20/12/2023
Jungle Park Tenerife: More Than Just an Animal Attraction
Nestled in the lush landscape of Tenerife, Jungle Park presents itself as Europe's only true jungle, a haven teeming with exotic flora and a diverse array of fauna. While its official name might evoke images of untamed wilderness, the reality of Jungle Park offers a structured, albeit sometimes quirky, experience for visitors. This expansive park, formerly known as Parque las Águilas (Eagle Park), has evolved to house a variety of animals, from playful primates and majestic big cats to charming penguins and fascinating reptiles. Beyond the enclosures, the park offers engaging shows and interactive experiences, aiming to provide a memorable day out for families and animal enthusiasts alike.
What Exactly is Jungle Park?
Jungle Park officially designates itself as a zoological and botanical park, a place designed to showcase a variety of animal species within environments that mimic their natural habitats. The park boasts a collection of approximately 400 animals, though website discrepancies suggest this number can fluctuate. Visitors can expect to see birds of prey, primates, big cats, penguins, and various reptiles. The park's layout is designed to immerse visitors in a verdant environment, with wild vegetation contributing to the 'jungle' atmosphere. Despite the name and branding featuring a lion, it's worth noting that lions are no longer a feature of the park, a fact subtly indicated by scratched-out signage.
Attractions and Experiences at Jungle Park
Jungle Park offers a multi-faceted experience that goes beyond simply observing animals. The park is renowned for its three distinct shows:
- Birds of Prey Show: This is often highlighted as a particularly impressive display, showcasing the aerial prowess of various birds of prey. Visitors are advised that sitting directly under perches can offer a closer view, but perhaps also a messier one!
- Exotic Bird Show: This show provides an opportunity for interaction, especially on quieter days, allowing the audience to engage with the colourful and diverse avian inhabitants.
- Sea Lion Show: While some might find the show's choreography a bit dated, the trainers' ability to elicit impressive performances from the sea lions using hand gestures adds a unique charm.
For those seeking a more hands-on encounter, Jungle Park offers several add-on experiences:
- Passport Experience: This package allows for closer interactions, including the chance to feed and touch certain animals, offering a more intimate connection with the park's residents.
- Sea Lion Encounter: This premium experience allows visitors to swim with sea lions in the main pool and includes a photo opportunity with one of the charismatic marine mammals.
Beyond animal interactions, the park features a toboggan run called "Bob," which comes with an additional charge of €4. It's an added element of fun, though its starting point might not be as intuitively located as one might expect.
A Closer Look at the Animal Enclosures and Park Condition
Visitor reviews offer a mixed perspective on the park's animal enclosures. While some enclosures, like those for the orangutans, are described as impressive in design, the overall condition and spaciousness can vary significantly. The penguins and sea lions, for instance, have received comments regarding their accommodation standards not being as high as others. The park is set within a large woodland area, providing ample shade in many parts, which is a welcome feature, especially on warmer days. However, show venues can be quite exposed, making sun protection essential.
The park's layout is generally well-signposted, preventing visitors from getting too lost, though some minor navigational challenges have been reported, particularly with older park maps. The presence of peacocks strutting freely adds a touch of unexpected charm. Opportunities to feed animals, such as emus, are available for a small fee (€2), offering humorous photo opportunities.
Pricing and Ticket Information
Understanding the cost of visiting Jungle Park is crucial for planning your trip. Ticket prices vary based on residency and age:
| Category | Non-Resident Adult (11+) | Non-Resident Child (5-10) | Non-Resident Child (3-4) | Canarian Resident Adult (11+) | Canarian Resident Child (5-10) | Canarian Resident Child (3-4) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price Range | €31 - €33 | €24 - €26 | €14 | €19 - €21 | €15 - €12.50 | €8 - €9 |
Note: Prices are subject to change. Children under three years old can enter for free. Booking tickets online in advance is highly recommended to avoid long queues at the entrance, even though the price is the same as at the gate.
Insider Tips for Your Visit
To make the most of your day at Jungle Park, consider these insider tips:
- Book Online: As mentioned, securing your tickets online beforehand is the best way to skip the potentially lengthy entrance queues.
- Free Parking: While the park charges €4 for parking, there are ample free parking spaces available just a short walk past the main entrance.
- Utilise the Free Bus Service: Jungle Park offers a complimentary bus service from various locations across Costa Adeje, Playa de Las Américas, and Los Cristianos. Special shuttle services are also available for areas like Golf del Sur, Los Gigantes, and others if booked in advance.
- Bring Your Own Food and Drinks: The cost of refreshments within the park can be quite high (e.g., €14 for two beers). Packing your own snacks and drinks is a great way to save money.
- Use the Park Map: The park can feel a bit like a maze. The provided map is invaluable for navigating and for ticking off animals as you see them, ensuring you don't miss any.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How much does it cost to enter Jungle Park Tenerife?
Prices for non-residents typically range from €31-€33 for adults and €24-€26 for children aged 5-10. Prices for Canarian residents are lower.
Q2: Are there lions at Jungle Park Tenerife?
Although the park's branding often features a lion, current visitor information and signage suggest that lions are no longer part of the animal collection.
Q3: Can I bring my own food into Jungle Park?
Yes, visitors are permitted to bring their own food and drinks into the park, which is a cost-effective option.
Q4: What are the opening hours for Jungle Park?
Jungle Park is open 365 days a year, typically from 10 am to 5:30 pm.
Q5: Is Jungle Park suitable for young children?
Yes, families with young children often find the park enjoyable, especially for their first experience with various animal species. The shows and interactive elements are particularly engaging for younger visitors.
Final Thoughts on Jungle Park
Jungle Park Tenerife offers a unique blend of animal observation, educational shows, and interactive experiences. While some aspects, such as enclosure conditions and the absence of certain advertised animals, have drawn mixed reviews, the park provides a solid day out for families. The emphasis on shows and the optional interactive experiences like the Passport Experience or Sea Lion Encounter can elevate the visit. With careful planning, utilising the provided tips, and managing expectations regarding the 'jungle' aspect, visitors can certainly enjoy a memorable day exploring the diverse offerings of this Tenerife attraction.
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