From Gran Canaria: Day Trip to Loro Parque Tenerife

Traveling from Gran Canaria to Tenerife for a day at Loro Parque offers a fantastic opportunity to see some of Europe’s best animal displays, catch lively shows, and explore an impressive zoo—all without staying overnight. We’ve gathered insights from travelers who have taken this tour to help you understand what makes this experience worthwhile, along with some practical tips to maximize your day.

What we love: the seamless transportation, the chance to see dolphins and sea lions perform, and the variety of exotic animals on display.
What we’re cautious about: the early start and the long day on the move might not suit everyone.
Who it’s for: animal lovers, families, or anyone eager to experience Tenerife’s wildlife without the hassle of organizing their own transport.

Key Points

• Convenient transportation: round-trip ferry and bus transfers streamline the journey from Gran Canaria to Tenerife.
• Diverse animal encounters: enjoy live dolphin, sea lion, and parrot shows, plus close-ups with giant tortoises and exotic birds.
• Early start, full day: the tour begins at 8:00 AM, making for a long but rewarding 12-hour adventure.
• Comfortable logistics: included pick-up from key points in Gran Canaria and skip-the-line entry to the park.
• Price vs. value: while the trip offers excellent value for animal enthusiasts, recent price increases warrant consideration.
• Authentic insights: reviews highlight knowledgeable guides and memorable animal interactions, adding depth to the experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Experience

This day trip is designed for those who want to explore Loro Parque’s extensive collection of animals with minimal fuss. The tour begins with a pickup from hotels in southern Gran Canaria or from the Auditorio Alfredo Kraus in Las Palmas, followed by a ferry crossing from Agaete at 8:00 AM. The ferry ride, lasting approximately 72 minutes, is a scenic way to start the day, offering ocean views and a chance to relax before hitting Tenerife.

Upon arrival in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, a comfortable bus awaits to whisk you to Loro Parque in Puerto de la Cruz. The park is well-organized, and the included skip-the-line entry means no wasting precious time waiting outside. Once inside, you’re free to explore at your own pace, with plenty of scheduled shows and exhibits to catch throughout the day.

Transportation and Timing

Ferry Transfer: The ferry from Agaete is a highlight in itself, offering a scenic, oceanic start to your adventure. Travelers report that the ferry’s comfort can vary; one review mentioned an older bus on Tenerife that was quite hot and poorly air-conditioned, so packing water and a hat is advisable.

Bus Transfer: After arriving in Santa Cruz, the bus to Loro Parque is straightforward, though some reviews mention the buses are older and may be less comfortable. Nonetheless, they are reliable and get you to and from the park efficiently.

Duration: Expect an early start at around 8:00 AM and a full 12-hour day, so prepare for a long but rewarding experience. The flexibility at the park allows you to enjoy shows and exhibits without feeling rushed.

Highlights Within the Park

Animal Shows: The dolphin and sea lion shows are often the star attractions, showcasing impressive water acrobatics and intelligence. Reviewers have praised the guides for their informative commentary, like Jasmine’s comment about a guide named Laura who did a fantastic job. Watching dolphins leap and sea lions perform is a highlight that makes the early start worthwhile.

Wildlife Encounters: You’ll see giant Galápagos tortoises, which are surprisingly gentle and impressive in size, and a variety of parrots such as macaws and parakeets, which are vibrant and lively. Many visitors appreciate the opportunity to get close to these colorful birds, adding a special touch to the visit.

Exotic Exhibits: The park’s collection of reptiles and fish provides a fascinating look at species that are rarely seen up close. The diversity of animals makes this more than just a zoo; it’s an immersive experience into the world of exotic wildlife.

Value and Cost Considerations

The trip includes round-trip transportation, skip-the-line entry, and the ferry transfer—making it a convenient package for those who prefer not to organize logistics independently. Compared to solo visits, this package is a good deal, especially for first-time visitors who want a guided, hassle-free experience.

However, recent reviews note that the price has increased significantly—from about €100 to €180, nearly doubling in just a couple of years. While this might seem steep, many still find the overall value justified by the convenience and quality of the experience. For animal lovers, the chance to see a variety of species and enjoy live shows in one day is often worth the cost.

Food and drinks are not included, so bringing snacks or planning to buy in the park is advisable. Some reviews mention the need to bring your ID or passport, essential for participating in the tour.

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Authentic Traveler Insights

Jasmine’s review highlights the guide’s enthusiasm, mentioning a guide named Laura who made the trip memorable despite some logistical hiccups, like the aging bus that was quite hot. Her comments underline the importance of good guides in enhancing the experience. Conversely, another traveler pointed out the rising cost as a consideration, emphasizing the need to weigh the expense against the value of a seamless, all-in-one trip.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for families with children, animal enthusiasts, or anyone wanting an easy way to visit Tenerife’s premier zoo. If you’re comfortable with early mornings and long days, you’ll appreciate how stress-free this all-in-one package is. It’s especially suitable for those who prefer guided transport and skip-the-line access, allowing you to maximize your time at the park.

Those who value authentic animal interactions and engaging shows will find plenty to enjoy here. However, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer more personalized, flexible explorations, you might consider organizing parts of the trip independently.

Final Thoughts

This day trip to Loro Parque from Gran Canaria offers a convenient and comprehensive way to explore Tenerife’s world-class zoo. The included ferry transfers, guided transport, and entry tickets make it an easy, hassle-free option for busy travelers eager to see a broad array of animals in one day.

While the early start and the long hours on transport might not appeal to everyone, the opportunity to watch captivating animal shows and get up close with some of the world’s most exotic creatures makes it a worthwhile experience for many. The knowledgeable guides, vibrant exhibits, and memorable moments create an experience that many reviewers consider worth the price.

For animal lovers, families, or travelers looking for a straightforward, all-in-one adventure, this trip delivers genuine value and authentic encounters. Just be prepared for a long day and bring your ID, some snacks, and a sense of adventure.

FAQ

Do I need to bring my passport or ID card?
Yes, you are required to bring your passport or ID card to participate in the tour.

What is included in the trip?
The package includes pickup and drop-off in Gran Canaria, ferry transfer from Agaete to Santa Cruz de Tenerife, bus transfer to Loro Parque, and entry to the park.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring snacks or buy in the park.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is transportation comfortable?
Transportation is reliable but some travelers have noted the buses are older and not the most comfortable, especially in hot weather.

How long do I have at the park?
You have a full day to explore at your own pace, with plenty of shows and exhibits scheduled throughout the day.

What should I pack?
Bring your ID or passport, comfortable shoes, sunscreen, water, and perhaps a hat for the sunny outdoor areas.

You can check availability for your dates here: