Guadeloupe Zoo

The basics

Many travelers visit Guadeloupe Zoo independently instead of with a guide. There’s no need to worry about getting lost, as the best way to explore the zoo is to follow the marked route along the boardwalk paths. You can easily spend 2–3 hours at the zoo; maps are available to ensure you don’t miss your favorite animals. It’s also wise to check the daily schedule to find out when the caretaker presentations are.

Things to know before you go

• Child-friendly activities in the zoo include slides, tunnels, and mini walks in the trees.

• You can visit the zoo on rainy days; ponchos are available.

• Picnics are prohibited, but there’s an on-site restaurant.

• The zoo is accessible for travelers with reduced mobility and strollers.

• The treetop walk is optional—it takes around 20–25 minutes, and once you enter this bridge, you can’t turn back.

How to get there

The most convenient way to reach the zoo is by car. You can drive and use the complimentary on-site parking or take a taxi. The zoo is situated within Parc des Mamelles, on Route de la Traversee, linking Petit-Bourg to Pointe-Noire. Look out for signs directing you to Parc des Mamelles or the Zoological and Botanical Park of Guadeloupe to guide you to the zoo.

When to get there

The park is open daily, even on public holidays, from morning until early evening. The final time to enter is usually 1.5 hours before closing (typically around 4:30pm). If you want to visit the zoo when crowd numbers are lower, come in the morning. This time of day is particularly beautiful with the morning mist.

Wildlife at Guadeloupe Zoo

Spanning nearly 10 acres (4 hectares), the Guadeloupe Zoo is home to over 450 animals, including mammals such as jaguars, lemurs, red pandas, ocelots, and raccoons. It also houses a colorful array of birds, including toucans and parrots, along with reptiles such as anacondas and the impressive Seychelles giant tortoise, not to mention various arthropods.