The park grounds were once part of the Hacienda de Zacango, a property dating back to the colonial era.
It is an AZA-accredited facility focusing on the reproduction of endangered Mexican species like the Mexican wolf and the California condor.
The park maintains a botanical garden that features endemic flora of the State of Mexico alongside animal exhibits.
Many enclosures use the existing stone masonry of the original hacienda walls to integrate historical architecture with animal habitats.
Parque Ecológico Zacango is a zoological park situated within a former 16th-century Franciscan hacienda. The zoo houses over 135 species of animals, including both native Mexican wildlife and exotic international fauna. The grounds are divided into distinct zones representing diverse biomes such as the African savannah, tropical rainforests, and high-altitude mountain forests. It functions as both a recreational park and a center for environmental education and conservation. The layout incorporates the original colonial architecture and stone structures of the former estate into the animal enclosures. The park covers approximately 159 hectares of designated ecological area. Visitors can observe large carnivores, primates, and various bird species in environments designed to mimic natural habitats. The site is located in the municipality of Calimaya, adjacent to the city of Toluca.
The elevated viewing deck overlooking the African savannah exhibit.
Wear comfortable walking shoes as the park terrain is expansive and includes significant slopes.
Bring a hat and sunscreen, as many viewing areas are fully exposed to high-altitude sunlight.
Plan to arrive early to see animals at their most active before midday temperatures rise.
Visiting during local school holidays or weekends, as the park becomes heavily congested.
Typically closed on Mondays for maintenance and animal care routines.
Do not feed or touch the animals; remain on designated paths; refrain from using flash photography near sensitive species.
