Wiwa Quito — Wildlife Refuge & Rehabilitation Center

For travelers, families, and nature lovers based in Quito, Wiwa Quito (formerly known as the Quito Zoo in Guayllabamba, Quito Zoo, or Zoológico de Guayllabamba) offers an exceptional opportunity to see and learn about Ecuador's rich biodiversity. Nestled in the warm, dry valley of Guayllabamba just an hour north of the capital, this 12-hectare sanctuary houses over 130 animals native to Ecuador and South America.

As of June 2026, the sanctuary entered a monumental new phase, officially transitioning from a traditional zoo to Wiwa Quito · Parque Refugio de Animales Silvestres (Wildlife Refuge Park). The name "Wiwa" represents the Kichwa word for "animal." Administered by the Fundación Zoológica del Ecuador (FZE), this park refuge is designed to move beyond traditional ex-situ display, emphasizing ecological interdependence, coexistence, and a highly active role as the nation's leading center for wildlife rescue, rehabilitation, and quarantine.

1. The Mission: Rescue, Rehabilitation, & Coexistence

Wiwa Quito is much more than a standard tourist attraction; it is a vital pillar of environmental conservation in Ecuador: * The Rescue Network: The refuge serves as the primary receiving center for animals confiscated from illegal wildlife trafficking, abuse, or abandoned in harmful living conditions. Your entry ticket directly funds the veterinary care, quarantine, and rehabilitation of these invisible, non-display animals. * Andean Condor & Mountain Tapir Protection: FZE actively leads national conservation campaigns for endangered flagship species, with a particular emphasis on the majestic Andean Condor (Ecuador's national bird) and the rare Mountain Tapir. * Wiwa Quito Evolution: The 2026 restructuring focuses on four major conservation objectives: 1. Operating as a true parque refugio (refuge park) for rescued wildlife. 2. Promoting deep educational experiences regarding biodiversity and ecological interdependence. 3. Engaging communities to foster sustainable coexistence between humans and wild fauna. 4. Advancing research and rehabilitation programs that extend far beyond Guayllabamba's physical borders. * Famous Residents: The refuge is home to the legendary Galapagos Tortoise, the secretive Spectacled Bear (Andean Bear), the stealthy Jaguar, and spectacular walk-in aviaries representing several Andean and cloud-forest bird species.

2. Planning Your 2026 Visit: Schedules & Prices

To ensure a seamless trip, keep these operational parameters in mind:

Opening Hours & Schedules

• Tuesday to Sunday & Bank Holidays: 09:00 AM to 16:00 PM (Last ticket sale is at 16:00 PM / 4:00 PM; grounds close at 17:00 PM).
• Mondays: CLOSED for maintenance, veterinary procedures, and animal enrichment.

Entry Fees & Prices (2026 Tariffs)

• Adults (Ages 12-65): $8.00 USD
• Children (Ages 1-11): $5.00 USD
• Senior Citizens (65+ / Third Age): $3.50 USD
• Note: Subscribing members of specific regional travel clubs (such as the Ecuador Terra Incognita Subscriber Club) can enjoy free or highly discounted entry.

3. Getting There: Transport Services Directory

Guayllabamba is located approximately 1 hour north of Quito along the Pan-American Highway.

🚌 Terminal La Ofelia (Quito North) ──► Guayllabamba Bus ────► Detour Sign "Zoo 3km" ──► Local Taxi ──► Wiwa Quito
     Metro Bus: $0.25           Fare: $0.65             Highway detours                 Fare: $1.50  Alt: Warm Valley

I. By Public Bus (The Budget Route)

1. Step 1: Board the integrated Metro Bus system (\$0.25 USD) from central or northern Quito to Terminal La Ofelia.
2. Step 2: From La Ofelia, board a regional bus bound for Guayllabamba/Zoológico. The fare is $0.65 USD and the scenic ride takes about 45 minutes.
3. Step 3: Request the driver to drop you off at the "Zoo 3km" detour sign on the main highway.
4. Step 4: At the detour, board a licensed white-and-green local taxi for the final 3km paved drive directly to the Wiwa Quito entrance gate ($1.50 USD per ride).

II. By Taxi and Ride-Sharing Services

Taking an Uber, Cabify, or local yellow cab is a highly popular, convenient, and safe option for tourists and solo travelers. * Ride-Hailing Apps (Uber/Cabify): Easily book a ride from northern Quito (such as the La Carolina or La Mariscal neighborhoods) directly to Wiwa Quito. The ride takes around 45-50 minutes and is highly economical compared to international standards. * Yellow Municipal Cabs: Ensure the driver utilizes their taximeter (taxímetro) during the day, or agree upon a fixed flat rate in advance if booking a full-day round trip.

III. By Private Car

• Take the fully paved Panamericana Norte highway heading north from Quito towards Guayllabamba.
• As you enter the parish of Guayllabamba, follow the clear municipal signage pointing to Pasaje Pircabamba y Calle Rumichupa (the official paved 3km access road leading directly to the refuge parking lot).

4. 📍 Google Maps & Review Directory

5. ☀️ Health & Safety: Sun, Skin Care, & Mosquitoes

Guayllabamba is a warm, dry, and highly sunny valley that contrasts sharply with the cooler, cloudier highlands of metropolitan Quito. To enjoy your day trip comfortably, follow these essential health recommendations:

I. Sun Protection & High-Altitude UV Safety

Ecuador’s position directly on the Equator, combined with the region’s high elevation, means solar radiation is exceptionally intense. * Sunscreen is Indispensable: Apply high-SPF broad-spectrum sunscreen before leaving your hotel and reapply it every two hours. The warm Andean sun can cause severe sunburns even on overcast days. * Wear Protective Clothing: Pack a wide-brimmed hat and a good pair of UV-blocking sunglasses. Dress in light, breathable layers (like linen or thin cotton) to stay cool under the direct sun while keeping your skin covered. * Hydration: Bring plenty of bottled water to prevent dehydration in the valley's dry heat.

II. Mosquitoes and Insect Prevention

Unlike the city of Quito where mosquitoes are virtually non-existent due to the altitude, Guayllabamba's warm, subtropical climate makes it a breeding ground for insects and mosquitoes. * Bring Insect Repellent: It is highly recommended to pack a strong insect repellent containing DEET or picaridin. Apply it generously to exposed skin, especially around your ankles and arms. * Wear Long Sleeves & Long Pants: If you are highly sensitive to insect bites, wearing thin, long-sleeved shirts and long trousers will provide an effective physical barrier against mosquitoes. * Avoid Perfumes: Sweet-scented lotions, colognes, and perfumes are known to attract mosquitoes and biting midges—opt for unscented skin products instead.

III. Gastronomic Safety

Guayllabamba is famous for its delicious local highland gastronomy and fresh avocados. While sampling typical dishes is a highlight, exercise good judgment when selecting roadside eateries. Choose established restaurants or food stalls with high turnover to ensure the food is freshly prepared.

Verified References & Sources

1. Sanctuary Background & Rescued Wildlife: 12-hectare size, FZE-administered, Galapagos tortoises, spectacled bears, condor programs, and quarantine operations (F10 Guayllabamba Zoo, Passage 128).
2. Schedules, Phone Contacts, & Fares: Tuesday-Sunday hours, ticket cutoff times, FZE emails, and Ofelia transit fares (F10 Guayllabamba Zoo, Passage 128).
3. Terminal Connections & Bus Logistics: Ofelia terminal coordinates, Metro Bus transfers, and regional Cooperativa routes (F10 Guayllabamba Zoo, Passage 128; Q1 National Aviation, Passage 95).
4. Valley Microclimate & Repellent Warnings: Warm weather patterns, typical dishes, and essential insect repellent guidelines (F0 Natural and Ecological Sightseeing, Passage 124).
5. Sun Protection & Altitude Packing: Equatorial solar safety, sunscreen recommendations, clothing layers, and hydration protocols (B4 Travel Recommendations, Passage 48).

Last Updated: August 2026