Panaewa Rainforest Zoo & Gardens
Discover the only natural tropical rainforest zoo in the U.S., a free haven with 80+ species and lush gardens.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, perfect weather
Panaewa Rainforest Zoo & Gardens
Best Time
Fewer crowds, perfect weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the only natural tropical rainforest zoo in the U.S., a free haven with 80+ species and lush gardens.
"A small zoo with so much heart, bigger than we thought and definitely worth checking out!"
🚶♀️ Stroll Through Gardens
Enjoy the free-roaming peacocks and lush greenery. It's a beautiful rainforest walk!
💖 Support with Donations
As a free zoo, donations are vital. Consider contributing to help maintain this gem.
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.6 · 3,062 reviews
Type
Zoo
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Majestic White Tigers
Tiger Enclosure
Marvel at the striking beauty of Sriracha and Tzatziki, the zoo's famous white tigers. A truly captivating sight!
Lush Tropical Gardens
Throughout the Zoo
Wander through a vibrant 12-acre rainforest, alive with exotic plants and free-roaming peacocks.
Amphibian & Reptile House
Amphibian Area
Discover a fascinating collection of frogs, lizards, and axolotls in this well-maintained exhibit.
+1
Gentle Giants
Giant Anteater Enclosure
Observe the unique feeding habits of the zoo's impressive giant anteaters.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Admission & Donations
Best Time to Beat the Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Stroll Through Gardens
Enjoy the free-roaming peacocks and lush greenery. It's a beautiful rainforest walk!
💖 Support with Donations
As a free zoo, donations are vital. Consider contributing to help maintain this gem.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on paved paths through the rainforest.
💧 Stay Hydrated
The gift shop has drinks, but bringing your own water bottle is a good idea.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Stroll Through Gardens
Enjoy the free-roaming peacocks and lush greenery. It's a beautiful rainforest walk!
💖 Support with Donations
As a free zoo, donations are vital. Consider contributing to help maintain this gem.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on paved paths through the rainforest.
💧 Stay Hydrated
The gift shop has drinks, but bringing your own water bottle is a good idea.
📸 Capture the Moments
Don't forget your camera for the tigers, unique animals, and vibrant flora!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Panaewa Rainforest Zoo for its charming atmosphere, diverse animal collection, and beautiful rainforest setting. Many highlight the free admission as a major draw, though some acknowledge potential future fees. While generally well-maintained, a few reviewers wished for larger enclosures for some animals. +2
"Small zoo with so much heart. It ended up being bigger than we thought. No admission fee but they take donations. There were a good variety of animals and plants to look at with peacocks and peahens running free. We donated on the way in but would've gladly paid an admission fee. Definitely worth checking out if you're visiting the big island."
Tiffany Metzler
"Beautiful zoo! Well kept and clean. Is a free zoo, but has a gift shop (with a small variety of cold drinks and snacks) and you can also donate. Kids had a blast at the big park, there’s lots to see and learn here. Staff was helpful and kind. Wish some of the animals had bigger more space to roam. We will definitely be back!"
Jasmine C
"It is a small and family friendly place, animals are most types of rainforest animals. However, it starts to charge entrance fees, which is $12 for adult for non Hawaii residents. Local people is $7. Still a good place for kids! They have outdoor playground as well!"
Catherine Xin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Panaewa Rainforest Zoo is conveniently located just south of Hilo. It's a short drive, approximately 30 minutes, making it an easy addition to your Big Island itinerary. Many visitors combine it with trips to 'Akaka Falls or other Hilo attractions.
Yes, there is ample parking available at the Panaewa Rainforest Zoo, making it easy for visitors arriving by car.
Information on public transportation routes to the zoo can be limited. It's generally recommended to have a car for easier access to attractions on the Big Island, including Panaewa.
Yes, the zoo is designed to be wheelchair accessible, with paved paths throughout allowing visitors to navigate the grounds comfortably.
The zoo is located off Highway 11. Follow signs for the Panaewa Rainforest Zoo & Gardens. It's a straightforward drive from Hilo.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Panaewa Rainforest Zoo has historically been a free attraction, relying on donations. However, there have been discussions and potential plans to introduce admission fees for non-residents. It's best to check their official website or recent visitor information for the most current pricing.
The zoo is typically open daily, but hours can vary. It's advisable to check their official website or social media pages for the most up-to-date operating hours before your visit.
Absolutely! Donations are crucial for the zoo's operation. You can donate at the entrance, in the gift shop, or online. Many visitors feel the experience is well worth a donation.
While the zoo has been free, if admission fees are implemented, there may be discounted rates for Hawaii residents. Check for specific details regarding resident pricing.
If admission fees are in place, it's always a good idea to check if advance booking is recommended or required, especially during peak seasons. For now, it's generally a walk-in attraction.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can see a variety of rainforest animals including white tigers, giant anteaters, monkeys, various birds like cockatoos, reptiles, and amphibians. They also have axolotls on display.
Yes, there is an outdoor playground area that kids can enjoy, making it a great family-friendly destination.
Yes, the zoo provides picnic areas, making it a perfect spot for a family outing or a relaxing lunch amidst nature.
Panaewa Rainforest Zoo is a 12-acre reserve, offering a good amount of space to explore its diverse collection of animals and lush gardens.
Generally, zoos do not allow outside pets for the safety of the resident animals and to prevent the spread of diseases. It's best to leave your pets at home.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The zoo has a gift shop that offers a small selection of cold drinks and snacks. For a wider variety of dining options, you'll need to explore restaurants in nearby Hilo.
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own food and drinks to enjoy at the designated picnic areas within the zoo.
The gift shop typically offers basic refreshments like cold drinks and some snacks. It's not a full-service cafe, so plan accordingly.
Since dining options are limited to snacks at the gift shop, specific dietary options like vegan or vegetarian meals are unlikely to be available. Bringing your own food is recommended for specific dietary needs.
While the zoo itself has limited food options, the town of Hilo, just a short drive away, offers a wide array of restaurants and cafes to suit all tastes.
📸 📸 Photography
The white tiger enclosure, the lush garden paths with free-roaming peacocks, and the colorful amphibian exhibits offer fantastic photo opportunities.
Drones are generally not permitted in zoo environments to avoid disturbing the animals. Check specific zoo policies if you have questions.
Some animals, like the tigers, are quite visible. Others might be more elusive. Patience and good lighting conditions will help you capture great shots.
Typically, personal photography is allowed. However, flash photography might be discouraged in certain areas to avoid startling the animals.
A versatile zoom lens is useful for capturing animals from a distance. A wide-angle lens can be great for the lush rainforest scenery.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit