Maroparque

Maroparque is an animal rescue centre located in Breña Alta on La Palma, one of the Canary Islands.

What is Maroparque?

Maroparque fundación operates as a shelter and rehabilitation centre for animals that arrive under difficult circumstances — abandonment, confiscation, or injury. The centre opened in 2000 and has steadily expanded its operations since then. Today it is home to roughly 450 animals, making it one of the larger facilities of its kind on the island.

Why does this place matter?

Maroparque's story is closely tied to one of the most significant events in La Palma's recent history: the 2021 eruption of the Cumbre Vieja volcano. As lava destroyed homes and farms across the surrounding area, many animals lost their shelters and owners overnight. The centre took in more than 250 extra animals during that crisis, animals that suddenly had nowhere else to go. That response highlights the role the facility plays not just in ordinary times, but also when the local community faces a natural disaster.

Where exactly is Maroparque located?

The centre sits in the municipality of Breña Alta, on the eastern side of La Palma, not far from the island's capital, Santa Cruz de La Palma. Its coordinates are approximately 28.68238, -17.77834. Breña Alta enjoys a mild, humid climate typical of the island's eastern coast, which supports the lush vegetation surrounding the site.

What should visitors know before going?

Anyone planning a visit should keep in mind that Maroparque is first and foremost a rescue centre, not a conventional zoo or theme park. Animal welfare comes before visitor entertainment, so it's worth adjusting expectations accordingly when planning a stop here. La Palma as a whole is known for its UNESCO biosphere reserve status and for its exceptionally dark skies, which make it a popular spot for stargazing, so a visit to Maroparque pairs easily with other attractions on the island's eastern side.

How do you get to Breña Alta?

Breña Alta lies close to both Santa Cruz de La Palma and La Palma Airport, making it easy to reach by rental car or local transport. The area also serves as a convenient base for exploring the island's eastern coastline, including nearby towns and scenic viewpoints.

Frequently asked questions

What does Maroparque do? It is an animal rescue centre that takes in abandoned, confiscated, or injured animals and provides them with care.

When was the centre founded? Maroparque opened in 2000 and has operated as a permanent shelter on La Palma ever since.

How many animals live there now? The facility currently houses around 450 animals of various species.

How is Maroparque connected to the 2021 volcanic eruption? During the Cumbre Vieja eruption, the centre took in more than 250 additional animals that had lost their homes to the lava.