Bioparc Valencia, Valencia (must see)

Bioparc Valencia, situated in Valencia, is a sprawling zoo park spanning 10 hectares (25 acres). It is under the ownership of the City Council of Valencia and is designed and managed by Rainforest, a private Spanish company specializing in the construction and administration of zoos. The park boasts a diverse array of African wildlife.

Positioned within Valencia's Turia riverbed, the majority of the animals were relocated from the old city's zoo to the new Bioparc facilities upon its inauguration in 2008.

The zoo employs an innovative concept known as Zooimersion, where visitors are immersed in the animals' natural habitats rather than the other way around. Unlike traditional zoos that employ railings and cages, Bioparc Valencia utilizes natural features such as rivers, ponds, streams, and rocks to separate visitors from the animals. Additionally, meticulous attention has been devoted to replicating the ecosystems, including an extensive collection of African flora.

Notably, Bioparc Valencia proudly holds the distinction of being the birthplace of Makena, the first elephant born in the Valencian Community.

Why You Should Visit:
Very good 21st-century version zoo without cages – animals are divided from people only by natural means (rivers, canyons, etc).
The animals look clean and healthy and with 25 acres to explore there are plenty of them to get up close to.
Tickets are typically priced for a high-quality zoo, and part of the money goes to good causes.

Tip:
Buy your ticket in advance from tourist buses or hotels and try to go early. Especially during holiday season, it gets busy during the day.
Don't take food (as they check bags on the way in and some foods are not allowed). Do take water (in plastic, not glass containers).
If you avoid the typical lunchtime rush, the on-site café queues are shorter.