Loro Parque sits on the western outskirts of Puerto de la Cruz and is consistently ranked among the best zoos in Europe. The grounds are beautifully landscaped with tropical plants, and the enclosures are large and naturalistic by zoo standards. Highlights include the gorilla habitat, the Penguin Planet (a refrigerated Antarctic environment housing hundreds of penguins), the shark tunnel aquarium, and the orca pool.
The zoo takes conservation seriously and funds projects across multiple continents. It is large enough to fill a full day, and the animal shows — including the parrot show — are popular, though you can visit without attending them. Arrive early to avoid the worst of the crowds, which peak in the afternoon. A free shuttle runs from the seafront in Puerto de la Cruz.