Animal Activities in São Paulo

Explore the vibrant city of São Paulo while getting up close and personal with a variety of animals at these wonderful spots!

Parque Zoológico de São Paulo (São Paulo Zoo)

• Location: Avenida Professor Luciany Tupi, 1324 - Vila Parkway, Cidade Perdida, São Paulo - SP, 05679-140
• Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 9 AM to 5 PM; Monday closed

The São Paulo Zoo is home to over 3,000 animals representing 400 species. Here you can find a wide range of activities, such as the interactive feeding sessions, animal shows, and educational workshops for both children and adults. Don’t miss the Amazonian Forest area, where you’ll encounter some of Brazil’s most fascinating wildlife!

Jardim Zoológico de Itapetininga (Zoo of Itapetininga)

• Location: Estrada do Zoológico, 125 - Itapetininga, São Paulo - SP, 12480-970
• Hours: Monday to Sunday, 9 AM to 5 PM

Located approximately 80 km north of São Paulo city, the Jardim Zoológico de Itapetininga is an ideal day trip destination. This zoo houses a diverse range of animals, including tigers, lions, giraffes, and elephants. The park also features a petting zoo, where visitors can interact with domestic animals like goats and sheep.

Refúgio de Vida Selvagem da Cantareira (Cantareira Wildlife Refuge)

• Location: Rodovia Washington Luís - Km 36,5 - Santo Antônio do Pinhal, São Paulo - SP, 06972-840
• Hours: Monday to Sunday, 8 AM to 5 PM

The Cantareira Wildlife Refuge is a protected area of Atlantic Forest that serves as a sanctuary for various wildlife species. While you won’t find traditional zoo animals here, the refuge offers guided tours where visitors can observe native birds, monkeys, and other forest inhabitants in their natural habitat. Keep your eyes peeled for rare species like the Hyacinth Macaw and Jaguarondi!

Aquário de São Paulo (São Paulo Aquarium)

• Location: Avenida Professor Luciany Tupi, 1324 - Vila Parkway, Cidade Perdida, São Paulo - SP, 05679-140
• Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10 AM to 6 PM; Monday closed

Situated within the São Paulo Zoo, this aquarium is home to over 300 marine and freshwater species. The aquarium’s most popular exhibit showcases an Amazonian river ecosystem, complete with piranhas, electric eels, and other fascinating creatures. Don’t forget to check out the touch pool where you can interact with starfish, sea cucumbers, and other tide-pool dwellers!

Acaú River Eco-Tour (Ecological Tour of the Acaú River)

• Location: Ponto de Encontro - Barra Funda - CEP 06491-000 - São Paulo, SP
• Hours: Tours run from Tuesday to Sunday at various times throughout the day; reservations required

Embark on a unique eco-tour through the pristine waters of the Acaú River. This tour offers the opportunity to spot a variety of wildlife, such as capybaras, caimans, and numerous bird species. The knowledgeable guides will share interesting facts about the local ecosystem and its inhabitants during your journey.