Santa Ana Zoo

Santa Ana’s small but fascinating zoo is a perfect place to while away two or three hours. There are over 80 species of animals to admire, with a particular emphasis on the wildlife of Central and South America. However, the zoo is most famous for its primates.The zoo was founded in 1952 after local benefactor and monkey enthusiast Joseph Prentice donated land to the city on the understanding that a collection of at least 50 primates should be constantly maintained. Today it is home to rare and endangered species such as the crested capuchin and golden-headed lion tamarin. Spot the tiny pygmy marmoset, the smallest monkey in the world, enjoy the acrobatics of the white-handed gibbon, and listen out for the characteristic “dawn chorus” of the black howler monkey.Once you’ve made friends with the primates, head for the aviary where brightly coloured Amazonian birds swoop and dive through the air and pond turtles paddle through the creeks. One of the zoo’s newest attractions is Tierra de las Pampas, the first in a series of new exhibits representing the different habitats of South America. In the “land of the grasses” you can marvel at giant anteaters and watch haughty guanaco llamas, before paying a visit to the Brazilian jungle in Amazon’s Edge, home to graceful black-necked swans and terrifying bird-eating tarantulas.Spread over just 8 hectares, this compact zoo is ideal for youngsters with low boredom thresholds. But even the most tired toddler won’t want to miss the petting area, where friendly farmyard animals are waiting to be stroked and fed. Afterwards, take a ride on the Conservation Carousel, which features brightly painted replicas of endangered animals, or join the Zoofari on a train journey around the park.Santa Ana Zoo is around five minutes’ drive from the city centre and there is free on-site parking. The zoo is open every day except certain public holidays and there is a small admission charge. Rides on the carousel and the Zoofari are subject to an additional fee. There is an on-site café and gift shop.