San Martín Zoo
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San Martín Zoo

4.4
·2k reviews·Baños de Agua Santa, Ecuador

Discover diverse wildlife in naturalistic habitats at San Martín Zoo, a captivating destination in Baños de Agua Santa, Ecuador.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

More active animals, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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San Martín Zoo

San Martín Zoo

Best Time

Weekday mornings

More active animals, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover diverse wildlife in naturalistic habitats at San Martín Zoo, a captivating destination in Baños de Agua Santa, Ecuador.

4.4
(2k reviews)

"The zoo is really surprising because it seems small when you enter but it certainly is not small!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Ask for a Tour Guide

Enhance your experience by requesting a tour guide for deeper insights into the animals.

💰 Be Mindful of Parking Fees

Parking is usually free or inexpensive; question unofficial requests for payment.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Diverse Animal Encounters

Diverse Animal Encounters

Various enclosures

See colorful birds, playful monkeys, a rare puma, and even a capybara. A true delight for animal lovers!

Spacious, Naturalistic Habitats

Spacious, Naturalistic Habitats

Throughout the zoo

Animals thrive in beautifully designed, spacious enclosures that mimic their natural environments.

Conservation and Education Focus

Conservation and Education Focus

Information boards and staff interactions

Learn about wildlife conservation efforts and animal habitats from knowledgeable and passionate staff.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience

While San Martín Zoo is enjoyable year-round, consider visiting during weekdays to avoid larger crowds. Mornings often offer more active animals. Check their social media for any special events or feeding times that might enhance your visit. TikTok

Navigating Parking and Potential Fees

Parking is available outside the zoo and is generally not expensive. However, be aware that some visitors have reported unofficial requests for parking fees from employees, especially if you appear to be a tourist. It's advisable to clarify any parking charges with official staff. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
More active animals, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
Good for observing sleeping animals
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

@PARQUE AVENTURA SAN MARTIN #bañosdeaguasanta #Ecuador #desportesextremos #deportesdeaventura #canopy #planesecuador #planesdivertidos #planesenpareja #viajaporecuador #locuentoentiktok #recomendaciones #aventura
@crisentiktok_
41.8K likes • 714.1K views

🎯 Ask for a Tour Guide

Enhance your experience by requesting a tour guide for deeper insights into the animals. Reddit

💰 Be Mindful of Parking Fees

Parking is usually free or inexpensive; question unofficial requests for payment. Reddit

#zoologico #baños #quito #ecuador #viral #fyp
@http.soydaya
15.5K likes • 220.3K views
El Eco Zoológico San Martín siempre tiene las puertas abiertas para todo lo que sume en el bienestar de nuestros animales, estamos muy agradecidos por esta increíble experiencia para todos, que tengan un buen viaje y les esperamos pronto 😉 ✈️. ¡SOMOS MÁS QUE UN ZOO! 🌍💚 #faunasilvestre #pasantias #bañosecuador
zoosanmartin
44 likes • 1.4K views

📸 Capture Amazing Wildlife

Bring your camera to photograph the wide variety of exotic animals in their naturalistic habitats. TikTok

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes to explore the zoo. Reddit

Nuestra hermosa Danta ❤️#leones #colmillos #amor #amoranimal #zoo #viral #foryou #paratiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii #bañosdeaguasanta #ecuador #visitanos #lentejas #tiktokviral
@zoo_vida_exotica
13.7K likes • 316.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Ask for a Tour Guide

Enhance your experience by requesting a tour guide for deeper insights into the animals. Reddit

💰 Be Mindful of Parking Fees

Parking is usually free or inexpensive; question unofficial requests for payment. Reddit

📸 Capture Amazing Wildlife

Bring your camera to photograph the wide variety of exotic animals in their naturalistic habitats. TikTok

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes to explore the zoo. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise San Martín Zoo for its diverse collection of animals housed in spacious, naturalistic enclosures, offering an engaging and educational experience, especially for families. While the zoo itself is highly recommended, some guests have noted issues with unofficial parking fee requests from employees, which can detract from an otherwise positive visit.

"I think they need like a tour guide inside the zoo for better experience. But besides that they have beautiful animals at the zoo. I love it."

Tony Lucciano

"Eco Zoológico San Martín in Ecuador is a must-visit for tourists seeking an exceptional wildlife experience. The park is beautifully designed, featuring spacious enclosures that allow you to observe a wide variety of animals in a naturalistic setting. The knowledgeable staff provide fascinating insights into the animals and their habitats, enhancing the visit. The park's commitment to conservation and education is evident throughout, making it both a visually stunning and informative experience. For an unforgettable day out in Ecuador, Eco Zoológico San Martín is an excellent choice."

Kelly Pastuizaca

"The zoo is really surprising because it seems small when you enter but it certainly is not small!
There is a big variety of animals to see, from all kinds.
The tickets aren't expensive and there is parking outside the zoo.
Recommended for families with kids that love animals"

Itamar Naim

What People Like

Beautifully designed enclosures
Variety of animals
Educational focus

What People Dislike

Unofficial parking fees

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

San Martín Zoo is located in Baños de Agua Santa, Ecuador. Many visitors arrive in Baños via bus from major cities like Quito or Ambato. From Baños town, you can take a taxi or a local bus to reach the zoo. Some tour packages to Baños may also include transportation to the zoo. TikTok

Yes, there is parking available outside the zoo. While generally not expensive, be aware of potential unofficial requests for parking fees from employees. It's best to clarify any charges with official staff. Reddit

While Baños de Agua Santa is a popular day trip destination from Quito, visiting the zoo might make it a very packed day. It's often better to plan for at least an overnight stay in Baños to fully enjoy the zoo and other attractions. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The tickets for San Martín Zoo are not expensive, making it an affordable option for families and travelers. Specific pricing can vary, so it's always a good idea to check their official social media or website for the most current rates. Reddit

The zoo is generally open daily, but specific hours can change. It's recommended to check their social media pages or contact them directly for the most up-to-date opening and closing times before your visit. Instagram

Typically, you can purchase tickets upon arrival at the zoo. However, during peak seasons or holidays, it might be advisable to check if advance booking is an option to ensure entry, especially if you are part of a group. TikTok

While specific discount information isn't widely publicized, it's always worth inquiring at the ticket counter about potential discounts for students, seniors, or group visits. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

San Martín Zoo boasts a diverse collection of animals, including colorful birds, monkeys, a rare puma, capybaras, and even a bear. Visitors have reported seeing a wide variety from all kinds, making it an exciting experience for animal lovers. TikTokReddit

Absolutely! San Martín Zoo is highly recommended for families with kids who love animals. The zoo is entertaining and enjoyable, with a good variety of animals to keep children engaged and curious. Reddit

The zoo might seem small when you first enter, but it's surprisingly not small at all! It offers a substantial variety of animals and exhibits to explore, providing a fulfilling visit. Reddit

Yes, photography is encouraged at San Martín Zoo. It's a great opportunity to capture images of the exotic animals in their naturalistic habitats. Remember to be respectful of the animals and avoid flash photography if it might disturb them. TikTok

Some visitors suggest that having a tour guide would enhance the experience. While not always explicitly advertised, it's worth inquiring at the entrance or information desk if guided tours are offered or if staff can provide more in-depth information. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Information about on-site dining facilities is limited. It's advisable to check with the zoo directly or bring your own snacks and water, especially if you plan to spend several hours exploring. Reddit

Generally, most zoos allow visitors to bring their own food and non-alcoholic beverages. This can be a good option for families or those on a budget. Confirm their specific policy upon arrival. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The best photography spots are near the enclosures of the more visually striking animals like the puma, capybara, and colorful birds. The naturalistic settings of the enclosures also provide great backdrops. TikTokReddit

While general photography is allowed, avoid using flash photography, especially for animals that might be sensitive to it. Always be mindful of posted signs or staff instructions regarding photography. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

San Martín Zoo is a fantastic destination for families. The variety of animals, from playful monkeys to majestic big cats, will captivate children's imaginations. The zoo's spacious enclosures offer a good viewing experience, and the educational aspect means kids can learn about different species and their habitats. Reddit Remember to bring comfortable shoes for little feet, as there's a lot to explore. Consider packing snacks and drinks to keep energy levels high throughout the visit. Reddit

To make the most of your family outing, try to visit during weekday mornings when the zoo is less crowded and animals are often more active. If possible, inquire about any kid-friendly activities or feeding demonstrations that might be happening during your visit. The zoo's commitment to providing a naturalistic environment for its animals also contributes to a more enriching and engaging experience for young visitors. Instagram

🎒 Budget Travelers

San Martín Zoo offers great value for money, with tickets described as 'not expensive.' Reddit This makes it an accessible attraction for budget-conscious travelers exploring Baños de Agua Santa. You can further save by packing your own snacks and water, as on-site dining options might be limited or pricier. Reddit

Consider visiting during the week to avoid potential weekend crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience. While parking is available, be aware of the unofficial parking fee issue mentioned by some visitors; politely question any unexpected charges. Combining your zoo visit with other free or low-cost activities in Baños, like exploring waterfalls or enjoying the town's atmosphere, can create a fulfilling and affordable itinerary. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The San Martín Zoo Experience: More Than Just Animals

San Martín Zoo is celebrated for its commitment to providing animals with spacious, naturalistic habitats. Visitors often remark on how the zoo, despite potentially appearing small from the entrance, offers a surprisingly vast array of species. This thoughtful design allows for a more immersive experience, where you can observe animals like colorful birds, playful monkeys, a rare puma, and even a capybara in environments that closely resemble their natural homes. Reddit The zoo's dedication to conservation and education is also a significant aspect, with knowledgeable staff eager to share insights into the animals' lives and the importance of protecting wildlife. Instagram

Many visitors find the zoo to be a highly enjoyable and educational outing, particularly for families with children. The variety of animals ensures that there's something to capture everyone's interest, from the majestic to the amusing. While the zoo itself is a highlight, it's important to be aware of practicalities like parking. Although parking is usually straightforward, some guests have encountered unofficial requests for fees, so it's wise to confirm any charges with official personnel to ensure a smooth visit. Reddit

For those looking to maximize their visit, consider inquiring about guided tours. While not always a standard offering, a guide can significantly deepen your understanding and appreciation of the zoo's inhabitants and its conservation mission. This blend of engaging animal encounters, educational opportunities, and a focus on naturalistic living makes San Martín Zoo a noteworthy destination for wildlife enthusiasts. Reddit

Exploring Baños de Agua Santa: Beyond the Zoo

San Martín Zoo is nestled within the vibrant adventure hub of Baños de Agua Santa, Ecuador. This town is renowned for its adrenaline-pumping activities and stunning natural landscapes. Visitors often combine a trip to the zoo with other popular attractions in the area, such as the famous swing at the End of the World (Casa del Árbol), exhilarating canopy tours over the Pastaza River, and exploring the numerous waterfalls like Pailón del Diablo. TikTok+1

Baños offers a wide range of activities catering to various interests, from thrilling adventures to more relaxed explorations of its thermal baths and scenic viewpoints. The town itself is charming, with a lively atmosphere and plenty of opportunities to sample local cuisine. Many tour operators in Baños offer packages that can include visits to the zoo along with other key attractions, making it convenient for travelers looking to experience the best of the region. TikTok

When planning your visit to San Martín Zoo, consider dedicating at least a full day, or ideally an overnight stay, in Baños to fully immerse yourself in the area's offerings. This allows ample time to enjoy the zoo at a leisurely pace and still have plenty of daylight to explore the surrounding natural beauty and adventure sports that make Baños de Agua Santa such a popular destination. TikTok

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