Parque Zoológico del Centenario - a giraffe standing next to a stone wall
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Parque Zoológico del Centenario

4.6
·29k reviews·Mérida, Mexico

A free, family-friendly zoo and park in Merida, Yucatan, featuring diverse animals, a historic train, and ample shade.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures

CrowdLow
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Parque Zoológico del Centenario - a giraffe standing next to a stone wall

Parque Zoológico del Centenario

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A free, family-friendly zoo and park in Merida, Yucatan, featuring diverse animals, a historic train, and ample shade.

4.6
(29k reviews)

"Amazing Free Zoo – A Fun and Family-Friendly Day Out!"

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TIP

🎯 Free Admission Alert!

Entry to the zoo is completely free, making it a fantastic budget-friendly option for everyone.

⏰ Arrive After 9 AM

The park opens at 8 AM, but the zoo exhibits typically open at 9 AM. Vendors start opening around 8:30 AM.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Diverse Animal Exhibits

Diverse Animal Exhibits

Throughout the zoo

See tigers, giraffes, hippos, primates, birds, and more in enclosures that offer a mix of traditional and open-space designs.

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The Centennial Train

The Centennial Train

Zoo grounds

A charming, historic train ride that circles the zoo, perfect for families and a budget-friendly way to see more.

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Shaded Park and Playgrounds

Shaded Park and Playgrounds

Park grounds

Beyond the zoo, enjoy a spacious park with ample shade, playgrounds, and picnic spots for a relaxing family day.

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Iguana Encounters

Iguana Encounters

Throughout the park

Observe iguanas freely roaming the grounds, a unique and common sight that adds to the park's charm.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Free Admission, But Plan Your Timing

Enjoy this amazing zoo for free! However, be aware that while the park opens at 8 AM, the zoo itself typically opens at 9 AM. Vendors start setting up around 8:30 AM, but many are still closed. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends. Reddit

Embrace the Shade and Hydration

Merida can get hot! The Parque Zoológico del Centenario offers plenty of shaded areas and benches, making it comfortable for a few hours. Bring water and sunscreen, especially if visiting during midday. Instagram

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Crowd
Low
When
Tuesday - Sunday, 9 AM - 5 PM
Why
Zoo operating hours
Crowd
Medium
When
Evening (special events)
Why
Unique nocturnal experience
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Para las personas nocturnas Playera: @Killer Quake #centenario #merida #yucatan #mexico #zoologico
@vicky_wolff
61.9K likes • 578.7K views

🎯 Free Admission Alert!

Entry to the zoo is completely free, making it a fantastic budget-friendly option for everyone. TikTokReddit

⏰ Arrive After 9 AM

The park opens at 8 AM, but the zoo exhibits typically open at 9 AM. Vendors start opening around 8:30 AM. Reddit

Cuánto se gasta en el Zoológico de Mérida. . . . . #zoologicomerida #centenariomerida #peninsulero #merida #yucatan #actividadesgratismerida
@soyelpeninsulero
22.4K likes • 379.8K views
Descubre el Parque Zoológico del Centenario 🐒 Este y otros atractivos podrás visitar si decides invertir en el estado de #yucatan 🏝️Infórmate de nuestros desarrollos en Native Master Broker ✨ #lotesdeinversión #conoceyucatán #inversioninteligente
native.mid
24 likes • 1.3K views

💧 Stay Hydrated & Shaded

Merida is hot! Utilize the abundant shade and bring water. Consider a picnic to enjoy in the park. Instagram

🚂 Don't Miss the Train!

The historic Centennial Train is a must-do for a fun and easy way to explore the zoo for just one peso. TikTok+1

🦁🦒🦛Nuestro Parque Zoológico del Centenario cuenta con una gran diversidad de especies de animales. ¡Visítalos de martes a domingo de 9:00 am a 5:00 pm!. 📱💻 Más información: http://merida.gob.mx/parquesdeconservacion/centenario/atracciones.phpx
ayuntamerida_
35 likes • 1.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Free Admission Alert!

Entry to the zoo is completely free, making it a fantastic budget-friendly option for everyone. TikTokReddit

⏰ Arrive After 9 AM

The park opens at 8 AM, but the zoo exhibits typically open at 9 AM. Vendors start opening around 8:30 AM. Reddit

💧 Stay Hydrated & Shaded

Merida is hot! Utilize the abundant shade and bring water. Consider a picnic to enjoy in the park. Instagram

🚂 Don't Miss the Train!

The historic Centennial Train is a must-do for a fun and easy way to explore the zoo for just one peso. TikTok+1

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to see all the animals and explore the park. Instagram

📸 Capture the Iguanas

Keep an eye out for the iguanas that roam freely; they make for great photo opportunities! Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(29k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the Parque Zoológico del Centenario being an amazing, free, and family-friendly destination. The variety of animals, the charming historic train, and the abundant shade make it a delightful experience. While enclosures are older, animals appear well-cared for, and the free admission is a major draw.

"This zoo has a lot of animals and isnt just a zoo. It is a park for the little ones too. There are a lot of vendors for food and plenty of bathrooms. Restrooms are free but tips are asked for at the door.

Most important thing I can say is that alot of the reviews and write-ups online are incorrect or deceiving. All that I saw said the zoo opens at 8AM, that is incorrect. The zoo opens at 9AM on most days amd the park opens at 8AM. The vendors were starting to open around 8:30 for food but most were still closed when I left around 1030 on a Wednesday.

The entire time I was there there was someone cleaning enclosures. The enclosures are old zoo style, maybe think private collection? There are some indictments for some of the animals and others that you would find roaming the plains they basically have an open area to move around in.

I had a great experience and the animals on display seemed happy and well maintained."

Justin Wallace

"Amazing Free Zoo – A Fun and Family-Friendly Day Out!

We recently visited this zoo and had an absolutely wonderful experience. One of the best things about it is that admission is completely free, making it a fantastic option for families, students, or anyone looking for an affordable day of fun.

The zoo offers a wide variety of animals to see, from exotic species to local favorites. There are plenty of exhibits and enclosures that are well-maintained and engaging for visitors of all ages. Kids especially enjoyed seeing the animals up close, and there were plenty of opportunities for photos and learning.

In addition to the animals, the zoo features many food vendors offering a range of delicious snacks and meals, so you’ll never go hungry during your visit. Whether you're craving a quick bite or a sit-down meal, there's plenty of choice.

A standout feature is the free train ride that takes visitors around the zoo. It’s a great way to cover more ground and enjoy the scenery without getting too tired, especially for little ones or those who prefer a more relaxed experience.

The layout of the zoo is thoughtfully designed, with lots of shaded areas scattered throughout the grounds. This was a huge plus on a warm day, as it kept us comfortable and protected from the sun. There are also many benches and picnic spots if you want to take a break or enjoy a packed lunch.

Another important convenience is the abundance of free bathrooms, which made our visit much more comfortable and hassle-free. It’s always nice to see such thoughtful amenities provided for visitors.

Overall, this zoo exceeded our expectations. It’s a clean, well-organized, and family-friendly destination that offers a lot for free. We left with great memories and a desire to return soon. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a fun, educational, and budget-friendly outing!"

Justin V

"Wonderful Zoo with LOTS of shade!! Both my kids (9 & 2) had a great time here.

The animals overall look like they are in good health. My toddler even wanted some of the food that the birds had 😅 (fruit salad).

I appreciate the playgrounds and food stalls. Makes it easy to spend a few hours here. I came on a weekday both times so it wasn’t very busy."

Kristina C

What People Like

Free admission
Variety of animals
Shaded park areas

What People Dislike

Older enclosure style

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Parque Zoológico del Centenario is located in Merida, Yucatan. It's accessible by local transport or taxi. Many visitors find it easy to reach within the city. TikTokInstagram

While specific parking details aren't widely shared, the zoo is centrally located, suggesting public transport or ride-sharing might be convenient options. Instagram

Yes, the zoo sometimes offers special nocturnal visits, allowing people who work or study during the day to experience it. Check for event announcements. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission to the zoo is completely free! This makes it an incredibly accessible and budget-friendly attraction for all visitors. TikTokReddit

The park generally opens at 8 AM, but the zoo exhibits typically open at 9 AM and close around 5 PM. It's open Tuesday through Sunday. InstagramReddit

No advance booking is required as admission is free. You can simply show up during operating hours. TikTok

While admission is free, the popular train ride has a nominal fee, usually around one peso, making it very affordable. TikTok+1

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can see a variety of animals including tigers, giraffes, hippos, primates, birds, and more. Iguanas are also commonly seen roaming freely. Instagram+3

Absolutely! It's a very family-friendly place with playgrounds, a free train ride, and animals that kids love. The shaded areas are a big plus. InstagramReddit

You can walk through the zoo in about 3 hours if you want to see everything. The train ride helps cover more ground efficiently. Reddit

Yes, there are plenty of free restrooms available throughout the park, which is a great convenience for visitors. Reddit

The enclosures are described as older, zoo-style, with some offering open areas for animals to roam. They appear to be well-maintained. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there are many food vendors offering a range of snacks and meals. You can also bring your own food for a picnic. Reddit

Bringing your own food and drinks is a great idea, especially for picnics in the shaded park areas. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the diverse animals, the historic Centennial Train, and the freely roaming iguanas. The park's green spaces also offer scenic shots. TikTokInstagram

Photography is generally allowed, but always be mindful of the animals' well-being and avoid disturbing them. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Parque Zoológico del Centenario is a dream for families! With free admission, it's incredibly budget-friendly. Kids will love seeing the diverse animals, from big cats to primates. TikTokReddit Don't miss the historic Centennial Train for a fun ride around the zoo – it only costs one peso! TikTok+1 The park also boasts playgrounds and plenty of shaded areas, perfect for escaping the Merida sun. InstagramReddit Pack a picnic or grab snacks from the numerous vendors for a full day of fun. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

This zoo is a gem for budget-conscious travelers. Admission is completely free, allowing you to experience a wide variety of animals without spending a dime on entry. TikTokReddit The only minor cost is the one-peso train ride, which is an absolute steal for the experience it offers. TikTok+1 You can save even more by bringing your own food and drinks to enjoy in the park's shaded picnic areas. Reddit It's a fantastic way to enjoy a full day of entertainment and exploration in Merida without breaking the bank. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Photographers will find plenty of subjects at the Parque Zoológico del Centenario. Capture the diverse animal species in their enclosures, from majestic giraffes to playful monkeys. Instagram+2 A unique opportunity awaits with the iguanas that roam freely throughout the park, offering candid shots. Instagram Don't forget to photograph the historic Centennial Train as it chugs along, adding a touch of nostalgia to your portfolio. TikTok The park's green spaces and unique murals also provide interesting backdrops. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Historic Centennial Train

The Centennial Train is a beloved attraction at the Parque Zoológico del Centenario, celebrating 70 years of service. For a minimal fee, typically just one peso, visitors can enjoy a scenic ride around the zoo grounds. TikTok+1 This charming train is particularly popular with families, offering a fun and easy way to see more of the park without extensive walking. It's a nostalgic experience that adds to the overall appeal of the zoo. Instagram

Many visitors recall fond memories of riding this train, making it a highlight of their visit. It's not just a mode of transport but a part of the zoo's history and charm, contributing to its reputation as a family-friendly destination. TikTok

A Free Family-Friendly Oasis

The Parque Zoológico del Centenario stands out for its free admission, making it an exceptional value for visitors. This policy ensures that everyone, regardless of budget, can enjoy a day out with family and friends. TikTokReddit The park is designed with families in mind, featuring playgrounds and ample shaded areas that provide comfort from the Merida heat. InstagramReddit

Beyond the zoo exhibits, the expansive park offers a relaxing environment for picnics and leisurely strolls. The presence of numerous food vendors means you can easily grab a bite to eat, or you can pack your own lunch to enjoy in one of the many green spaces. Reddit The combination of free entry, diverse attractions, and thoughtful amenities makes it a top choice for an affordable and enjoyable day in Merida. Reddit

Animal Welfare and Enclosures

Reviews suggest that the animals at Parque Zoológico del Centenario appear to be well-maintained and in good health. Reddit While some enclosures are described as older, zoo-style, there are also indications of open areas where animals can move more freely. Reddit The commitment to animal care is evident, with consistent cleaning of enclosures noted by visitors. Reddit

This approach balances the traditional zoo experience with efforts to provide a more naturalistic environment for some species. The visible care and the animals' apparent contentment contribute to a positive visitor experience, reinforcing the zoo's reputation as a responsible and engaging attraction. Reddit

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