VigoNature

VigoNature is a nature and environmental education park in Vigo, built on the site of the city's former municipal zoo, Vigozoo. It sits on the slopes of Monte da Madroa, in the Teis (San Salvador) area, right on Praza dos Leóns — a spot that also touches the coastal branch of the Portuguese Way of St James.

From municipal zoo to nature park

The site's story goes back to 1970, when a public foundation was set up on the initiative of then-mayor Rafael Portanet. Construction was finished under his successor, Antonio Ramilo Fernández-Areal, and the zoo officially opened its gates on 18 July 1971. For decades it operated as a conventional zoo, but after months of renovation work it reopened under the VigoNature name on 1 March, rebranded as an environmental outreach centre built around education rather than animal displays.

What is there to see and do?

The grounds cover roughly 5.5 hectares of wooded hillside, threaded with walking trails. Children can climb into treehouse cabins built among the branches, and school groups are the main audience for hands-on workshops on renewable energy, native plants and wildlife, and invasive species. Visitors looking for something more physical can try activities such as zip-lining, caving, and basic survival-skills courses.

Which animals live there now?

Unlike the old zoo, VigoNature no longer keeps wild animals purely on display. The birds that remain on site are non-releasable — kept and cared for because injury or other circumstances prevent them from returning to the wild, with rehabilitation as the underlying goal rather than exhibition. Reptiles and farm animals, including donkeys, rabbits and sheep, round out the small resident population and are mainly used for educational visits with children.

Frequently asked questions

Is VigoNature still a zoo?

Not in the traditional sense. It kept part of the old Vigozoo infrastructure, but the focus has shifted from an exotic-animal collection to ecological education, nature trails and a small number of animals under rehabilitative care.

Where exactly is the park?

On Monte da Madroa, in the Teis district, at Praza dos Leóns s/n — a short drive from central Vigo, close to the coastal stretch of the Camino Portugués pilgrim route.

Who is it aimed at?

Mainly families with children and school groups, though the zip-lining, caving and survival activities also draw teenagers and adults looking for an outdoor day out.

Do the activities need booking in advance?

Educational workshops and activities like zip-lining or caving typically need to be booked ahead — check the park's own website or call ahead for the current schedule and details.