ZooMAT keeps only species native to Chiapas and displays them inside the El Zapotal forest reserve, so the enclosures sit under real canopy and free-ranging agoutis, curassows and macaws wander the paths. Jaguar, ocelot, tapir, harpy eagle, quetzal, spider monkey and the endemic horned guan are all represented, and the herpetarium holds the rattlesnakes and coral snakes of the region. Founded in 1942 and named for the naturalist who ran it for decades, it is consistently rated among the best zoos in Latin America.
ZooMAT keeps only species native to Chiapas and displays them inside the working El Zapotal forest reserve rather than in an artificial park setting, so enclosures sit beneath real rainforest canopy and free-ranging agoutis, curassows and macaws move through the visitor paths alongside the enclosed animals. Signature species include jaguar, ocelot, tapir, harpy eagle, resplendent quetzal, spider monkey and the endemic horned guan, and a dedicated herpetarium holds the region's rattlesnakes, coral snakes and other native reptiles. Founded in 1942 and named for the naturalist Miguel Alvarez del Toro, who directed it for decades and shaped its conservation-first approach, the zoo is consistently ranked among the best in Latin America for enclosure design and animal welfare rather than for scale or novelty. A full visit walking the forest paths and viewing all major enclosures takes two to three hours. The 8:30AM opening is the best time to go, when the cats and other predators are most active and the forest paths are still cool before the midday heat sets in over the reserve.
Good to know
- Hours
- Tuesday to Sunday 8:30AM-6:00PM; closed Monday for maintenance
- Best time
- At the 8:30AM opening, when the cats are active and the forest paths are cool
Location
Calzada Cerro Hueco s/n, Colonia El Zapotal, 29094 Tuxtla Gutierrez, Chiapas, Mexico
16.7186, -93.0919 View on map
Highlights
- Enclosures set within real El Zapotal rainforest canopy
- Free-ranging agoutis, curassows and macaws along the visitor paths
- Jaguar, ocelot, tapir and harpy eagle among the native species on display
- Endemic horned guan and resplendent quetzal
- Herpetarium of native Chiapas snakes
Tips for visiting
- Arrive at the 8:30AM opening for the most active animals and coolest walking conditions
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the paths cover a genuine forest reserve rather than a compact park
- Visit on a Tuesday for free entry, though it is also the busiest day
- Bring water, as the shaded forest paths still involve real walking distance between enclosures
- Allow two to three hours to see the major enclosures without rushing
When to visit
The 8:30AM opening, when the cats and other predators are most active and the forest paths are coolest.
Accessibility
The zoo's paths wind through genuine forest terrain with some uneven, sloped sections, which can be challenging for wheelchairs, though main routes between major enclosures are generally passable.
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Frequently asked questions
How long does a visit to ZooMAT take?
Two to three hours covers the main forest paths and major enclosures at a comfortable pace.
Is ZooMAT worth it for kids?
Yes; the free-ranging animals along the paths and the jaguar and quetzal enclosures make it one of the most engaging family stops in Tuxtla Gutierrez.
Is photography allowed at ZooMAT?
Yes, photography is unrestricted throughout the reserve, including of the free-ranging wildlife along the paths.
Why does ZooMAT only display Chiapas species?
The zoo was founded on a conservation-focused model that specifically showcases the state's native wildlife rather than a broader international collection, reflecting its founder's naturalist background.