Maroparque – Where Animals Get a Second Chance

High up in Breña Alta, on a steep slope overlooking La Palma’s east coast, lies Maroparque—a facility unlike any other on the island. It is not a zoo – it is a rescue station for confiscated and injured animals.

Maroparque Breña Alta – animal rescue station.

What sets Maroparque apart from other animal facilities: the directness of the encounter. Some enclosures are walk-through aviaries where parrots fly around you freely.

The Animals at Maroparque

The park’s residents come from around the world – more specifically: from seizures by customs and wildlife authorities. Parrots, macaws, tortoises, monkeys and many other species that were illegally traded.

Long-tailed parakeets in Maroparque Breña Alta.

At the ticket desk you can buy special feed to feed some of the animals directly – a memorable experience, especially for children.

The Botanical Garden

Alongside the animal enclosures, a botanical garden extends through the park with endemic and tropical plants – a pleasant walk even for visitors less interested in animals.

Panoramic View of the East Coast

Maroparque’s location is a destination in itself: the park is situated on a ridge above a gorge, with a magnificent view over the east coast of La Palma and the Atlantic.

The Maroparque grounds are laid out on a hillside and lead via ramps, wooden walkways and steps. Sturdy footwear is recommended.

Practical Information for Your Visit

Maroparque: Breña Alta, La Palma

Opening hours: daily 10:00–18:00

Admission adults: approx. €11.00–€12.50

Duration of tour: approx. 1–1.5 hours

Animal feed: available at the ticket desk — recommended

Parking: free on site (limited spaces)

Getting there from Santa Cruz: LP-2 towards Breña Alta, follow Maroparque signs – approx. 15 min.

Practical Tips for Your Visit to Maroparque

Plan for Sturdy Footwear

Maroparque is spectacularly situated on a steep slope above a gorge. The paths are partially unpaved and can be slippery after rain.

Limited Accessibility

Given its hillside location, steep steps, and narrow pathways, the park is only partially wheelchair accessible.

A Break with a View

A special highlight is the park’s panoramic terrace. In the café or restaurant you can enjoy refreshments with a magnificent view over the coast.

Ideal to Combine with Other Viewpoints

A visit to Maroparque pairs perfectly with a drive through the green hills of Breña Alta and a detour to the Mirador de la Concepción.

Combination with Santa Cruz de La Palma

Located in Breña Alta, Maroparque naturally pairs with a visit to the capital, Santa Cruz—just 10 minutes away.

Castillo de Santa Catalina in the heart of the old town of Santa Cruz de La Palma — coastal fortress and landmark.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is Maroparque suitable for young children?

Yes – especially for children aged 4 and up, the park is a real highlight. The walk-through aviaries and the chance to feed animals appeal directly to children. While some paths are steep, they are generally manageable with a stroller.

Why is the entrance fee so high?

Entrance fees go directly towards feeding and caring for the animals. Maroparque is a rescue centre rather than a commercial zoo; its animals are surrendered pets or confiscated wildlife. Running costs are high and supplemented by government funding.

Can you buy or adopt animals at Maroparque?

No – Maroparque’s animals are CITES-registered and under official supervision. They cannot be transferred to private individuals. The park can however be supported through sponsorship programmes.

Is Maroparque wheelchair accessible?

No, the park is not fully accessible due to its hillside location. Many steps and slopes make visiting with a wheelchair or heavy stroller difficult.

What should you wear?

Comfortable clothing and sturdy footwear with good grip are recommended. Paths can be slippery in places due to the slope and cobbled surfaces.

What can you combine with a visit to Maroparque?

The viewpoint Mirador de La Concepción, a drive through Breña Alta, or a detour to Santa Cruz de La Palma all combine well.

CITES – What It Means

Maroparque is an officially recognised CITES centre. CITES is the Washington Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species – one of the most important international wildlife protection agreements.

This means: the animals you see here do not come from a breeding programme for tourism, but from seizures by customs authorities – animals that were removed from illegal trade.

Funding and Development

In March 2026, Maroparque received confirmation of state funding of 1 million euros for the expansion of facilities and improvement of animal welfare.

Tips for Visiting with Children

Maroparque is ideal for families with children from about 4 years of age. The feed available at the ticket desk is a must – the direct contact with the animals creates unforgettable moments.

Best Time to Visit and Day Planning

Maroparque opens daily at 10:00. Those wishing to experience the animals at feeding time should ask at the ticket desk for the current schedule.

For families, we recommend splitting the day: Maroparque in the morning and Santa Cruz’s old town in the afternoon.

This article is based on the first-hand expertise of the Gequo editorial team – publishers of the Reisezeit hiking guides and operators of Sunhikes.com. Last updated: May 2026

Sunhikes.com