VigoNature
Vigo, Spain
About VigoNature
VigoNature is the municipal environmental park on Monte da Madroa at Teis, about 10 km from the centre of Vigo. It opened in 1971 as VigoZoo, one of the five zoological parks of Galicia, and has been reshaped under its present name around education and sustainability rather than display. Its animals are now chiefly birds of prey that cannot be returned to the wild, kept in diurnal and nocturnal enclosures and used to teach about injured wildlife, alongside an Exotarium of insects, arachnids, amphibians and reptiles, an upper floor butterfly house and aviary holding exotic birds all year, and aquariums with octopus and seahorses.
There is also a twenty-seat planetarium, a solar-powered picnic shelter, urban allotments and a large education programme of guided visits, workshops, camps and astronomy nights.
Visitors can park for free at VigoNature. There are designated parking areas near the entrance, making it convenient for families and groups. It's advisable to arrive early on weekends to secure a good parking spot, especially during busy times.
- Bicycles, balls and skates are not allowed, nor are pets except guide dogs. Visitors may not feed, disturb or touch the animals. Tickets are cheaper Monday to Friday and on Saturdays before 15:00; the higher rate applies from Saturday 15:00 and on Sundays and public holidays. Reduced and large-family rates need proof of entitlement and are not refundable.
- VigoNature is set to complete its transformation into a full environmental park by 2027.
- The park offers activities designed for families every weekend, making it a perfect outing for all ages.
- It provides educational programs that complement school curricula through hands-on experiences in nature.
- The park features a sensory garden, tree house, amphitheater, and an auditorium as part of its upcoming facilities.