This is less a zoo and more a nature hike which happens to have zoo displays along it. The trail winds around the side of the mountain so that you can see everything without backtracking anywhere. Just follow the arrows. It is a bit steep in a few places. Probably best not to go just after a heavy rain. The trails are dirt and would be muddy and slippery.Many of the other reviews cover the animals. They are well-cared for and generally have good natural habitats. The other thing the zoo has is great views of the valley below. It's really better than the Mirador Turi, except that instead of the downtown the views center on the northern end of the city.Along the main highway the turn-off to the zoo is just after the Hospital del Rio. Look for the brown zoo signs along the side of the highway. From the turn-off it is 600 meters uphill. Do not even think of walking up it. Come by taxi or car. Closed on Mondays.
This zoo is built into the side of a mountain. "Visiting the zoo" means hiking up and down the mountain on dirt trails, over tree roots, on rotting boards, with no hand rails or hand rails that can help with balance but are too weak to hold much weight. It's probably a 2 hour hike if you don't stop to see the animals but, then, what's the point of it all? It took us (3 60-somethings) 3 1/2 hours, including some rest stops. Once you're in, you either have to finish the trail or backtrack to get out.Do NOT visit this zoo if you have mobility problems or if there have been recent rains and the ground is muddy.So, if you're ready for an active day, this zoo is a great place to go. It's a rescue for animals. Most are native to Ecuador but there are a few exceptions, including a group of African lions who were taken from a circus. The animal areas are carved out of the side of the mountain. We saw the lions gnawing on big chunks of dead cow, macaws sitting on open tree branches, and different primates running through tunnels of wire suspended above.No backpacks or food is allowed though no said anything about my water bottle. There is a small refreshment stand about 1/2 way through with restrooms there and near the entrance.We took a cab from Cuenca and the driver was not familiar with the zoo. $11 later and after getting directions from 4 different people, we finally arrived. Tell your taxi driver the zoo is near Hospital del Rio. The staff at the entrance will call a return cab for you that comes up, up, up to the parking lot. Another reviewer quoted an taxi fare of $3.50 from Cuenca but our return drop-off on the east side of Cuenca was $4.50. I'd guess a trip to the center of town to be around $6.50. There is a discount for seniors.
The hike through the zoo area is well organized, with up close experiences of a wide range of Andean species. Particularly interesting is the Andean condor, which we were lucky enough to see up close.
We visited the Amaru Zoo with our two very young children ages 1 and 3.5. It is true that the zoo path is steep at times but don't let this intimidate you! The trip is well worth it and is a rare chance to see some extremely endangered Andean animals such as the Andean bear. The animals are well cared for and many of the exhibits are quite creative-- for example the monkeys have access to wire tunnels that lead through the forests such that while you are hiking through the zoo you may find them overhead! Most important advice is to come prepared: appropriate shoes, walking sticks if you need them, water, sunscreen, hat, umbrella or rain jacket. Allow yourself plenty of time. If you are coming with children under the age of 4 bring a hiking backpack or similar. Our 3.5 year old hiked the whole zoo and had a wonderful time while I carried the 1 year old in an ergo baby carrier. The staff at the ticket office can help you call a taxi to get a ride back into town. They ask you not to bring food into the zoo although there is a small snack shop for chips and at times it appears also food. The monkeys will try to steal your snacks!
great animals, good representation of Ecuadorian regions. This is such a unique location for a zoo and the city views are well worth it.
Animals here are not in typical cages, but instead are in open hillside enclosures. You might not always see the animals you hoped for, but that is because the animals have the freedom to hide if they wish. Do NOT go if you are physically handicapped in any way, or right after a heavy rain. The path through the zoo is a very hilly, steep dirt path.
Put this on your list! Easy $3.50 taxi ride to this unbelievable Preserve. It's about a two to three hour hike on vined, natural trails. The exhibits are natural and huge. Obvious care for the animals. Signed guided thru this amazing Andean forest. Don't miss!
A really recommendable Zoo (which is rare in South America). Situated on the hillside at the boundary of Cuenca. A walk through the zoo takes about 2 hours. The Zoo is best reached by taxi.
wonderful zoo, but not for the infirm. Built onto the side of a mountain, the habitats are very natural, but there is a LOT of climbing over rough terrain
I always feel bad for the animals kept in zoos, especially in an environment that does not suit them. As far as zoos go, Amaru does a great job in providing as much of a natural environment and as much free range as possible while keeping animals and humans safe. I wish more zoos were designed like Amaru. As others have mentioned, this is an intense uphill hiking tour more than a zoo. I would not go during or after heavy rains. Be sure to provide at least 3-4 hours (maybe more with kids or elderly visitors) to view the entire zoo.