Crocodile Park

In the town of Aguimes, amidst the magnificent green landscapes and mountains of Gran Canaria, there is a unique Crocodile Park (Cocodrilo Park). The Crocodile Park is home to three hundred crocodiles, other reptiles, mammals, exotic fish, and birds.

The large collection of toothy reptiles originated here thanks to the initiative of the Balzer family. It started with a few crocodiles taken in by the family.

Gradually, the number of these unusual representatives of the fauna in the Balzers’ home zoo grew. They were joined by emaciated, sick animals seized from smugglers and those that had suffered from the cruelty of private owners. The staff of the small zoo, under the guidance of the island’s Civil Guard Service Seprona, nursed and treated reptiles, monkeys, and parrots.

Since 1988, Cocodrilo Park has been open for visits. Crocodiles, iguanas, zebras, monkeys, leopards, llamas, deer, and ducks live here in an adapted environment, close to their natural habitats. The park features remarkable cactus gardens. The park’s fauna collection continues to grow – many animals are bought from circuses and private menageries. Some individuals were born in Cocodrilo Park (for example, a family of Bengal tigers has successfully bred here).

In the Crocodile Park, reptile shows are held in two sections. Visitors can witness the crocodiles’ «dinner» and dozens of entertaining tricks performed by brave trainers together with the toothy «artists.» Three times a day, a parrot show called «Treasure Island» is held here. The park has a souvenir shop and a beer tent. All proceeds go towards maintaining the infrastructure, supporting the inhabitants of Cocodrilo Park, and paying the staff.