From Gran Canaria: Day Trip to Loro Parque Tenerife

Travelers often seek experiences that combine a touch of adventure, wildlife, and convenient logistics — and this day trip to Loro Parque from Gran Canaria hits all those marks. Offering a full 12-hour itinerary packed with animal shows, close-up encounters, and scenic transfers, it’s a popular choice for those eager to explore one of Europe’s top zoos without the hassle of planning every detail.

What we particularly appreciate is the smooth round-trip transportation, which includes ferry crossings and coach rides, making it easy to focus on the fun rather than logistics. However, a potential challenge lies in the age of the transportation—some reviews mention older buses that could be less comfortable, especially on a warm day. This trip suits travelers who want a comprehensive, guided experience and don’t mind a long day with early starts.

If you love animals, engaging shows, and seeing exotic species in carefully designed habitats, this tour offers genuine value. Just remember, food and drinks are not included, so packing some snacks could be a smart move. This experience is especially well-suited for families, wildlife enthusiasts, or anyone looking for a full-day adventure from Gran Canaria that combines travel and entertainment seamlessly.

Key Points

• Convenient round-trip transport from Gran Canaria simplifies planning.
• Includes ferry crossing from Agaete to Tenerife, saving you the hassle of arranging your own.
• Loro Parque offers a diverse array of animals, from dolphins and sea lions to giant tortoises and exotic birds.
• Shows are a highlight, with live performances that appeal to all ages.
• Comfort of transport can vary; some travelers mention older buses, so prepare for the possibility of less modern amenities.
• Not including food and drinks means you should bring your own snacks or plan to purchase on-site.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Easy and Organized Transfers

One of the main advantages of this tour is the seamless logistics. You’ll be picked up from your hotel in southern Gran Canaria or from the Auditorio Alfredo Kraus in Las Palmas, with precise timing communicated after booking. The ferry from Agaete to Santa Cruz de Tenerife departs at 8:00 AM, taking roughly 72 minutes, which gives you a relaxed start to your day.

Once in Tenerife, a coach takes you directly to Loro Parque in Puerto de la Cruz. The route is straightforward, although some reviews mention that the coach used might be quite old and lacking air conditioning, which could make the journey less comfortable on hot days. It’s worth bringing water and perhaps a fan if it’s warm.

The Journey and Arrival

The ferry crossing offers the chance to enjoy some scenic views of the Atlantic, and many travelers appreciate the aspect of traveling between islands as part of the experience. Upon arriving in Tenerife, the bus gets you straight to the park, where you’ll find your entry ticket included, allowing you to skip long lines at the entrance.

Exploring Loro Parque

Once inside, the park offers a vast variety of exhibits and shows. The highlights include dolphin and sea lion performances, which are the main draws for many visitors. Watching these highly trained animals perform tricks and interact with their trainers is both entertaining and impressive.

Beyond the shows, you’ll find impressive animal habitats: giant Galápagos tortoises wandering their enclosures, western gorillas observing from shaded corners, and vibrant bird species like macaws and parakeets providing splashy color. The park’s layout allows you to explore at your own pace, and many travelers mention that the park is large but well-organized, making it easy to see everything without feeling rushed.

Favorite Attractions and Encounters

Reviewers have noted that the live animal shows are a highlight, with the dolphin and sea lion acts being particularly popular. The park’s effort to offer up-close encounters with exotic species enhances the experience, especially for families or wildlife lovers.

One visitor specifically mentioned “getting up close to parrot species, including parakeets and macaws,” which adds a personal touch that many will appreciate. The presence of rare animals like giant Galápagos tortoises also makes this park stand out compared to other European zoos.

The Value of the Experience

At a glance, the cost of this trip might seem high, especially considering the price increases noted by some reviewers — from €100 to €180 over two years. However, when you factor in the transport, ferry, entrance fee, and organized transfers, it provides a hassle-free way to visit Loro Parque without the need to book separate transport or worry about logistics.

The included skip-the-line entry is particularly valuable during peak times, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the animals rather than waiting in queues. Keep in mind that food and drinks are not included, so bringing snacks or planning to purchase on-site is advisable.

Considerations and Practical Tips

• Transport comfort: Be prepared for the possibility of older buses with limited air conditioning, as some travelers have mentioned feeling like they’re in a sauna. Wearing light clothing and bringing water helps.
• Timing: The long day means you should expect an early start and a return in the evening. It’s perfect for active travelers but might be too much for those preferring a relaxed pace.
• Weather preparedness: Tenerife can be warm, especially during summer months, so sun protection and hydration are essential.
• Booking flexibility: You can cancel up to 24 hours before, which adds confidence if plans change unexpectedly.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is an excellent fit for families wanting a fun-filled, educational day with animals, especially if they’re staying in Gran Canaria. It’s also perfect for wildlife enthusiasts eager to see a variety of species in one place, with the added convenience of organized transport.

It suits travelers who don’t mind a long day of activity and are comfortable with some logistical quirks, like older buses. If you’re looking for a stress-free, all-in-one experience that combines island-hopping with top-tier animal encounters, this tour hits the mark.

However, if you prefer more relaxed sightseeing or are sensitive to transportation comfort, you might want to consider other options or plan additional breaks during your stay.

Final Thoughts

The Day Trip to Loro Parque from Gran Canaria stands out as a practical, engaging way to see one of Europe’s premier zoological parks without the hassle of individual planning. Its combination of organized transfers, comprehensive park access, and diverse animal exhibits makes it a strong choice for families, animal lovers, and those eager to make the most of their Tenerife visit.

While the transportation might not be the newest or most luxurious, the value of skipping queues and having a full day dedicated to exploring the park’s fascinating inhabitants outweighs this consideration for most travelers. The shows and animal encounters are genuinely memorable, especially for children and wildlife aficionados.

Ultimately, if you’re after a well-organized, entertaining, and educational outing that brings you face-to-face with some of the most exotic species in Europe, this trip offers a solid, dependable option that’s hard to beat for convenience and fun.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes pickup and drop-off from selected hotels in southern Gran Canaria or from Auditorio Alfredo Kraus in Las Palmas, ferry transfer from Agaete to Santa Cruz de Tenerife, bus transfer to Loro Parque, and entry tickets to the park.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so it’s recommended to bring snacks or plan to buy something at the park.

How long is the ferry crossing?
The ferry from Agaete to Santa Cruz de Tenerife departs at 8:00 AM and takes approximately 72 minutes.

What should I bring with me?
Bring your passport or ID card, comfortable clothing, sun protection, water, and any personal essentials you’d need for a full day out.

Is the transportation comfortable?
Some reviews mention that the bus might be quite old and lacking air conditioning, which can impact comfort during warmer days.

Can I skip the line at the park?
Yes, the ticket includes a “skip-the-line” entrance, allowing you to enter quickly and spend more time enjoying the animals.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Absolutely. The variety of shows and animals makes it especially appealing for families with kids who love animals and outdoor activities.