Emperor Valley Zoo
Zoo Road, Port of Spain, Trinidad
Emperor Valley Zoo is Trinidad and Tobago’s largest zoo, located north of the Queen’s Park Savannah on the island of Trinidad. The zoo houses familiar animals, such as lions and giraffes, and also showcases flora and fauna unique to the area, including crab-eating raccoons, boa constrictors, and Trinidad motmots—an endemic bird species.
The Basics
Founded in 1947 and opened in 1952, the zoo was named after the indigenous blue Emperor butterfly (also known as Morpho butterfly) and has undergone major upgrades supported by the Zoological Society of Trinidad and Tobago. The seven-acre (2.8-hectare) property features manicured grounds, meandering footpaths, and interactive exhibits that include flamingo ponds, hummingbird gardens, and special exhibits.
Things to Know Before You Go
The zoo is great for families with small children.
Wear good walking shoes to cover the grounds comfortably.
In addition to mammals, birds, reptiles, and fish from Trinidad and Tobago, the zoo also cares for animals from the adjacent South American continent.
The zoo is wheelchair and stroller accessible.
How to Get There
Emperor Valley Zoo is located north of the Queen’s Park Savannah and west of the Royal Botanic Gardens in the capital city of Trinidad and Tobago, Port of Spain. The zoo is best accessed by car or taxi. From the main city center, it is roughly a five-minute drive, but Port of Spain is notorious for its traffic, so expect a short delay.
When to Get There
The Emperor Valley Zoo is open daily from 8am to 5:30pm. Visit in the morning for a less crowded and quieter zoo experience.
Explore Port of Spain
The capital city of Trinidad and Tobago, Port of Spain is a buzzing city that blends its vibrant past with modern urbanity. Stroll its lush botanical gardens; visit landmarks such as the Red House, the Hall of Justice, Trinity Cathedral, and Woodford Square; and enjoy tasty street food. The city also hosts Trinidad’s world-famous Carnival, held annually the Monday and Tuesday before Ash Wednesday.
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