Animals circulating through enclosures free of fences and with integration between species, visitors circulating through tunnels, corridors and walkways... After almost two years of works involving the restoration and expansion of the structure that belonged to the old Jardim Zoológico da Quinta, the BioParque do Rio. The new zoo can be visited daily from 12pm to 5pm (special opening hours and last entry to the circuit at 4pm) and tickets can be purchased exclusively via the website (https://ingressos.bioparquedorio.com.br ).
“We want to transform the BioParque into a reference place for the conservation and protection of our animals”, stated Pablo Morbis, president of the Cataratas group, responsible for managing the space, which will house approximately 140 different species, of which 33% are at risk of extinction. .
Among the new visiting areas are the Reptile Village, with alligators and snakes; the Primate Island, with several species that belong to the Amazon; the Kings of the Jungle sector, with lions, jaguars and tigers; the African Savanna, with zebras, giraffes and hippos; the Pollinators, where visitors can come into contact with small insects and butterflies, among others; and the Fazendinha, a place where it will be possible to pet and feed the animals, in a supervised manner.
“The objective is to ensure that animals can live in an environment as close as possible to what would be in nature”, says Cláudio Maas, one of the technical biologists responsible for BioParque. “We went from being an exhibition zoo to becoming a conservation center. Visitors will be surprised by a first-world environment, with extensive maintenance of animal spaces and constant human care. We have put together a safe, pleasant place that resembles the great ecoparks in the world”, he added.
Values The individual price is R$ 39.75, for the standard fare. Children and students up to 21 years old, seniors and people with disabilities can pay half price for R$ 19.87. For those up to two years and 11 months, there is no charge. Due to the pandemic, audience capacity is limited to 20% of the total. The use of a mask is mandatory, as is maintaining a minimum distance of two meters, among other preventive measures. BioParque also offers a membership plan, with an individual cost of R$ 80 per year. The holder can include up to seven dependents for an additional R$ 60 each. Payment can be paid in up to 12 interest-free installments. Members have unlimited access to the park throughout the year and a 10% discount at the store, cafes and restaurants on site, among other benefits. So, are we going to enjoy this visit with the family? ** photo credit: Rio City Hall