Things to Do in Jardín Botánico y Zoológico, Paraguay / Paraguái

The Jardín Botánico y Zoológico de Asunción stands as Paraguay's premier botanical garden and zoo, offering visitors a unique blend of native flora and fauna in the heart of the capital city. This 110-hectare sanctuary serves as both a conservation center and educational facility, housing over 200 species of animals including jaguars, pumas, capybaras, and an impressive collection of native birds, alongside extensive botanical collections featuring Paraguay's diverse plant life. Established as a vital green space within Asunción, the facility plays a crucial role in wildlife conservation and environmental education while providing families and nature enthusiasts with an accessible escape from urban life. The grounds feature well-maintained walking trails, picnic areas, and educational exhibits that showcase Paraguay's rich biodiversity, making it an essential stop for understanding the country's natural heritage.

Top Things to Do in Jardín Botánico y Zoológico

Wildlife Watching and Photography

Explore the zoo's diverse collection of native Paraguayan animals including jaguars, ocelots, giant anteaters, and over 100 bird species. The facility focuses on native wildlife conservation, offering excellent opportunities to observe animals you might not encounter elsewhere in Paraguay.

Booking Tip: Entry fees are very affordable (around $2-3 USD). Visit early morning (8-10 AM) when animals are most active. Bring a camera with zoom lens for better wildlife photography.

Botanical Garden Exploration

Wander through extensive botanical collections featuring native Paraguayan plants, medicinal herbs, and tropical species. The gardens showcase the country's flora diversity with well-labeled specimens and themed sections including orchid houses and native tree collections.

Booking Tip: Best visited during dry season (May-September) when plants are in bloom. Allow 2-3 hours for full exploration. Entry is included with zoo admission.

Educational Nature Programs

Participate in guided educational tours and workshops that focus on Paraguay's biodiversity, conservation efforts, and traditional uses of native plants. These programs are particularly valuable for understanding local ecosystems and environmental challenges.

Booking Tip: Programs are often in Spanish, so basic language skills help. Contact in advance for group tours. Educational programs may have small additional fees of $1-2 USD.

Family Picnicking and Recreation

Enjoy designated picnic areas and playgrounds within the botanical garden grounds, making it a perfect family destination. The spacious grounds offer plenty of room for children to play while adults relax in natural surroundings.

Booking Tip: Bring your own food and drinks as on-site dining options are limited. Weekends can be crowded with local families. Best to visit weekday mornings for quieter experience.

Bird Watching Tours

The gardens attract numerous native bird species beyond those in captivity, making it excellent for bird watching. Early morning visits offer the best opportunities to spot toucans, parrots, and various songbirds in their natural habitat within the grounds.

Booking Tip: Bring binoculars and visit at dawn (7-9 AM) for peak bird activity. Rainy season (October-March) offers better bird diversity but muddy conditions.

Getting There

The Jardín Botánico y Zoológico is located in eastern Asunción and easily accessible by various transportation methods. From downtown Asunción, take local buses (líneas) that run frequently throughout the city for about $0.50 USD. Taxis are readily available and cost around $3-5 USD from the city center. If driving, the facility has parking available, though spaces can fill up on weekends. The location is well-signposted and most taxi drivers are familiar with the destination.

Getting Around

The botanical garden and zoo are designed for walking, with well-maintained paths connecting all areas of the 110-hectare facility. Comfortable walking shoes are essential as you'll cover several kilometers exploring the grounds. The terrain is mostly flat with some gentle slopes, making it accessible for most fitness levels. Maps are available at the entrance, and major attractions are clearly signposted throughout the grounds. Allow 3-4 hours to see everything at a leisurely pace.

Where to Stay

Villa Morra

Las Carmelitas

Centro Histórico

Recoleta

Carmelitas

Sajonia

Food & Dining

The botanical garden has limited food options, so consider bringing snacks and water for your visit. However, the surrounding area of Asunción offers excellent dining opportunities. Try traditional Paraguayan cuisine at local restaurants featuring dishes like sopa paraguaya, chipa, and asado. The nearby Villa Morra neighborhood has numerous restaurants, cafes, and food courts. For authentic local experience, visit mercados (markets) in the area where you can sample traditional foods and fresh tropical fruits at very reasonable prices.

When to Visit

The best time to visit is during Paraguay's dry season from May to September when temperatures are milder (15-25°C) and rainfall is minimal, making walking the extensive grounds more comfortable. Early morning visits (8-10 AM) are ideal for wildlife viewing and avoiding midday heat. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends when local families frequent the facility. During the wet season (October-April), expect higher temperatures, humidity, and afternoon thunderstorms, though this period offers lush vegetation and increased bird activity.

Insider Tips

Bring insect repellent year-round as mosquitoes can be prevalent, especially near water features and during humid months

The facility accepts only cash payments in Paraguayan Guaraní, so exchange money beforehand as there are no ATMs on-site

Photography is encouraged, but flash photography near animals is prohibited - respect the wildlife and follow posted guidelines for animal welfare

Things to Do in Jardín Botánico y Zoológico