“To inspire people to live in ways that promote the well-being of the natural world”

This is the mission of the Phoenix Zoo in Arizona. Who could argue with that? Since 1962, they have tirelessly worked towards conservation and diversity of animal species locally and internationally including the Mexican Wolf, Asian Elephant and Sumatran Tiger. Visiting there is educational and fun. Besides, how can you resist watching a baby Orangutan clowning for the crowd?

The 125 acre Zoo is divided into four trails covering about 2.5 miles. The African and Tropics trails are longer than the Arizona and Kids trails and the zoo is easy to navigate. Some of the animal highlights for me included Asian Elephants, curious Meerkats, wallowing Warthogs, mysterious Sumatran Tigers, a restless Baboon colony and iconic Coyotes.

My favorite exhibit was the interactive Squirrel Monkey Village. Here you could enter their space and watch them frolic from tree to tree right in front of you! It was a blast. Another nice feature of the Phoenix Zoo is the opportunity to pack a picnic lunch to enjoy on the grounds. Of course, food is available there if you don’t want to lug a cooler.

The Zoo only takes a few hours to view but you can spend much more time on the beautiful grounds picnicking and participating. Make sure to stop at the Desert Botanical Garden nearby for an added treat. With so many programs, exhibits and opportunities to learn about animals at the Phoenix Zoo, you have to add this to your vacation ideas list in Arizona.

More Photos Here.

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