Marcelle Natureza

Marcelle Natureza is a zoological park in Outeiro de Rei, in the province of Lugo, Galicia, set on the banks of the Miño River.

What is this place?

The park opened in 2003 and has since grown into a site that combines wildlife viewing with nature education. It sits within the Natura 2000 network and the Terras do Miño Biosphere Reserve, so a visit doubles as a walk through protected countryside right along the Miño.

What animals live there?

Marcelle Natureza is home to more than 40 species, both native to Galicia and from other parts of the world. Local wildlife on show includes the Iberian wolf, wild boar, and brown bear. Alongside them, visitors can see exotic species such as bison, northern lynx, meerkats, ostriches, dromedaries, kangaroos, zebras, capybaras, and armadillos. That mix lets visitors compare animals typical of the region with species usually associated with far-off continents in a single visit.

Where do the animals come from?

A defining feature of Marcelle Natureza is how it sources its animals. Most residents arrive from other zoos or from wildlife rescue and rehabilitation centres, rather than being taken from the wild specifically to stock the park. The park focuses on animals that, for various reasons, can no longer return to their natural habitat. Enclosures are built to reproduce the natural environment of each species, reducing stress on the animals and letting visitors observe more natural behaviour.

What can families and children do here?

Education for younger visitors is a core part of the park's offer. A Nature Classroom houses a terrarium with arachnids and reptiles, alongside an aquarium featuring aquatic species. Beyond the permanent exhibits, the park runs educational activities for children, craft workshops, summer camps, and themed excursions. Depending on the season, multi-adventure activities are also available, combining animal viewing with outdoor recreation.

Who is it suited for?

Thanks to its mix of education, animal encounters, and outdoor activity, Marcelle Natureza is a popular choice for families with children and school groups. Its riverside setting within protected land near Lugo means a visit also comes with a scenic walk through the surrounding countryside, away from any urban bustle.

Frequently asked questions

How many animal species can be seen at Marcelle Natureza? The park exhibits more than 40 species, both native to Galicia (such as the Iberian wolf, wild boar, and brown bear) and exotic ones like bison, northern lynx, meerkats, and kangaroos.

Where do the park's animals come from? Most animals arrive from other zoos or from wildlife rescue and rehabilitation centres — the park does not source animals directly from the wild.

Is Marcelle Natureza a good place for children? Yes, it offers a Nature Classroom with a terrarium and aquarium, plus educational activities, workshops, and summer camps aimed at younger visitors.

Where exactly is the park located? Marcelle Natureza is located in the municipality of Outeiro de Rei, in the province of Lugo, on the banks of the Miño River, within the Natura 2000 network and the Terras do Miño Biosphere Reserve.