Nov.6, 2009
Gramado Zoo, the newest zoo in Brazil, opened in September 2008 with a focus on animal well-being, research, education and conservation as well as entertainment. Three years of research and two of construction preceded the opening.
About 1,500 animals, including threatened species, live at the zoo - 1,000 of which are native to Brazil. Many were found injured in illegal captivity, or rescued from illegal traders by IBAMA, the Brazilian Institute for the Environment and Natural Renewable Resources. The zoo has a veterinary hospital and a nursery.
The zoo strives to reproduce natural habitats as closely as possible and large free-flight aviaries are among the top attractions. You can walk amidst lush vegetation and come up close with several native species, such as parrots and macaws.
In the felines' area, thick glass walls separate visitors from the animals, which often come up close without feeling perturbed, as the glass is one-way.
Visitors can also enjoy expansive views of the surrounding mountains from the zoo grounds.
At the circular restaurant, shaped like an indigenous thatched hut, try the Guabi crepe, one of several options kids are likely to enjoy. Brazilian animals grace the souvenirs at the zoo store, which donates a share of the profits to research and conservation of species threatened with extinction.
Gramado Zoo Photos:
Meet some of the zoo's residents in this Gramado Zoo photo gallery.
Accessibility:
Gramado Zoo is fully accessible to wheelchair users and visitors with disabilities.
Hours:
Daily 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Ticket Prices:
R$15 (check daily US dollar-real exchange rates); kids pay half
Address:
Highway RS 115 – Km 35
Gramado - RS
Brazil
