We recently visited the Amaru Zoo here in Cuenca. It made for a really nice morning.
The Zoo is located on the side of a hill so it’s like a trip to the zoo and a hike all in one. The ground is uneven so make sure to wear sturdy shoes/sneakers. The view from the zoo looking down on the city is amazing!
Nice view of Cuenca
Our Visit to Amaru Zoo in Cuenca Ecuador
There are 28 different kinds of animals at the zoo and they have fairly large enclosures. Ever since we heard about the Andean bear (while we were still back in Canada) we had wanted to see one. So we were really happy to see 2 at the Amaru Zoo. They have a very friendly looking face.
While most of the animals actually live in Ecuador, they are all still new to us.
He has such a sweet face
Some of the other animals we saw were monkeys, alpacas, a mountain lion, deer, lions, ostriches, caiman, harpy eagles and parrots.
We went in the morning and there were only a couple of the animals that we could not see because they were hiding in their enclosures. The morning might be a good time to go because the sun isn’t usually very strong, so the animals might be out and about rather than hiding in the shade.
He looks so intelligent
There is a nice shaded area to sit down and enjoy a snack. The little restaurant serves hot dogs, burgers, cookies, chips, drinks and other snacks.
The bathrooms are just down the hill from the snack area. There were also bathrooms not far from the entrance.
The zoo is a great place for a family outing.
The signs say not to be separated from your children, this is important because the ground is uneven and because some of the animals are not caged, like some of the monkeys and parrots. So it could be dangerous to let your kids run ahead.
Getting to Amaru Zoo
Directions to the Zoo: Autopista Cuenca – Azogues 10 1/2 kilometers, in front of the Hospital del Rio, but on the opposite side of the Autopista. They are open Tuesday through Friday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, and from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm on Saturday and Sunday.
There are Andean bears, tigers, pumas, parrots and giant tortoises. There are also lots of monkeys (like these squirrel monkeys), white tailed deer, Andean squirrels, peccary and African lions. In total, there are 70 species with more than 650 animals. This video highlights some of our favorites. Hope you enjoy!
Please share your favorites in the comments below!
The Animals of Amaru Zoo, Cuenca Ecuador
Photos of the Animals at the Amaru Zoo
Here are a few of the photos that we included in the video slideshow.
Which animal is your favorite? Have you been to the zoo? Please share your comments on this post.
- About the Author
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Hi, I’m Dena Haines. And I’m co-founder of Storyteller Travel. I love to cover food, animals, and destinations around the world.
I also blog about photography at Storyteller Tech.
Stephanie Mayo
Sunday 17th of March 2013
Looks like a decent zoo. Great pictures!
Jerry A.
Friday 15th of March 2013
We recently returned from a trip to Ecuador including Cuenca where friends live and we are considering relocating part time. Thanks for bringing the zoo to our attention, as we were not aware of it - probably doesn't get a lot of tourist promotion. We'll be sure to see it when we go back in early 2014 to scope out opportunities to live in Ecuador.
James Drummondo
Wednesday 13th of March 2013
Highly recommend a visit to the zoo, great way to spend 1/2 a day. They feed the lions at 1:00, get there a few minutes early to get an 'up close and personal' spot along the fence.
rob rodman
Tuesday 12th of March 2013
i did not know their are andean bears. i enjoy your blog.
Lou L.
Tuesday 12th of March 2013
Thank you folks so much for the trip to the Amaru zoo. it was very interesting . perhaps i could go over to the local zoo and take some pics and send them to you if you could use them please let me know. TTYL.