Zoo de Lagos is a zoo in the Algarve, a short drive inland from Lagos, set in gardens with more than 200 types of plants. The collection has more than 120 species, with a strong group of primates, including lemurs, gibbons and marmosets, and birds such as flamingos, toucans and hornbills. Some enclosures have only a moat or a low wall between you and the animals. Look for the hippos and the Iberian lynx, and plan your route around the feeding times.
What the zoo focuses on
Zoo de Lagos sits on a garden estate near Benzafrim, a short drive from Lagos. The grounds hold more than 200 types of plants alongside the animal collection, and the zoo works across conservation, education and animal welfare.
The zoo supports the Iberian lynx through a programme of preservation and reintroduction into the wild. Informative boards at the enclosures cover each species, and some of the facts about how animals fare in the wild are sobering. The visit is more than a walk past enclosures.
Animals and enclosures
The collection leans toward primates and birds. Monkeys, gibbons, marmosets, lemurs and other small primates are among the most visible groups, and the flamingos are a highlight for many visitors.
Other birds include toucans, hornbills, emus, cockatoos, cranes, kookaburras, storks and pelicans. Penguins, wallabies, capybaras, vultures, hippos, including pygmy hippos, lynx, reptiles and crocodiles are also kept here. Expect birds, primates and smaller mammals rather than elephants, giraffes, lions or bears, which the zoo does not keep.
Some enclosures are open, or separated from the path only by a moat or low walls, so you can stand close to the animals. The zoo is small enough to walk through in one visit, and the paths are easy to follow.
Planning the visit
The site is level throughout and well shaded, so you can visit in the middle of the day when it is hot. The entrance, restrooms, seating and parking are wheelchair accessible. Families have used lightweight buggies on the paths without trouble.
Feeding sessions run through the day, and the farm animals offer feeding opportunities for children. The zoo also offers tours and suits children's birthday parties. Book tickets in advance, as the zoo recommends.
The zoo lies inland, north-west of Lagos near the A22 road, roughly 15 to 20 minutes by car from the town. Parking is available on site, with both free and paid car parks.
Food and facilities
The on-site restaurant serves a wide range of hot food at fair prices, and there is a cafe on site as well. A playground and a children's play area sit close to the food areas, and the zoo has a petting zoo and a gift shop.
The zoo is open year-round and every day of the week.
FAQ
Is there an entry fee?
Yes, entry requires a ticket, and booking in advance is recommended. Check the zoo's website for current prices before you go.
How long do you need at Zoo de Lagos?
Plan two to three hours. The site is compact, so you can walk through the whole collection in that time.
Is Zoo de Lagos suitable with a pushchair or wheelchair?
Yes. The paths are level, and the entrance, restrooms, seating and parking are wheelchair accessible. Families have used lightweight buggies on the paths.
Does the zoo have elephants or lions?
No. The collection is mainly birds, primates and smaller animals, and the zoo does not keep elephants, giraffes, lions or bears.
