyable, especially with children.
Throughout December the zoo is holding various workshops and interactive programmes, click here for the zoo’s Facebook page with more information on current happenings.
For other ideas of things to do during the winter click here or contact us directly.