Park of the Legends Zoo

Park of the Legends Zoo offers families an incredible opportunity to see native Peruvian wildlife from both the Amazon rainforest and Andes mountains, all within Lima's city limits. With interactive animal encounters, educational programs, and over 2,000 animals representing 200 species, this expansive zoo provides an exciting full-day adventure that combines learning with unforgettable wildlife experiences.

• ✓Amazon zone featuring pink river dolphins, giant river otters, anacondas, and colorful tropical birds native to Peru
• ✓Andean animals including llamas, alpacas, vicuñas, spectacled bears, and condors that kids can learn about up close
• ✓Interactive feeding experiences and scheduled animal demonstrations throughout the day
• ✓Archaeological replicas of ancient Peruvian ruins scattered throughout the grounds, combining wildlife with cultural education
• ✓Coastal marine exhibits with Humboldt penguins and sea lions performing during feeding times

1. 1.Arrive right at 9:00 AM opening to beat the Lima heat and crowds, especially on weekends when local families visit. The animals are most active in the cooler morning hours.
2. 2.Bring soles (Peruvian currency) in small bills for snacks and souvenirs, as many vendors don't accept cards or US dollars. ATMs are available near the entrance.
3. 3.Wear comfortable walking shoes as the zoo is quite large (over 100 acres), and pack sunscreen, hats, and refillable water bottles since Lima's sun is strong even on cloudy days.
4. 4.Download a photo of the zoo map on your phone before visiting, as Wi-Fi can be unreliable. The zoo is divided into three zones: Coast, Andes, and Amazon.
5. 5.The sea lion feeding shows are a huge hit with kids. Check the schedule at the entrance and plan your route to catch at least one demonstration.

Visit on weekday mornings (Tuesday through Thursday) between 9:00 AM and noon for the smallest crowds and most active animals. Avoid Sundays and Peruvian holidays when the zoo gets very busy with local families. The dry season (May through October) offers the most pleasant weather for walking.

Entry fees are very affordable at approximately $4-5 USD per person (adults pay slightly more than children). Food stalls and restaurants are available inside, but many families bring packed lunches to enjoy in the picnic areas.

The zoo is open year-round, but visit during Lima's dry season (May to October) for the best weather. The wet season (December to March) brings occasional rain and more humidity. Holiday periods like Peruvian Independence Day (late July) and Christmas week can be extremely crowded.

The nearby Centro Comercial Plaza San Miguel shopping center (5 minutes away) has familiar chains like KFC and Bembos (Peru's popular burger chain) with kid menus. For a local experience, try a cevicheria in San Miguel for fresh seafood, though verify the restaurant follows proper food safety standards.