Get to know Madrid Zoo Aquarium inside out

The Madrid Zoo Aquarium is the only zoo in Spain that houses panda bears. So don’t forget to say hello to pandas Jin Xi and Zhu Yu! Meet these bamboo-munching celebrities who, despite their adorable clumsiness, are part of a serious conservation effort. You might even spot a baby panda if you time your visit right!

If you thought your dog had cool tricks, prepare to be amazed by the intelligence and agility of dolphins and sea lions. These marine acrobats put on a breathtaking show, flaunting their ability to leap, spin, and even “dance” on command, highlighting the bond between the animals and their caretakers.

Ever wanted to walk through a shark tunnel? Well, now is your chance! The aquarium boasts a mesmerizing array of marine life, from neon-colored fish to the kind of sharks you wouldn’t want to meet in open water.

Cue the ‘Lion King’ soundtrack and transport yourself to the heart of Africa! This open-air enclosure gives you a front-row seat to towering giraffes, striped zebras, majestic rhinos, and those ever-chill elephants. Watch them roam, graze, and do their thing as they would in the wild.

From the fiery red pandas and elusive Siberian tigers to the gentle Asian elephants and rare Indian rhinos, this section is a treasure trove of biodiversity. Keep an eye out for the Père David’s deer, a species once extinct in the wild. The dense foliage and tranquil atmosphere make it feel like you’ve stepped into a real Asian jungle.

Think Europe is just old castles and great food? Think again. The European section features native species like lynxes, wolves, and brown bears. These animals are often overlooked but play a vital role in Europe’s ecosystems. The enclosures are designed to reflect their natural habitats, offering visitors a glimpse into the wild side of the continent.

Say hello to kangaroos, emus, and koalas—because Madrid is a little closer to Australia than you thought. The habitat is designed to mimic the arid landscapes of Australia, complete with eucalyptus trees and rocky outcrops. Learn about the unique adaptations of these marsupials and the challenges they face in the wild due to habitat loss and climate change.

This section is alive with color and energy, featuring toucans with their rainbow beaks, sleek jaguars prowling through the undergrowth, and anacondas coiled in the shadows. The exhibit also highlights the incredible biodiversity of the Amazon, with interactive displays that educate visitors about the importance of rainforest conservation.

If you like your animals scaly and a little intimidating, this is your stop. This chilling yet thrilling exhibit is home to some of the world’s most fascinating reptiles, including crocodiles, Komodo dragons, and pythons. Learn about their unique adaptations, from venomous bites to powerful constriction, and discover why these creatures are vital to their ecosystems.

Step inside a massive walk-through aviary where birds fly freely. You might find yourself shoulder-to-shoulder with parrots, macaws, flamingoes, jackass penguins, eagle owls, pelicans, and Egyptian vultures. Don’t be surprised if a feathered friend decides to perch nearby!

Perfect for younger visitors, the children’s zoo offers a hands-on experience with friendly farm animals like goats, pigs, and chickens. Children can pet them and learn about caring for these animals, fostering a love for animals.