All about Parque Zoológico del Centenario in Mérida

There are two zoos in Mérida. Parque Zoológico del Centenario (west of the city center) is the most important zoological park in the city of Mérida and was founded in 1910 on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of Mexico's independence, from which it derives its name.

The zoo was originally designed as a botanical garden and was intended to serve as a recreational park for the city. In 1962, the park underwent a major renovation and the park was transformed into a zoo.

However, there is still a division into two main areas: A recreational area with a children's play area, a little train, boats, a cable car, an aquarium and a jet fountain.

The animal area includes an aviary, reptiles and amphibians, primates and mammals. The zoo has been around for quite a long time and the animals are unfortunately kept in small cages.

Natural History Museum of Mérida

The Museo de Historia Natural (Natural History Museum of Mérida) is located on the side of the Parque Zoológico del Centenario, the building at the intersection of Calle 59 and Calle 84.

It presents the history of the local fauna and flora and its location makes it ideal for combining both visits.

Parque Zoológico Animaya

The other zoo in Mérida, Parque Zoológico Animaya (also known as Parque Zoológico del Bicentenario) is located on the western outskirts.

It is the newer of the two public zoos in Mérida. Animaya is intended to provide an environment similar to that of a safari and the animals can move relatively freely.