I’ll admit—I’m not usually a zoo person, but Loro Parque in northern Tenerife completely won me over. Frequently ranked as one of the best zoos in the world (often at the top of TripAdvisor’s global list), it’s far more than just animals in enclosures. The grounds are lush, beautifully designed gardens, blending tropical greenery with winding paths and peaceful corners.

The park is home to over 400 species, with world-leading conservation and breeding programs—especially for parrots. But what truly amazed us were the shows:

• The sea lion show was full of humor and charm.
• The orca performance was powerful and mesmerizing (and educational—highlighting ocean awareness).
• The dolphin show was graceful and full of energy.
• And yes, the parrot show was surprisingly clever and engaging!

After a full day of wildlife wonder, we checked into a tiny cliffside cabin nearby. The views were unreal—sunsets over the ocean, waves crashing against the rocks below, and every time the sea hit the cliffs, the whole cabin would gently shift. Honestly? It was more adventurous than I’d recommend, but the rest of the family absolutely loved it.

A day that started with skepticism ended in awe—and a little seasickness on land.