The Zoo-Aquarium in Madrid is one of the most exciting places to take the whole family. Combining a zoo and an aquarium, it offers a unique experience where young and old alike can explore terrestrial and aquatic fauna while learning about conservation and biodiversity. That’s why, last weekend, we decided to take the kids there. It was a chance for us to experience a fun and educational adventure. It’s a must-see in Madrid.
What is the Madrid Zoo-Aquarium?
Opened in 1972, the Madrid Zoo-Aquarium is one of the oldest and largest zoos in Europe. Set in the greenery of the Casa de Campo park, the site is impressive for its size and diversity. It’s a huge park where you can go for a walk, but you can also take a trip to an amusement park. Before being located in Casa del Campo, it was in the Retiro Park, where it was called the ‘Retiro Menagerie’. Cute, isn’t it?
Over its 20 hectares, it houses more than 6,000 animals representing 500 different species from all five continents. The zoo does more than just show animals: it is actively involved in conservation and reproduction programmes for endangered species, such as giant pandas. This educational and ecological mission makes it an ideal place to raise children’s awareness of the importance of protecting the environment.
Must-sees at the zoo
The zoo is full of wonders to discover. Here are the main attractions not to be missed:
- The giant pandas: The real stars of the zoo, these adorable animals attract thousands of visitors every year. They are also at the heart of a breeding programme in partnership with China.
- The African savannah: Lions, giraffes, rhinoceroses and zebras live in an environment recreated to replicate their natural habitat.
- Elephants: These majestic giants impress with their size and grace.
- The aviary: A huge structure housing exotic birds such as macaws, flamingos and vultures.
- Animal shows: Depending on the season, the zoo puts on shows featuring dolphins and sea lions, always a delight for children.
The aquarium: immersion in the underwater world
The aquarium, integrated into the site, is just as fascinating as the zoo. With its two million litres of water and hundreds of marine species, it offers a complete immersion in aquatic life.
- The underwater tunnel: Walk among the sharks and manta rays in this impressive tunnel, which gives the illusion of being in the heart of the ocean.
- Touch pools: Perfect for children, these areas allow them to interact with certain marine species, such as starfish and small fish.
- Feature species: From sharks to tropical fish and multicoloured coral, each tank tells a different story.
Activities not to be missed at Madrid Zoo and Aquarium?
At certain times of the day, Zoo Madrid offers a range of activities. First there are the animal shows: birds of prey, sea lions and the impressive dolphin show. We really enjoyed these shows, even though we’re not initially in favour of training wild animals. There’s a real sense of emotion between the handlers and the dolphins.
The zoo also offers photography sessions. We haven’t been there, but the animals concerned are sea lions, dolphins, reptiles, parrots and giraffes.
There are also lectures on the themes of these animals: gorilla, panda, aquarium, eagle. The Madrid zoo-aquarium is also very involved in animal protection, and in particular participates in a breeding programme.
You can also take part in educational activities on sea lions, exotic birds, birds of prey and dolphins.
Here are the timetables for the various educational activities:
| Activities | Monday to Friday | Saturday/ Sunday/ Public holidays |
| Sea Lions | 12.00 pm, 3.30 pm | 11.30am, 2pm, 4.30pm |
| Dolphins | 12.30pm, 5pm | 12.00, 13.30, 16.00, 18.00 |
| Predatory and exotic birds | 2.00 pm | 12.30pm, 3.30pm |
What the children liked best…
We didn’t spend the whole day there, as it was still very hot, so we didn’t see all the animals. However, we did spend a lot of time in theaquarium.
My daughter is a big fan of the cartoon Dory, so she really loved exploring this marine world in real life. It was a first for her. She also talked a lot about elephants.
For my son too, it was the aquarium that won the day, with its panoramic shark room. But he was particularly impressed by the dolphin show. He didn’t move for the whole show (around 20 minutes). He was fascinated and absorbed by what he was seeing. A really good time.
Practical information to help you prepare for your visit to Madrid Zoo.
Opening times: The zoo is generally open every day from 10 am to 6 pm in low season and until 8 pm in summer. Check the official website for exact opening times. You can gain access to the park up to 1 hour before the gates close.
Admission: Tickets cost around €25 for adults and €20 for children, with discounts for large families or online purchases. Annual passes are also available.
Access: Located in the Casa de Campo, the zoo is easily accessible by public transport. Take metro line 10 to Casa de Campo station or buses 33 and 55. If you’re coming by car, take the motorway, it’s very well signposted, exit at Casa de Campo! There is a free (shaded) car park in front of the park entrance.
Understanding public transport: how to get around Madrid by public transport.
Services: There are several restaurants, picnic areas and souvenir shops on site. Remember to bring water and snacks to avoid queuing.
Eating and drinking: In the park, you’ll find eating and drinking establishments all over the place with shaded terraces (but be warned, some restaurants may be closed depending on the season). There’s also a takeaway area where you can eat your picnic on site. It is located near the dolphin show area. Near this picnic area, there is a microwave for heating baby bottles and jars.
Tickets
Tickets cost €27.90 per adult aged between 8 and 64, and can be booked here.
For children aged 3 to 7, the price is €22.50. Admission to the Zoo is free for under-3s.
Parents with young children can also hire a caddy car for €11 a day.
It’s not an inexpensive activity, but the zoo-aquarium is a well-maintained place with quality shows.
And above all, it’s very well located, so it’s a great place to take a break for the kids on a city trip to Madrid.
Zoos are often seen in a negative light, but they are often very active in protecting certain endangered animal species.
Do you like zoos? Do you know Madrid Zoo?
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