Lisbon Zoo

Lisbon Zoo, founded in 1884, is a zoological garden in Lisbon, Portugal, housing about 2,000 animals from more than 300 species. Its mission includes conservation, breeding of endangered species, scientific research, and educational and recreational activities. The zoo attracts roughly 800,000 visitors each year.

Don't miss

• Look for the zoo's conservation and breeding programs for endangered species, a core part of its mission.
• Explore the grounds designed by architect Raul Lino, who was commissioned in 1912 to develop the gardens and animal facilities.
• The 1892 winter damage that helped prompt the zoo's relocation two years later.

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Lisbon Zoo

Cheapest way inLisbon Walking Tour - The Perfect Introduction to the City4.9★ · 670 travelers~3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$1 per personSee dates →Most bookedLisbon City Center Tour - The Unmissable Lisbon5★ · 24,780 travelers~3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$2 per personSee dates →Private & flexibleLisbon Airport to Hotel in Lisbon (or vice versa)5★ · 74 travelersFree cancellationFrom$99 per personSee dates →

Know before you go

• The zoo opened in 1884 and moved to its present site in 1905.
• Architect Raul Lino was commissioned in 1912 to redesign the gardens and animal facilities.
• Conservation, endangered-species breeding, research, and education form the institution's stated mission.

A bit of history

The idea for a zoo in Lisbon emerged in 1882, as no zoo existed on the Iberian Peninsula at the time. Dr. Van Der Laan, Dr. Sousa Martins, and May Figueira, who owned the largest aviary in Portugal, spearheaded the project. After traveling to European zoos for inspiration, they secured financing from civil engineer Lino Bento de Sousa, the 2nd Baron of Kessler, and King Fernando II. A deed was prepared on 5 September 1883, and construction began. The zoo opened on 28 May 1884 with 1,127 animals, some donated by the Portuguese royal family. In its first year, it drew 170,000 visitors. To stabilize revenue after a visitor drop, the zoo introduced paid boat trips on its lake. In 1892, a severe winter caused damage, and the deaths of two park owners led to a move in 1894 to Palhavã. The zoo reopened there on 13 May 1894 and began selling and exporting excess animals, with free transport provided by the National Navigation Company. A new tram line in 1902 boosted attendance. In 1905, the lease ended, and the zoo moved to its current location at Quinta das Laranjeiras in Sete Rios. In 1912, architect Raul Lino was commissioned to redesign the gardens and animal facilities.