Rancho Texas

Rancho Texas Lanzarote Park is tucked away just behind Puerto del Carmen and has long been a favourite with families living here and visiting the island. Since opening its doors in 1985, it has gradually transformed from a modest animal collection into a wonderful full-day outing, with animal encounters, entertaining live shows, a water park and themed areas all set among beautifully landscaped gardens.

With around 400,000 visitors each year, the park is always lively, and families with children of all ages will find plenty to keep everyone entertained from morning until late afternoon. Even adults visiting without little ones are often pleasantly surprised, especially by the birds of prey display and the sea lion show, which are both well worth seeing and always draw a crowd.

The park is themed throughout with touches of the American Wild West and Native American culture, which gives it a unique charm you will not find in a typical zoo. As you wander between the wooden buildings, totem poles, tepee tents and cactus gardens, you can enjoy lovely views over Puerto del Carmen and the coastline from its hillside setting.

If you are looking for a truly memorable experience, the dolphin interaction at Rancho Texas Lanzarote Park is something we often recommend. Here, you have the chance to step into the water with bottlenose dolphins, guided by the caring and knowledgeable marine trainers who always put both your safety and the dolphins’ wellbeing first.

During your time in the water, you can paddle alongside these remarkable animals, feel their strength and grace, and learn about their lives from the trainers who know them best. The activities are gentle and based on what the dolphins naturally enjoy, and it is clear that they take real pleasure in meeting new friends.

The session itself lasts around half an hour, with a friendly introduction and safety chat before you get in the water. You do need to be a confident swimmer, and there are some age and height limits for younger guests. Wetsuits and everything else you need are provided, and there is the option to have a professional photo taken so you can remember the day.

Numbers are kept small to make sure the experience feels personal and to keep things calm for the dolphins. It is a good idea to book ahead, especially in the busier months from May to October. While it is one of the more expensive activities at the park, many guests say it is the highlight of their Lanzarote holiday.

One of the most memorable experiences at Rancho Texas Lanzarote Park is the sea lion encounter. Here, you have the chance to step right into the water with these gentle, intelligent creatures. The park’s friendly handlers are always on hand to guide you, making sure you feel comfortable as you stroke, hug, and even share a sea lion kiss. The sea lions themselves are wonderfully playful and sociable, and the whole experience feels relaxed and genuine, rather than something put on for show.

This is an activity that appeals to all ages, though little ones will need to be with an adult. Each session lasts about 20 to 30 minutes, starting with a helpful briefing so everyone knows how to interact safely with the sea lions. It’s a firm favourite with visitors, so I always suggest booking ahead, especially if you’re visiting during the busier months.

The encounter happens in a special pool area designed just for the sea lions, where they seem completely at ease. There’s also a professional photographer on hand to capture those special moments, so you can take home a lovely reminder of your day.

Whether you’re visiting with family, as a couple, or on your own, the sea lion encounter is often mentioned as a highlight of a day out at Rancho Texas.

The sea lion show at Rancho Texas is always a favourite with visitors, and it is easy to see why so many people make time for it during their stay. The amphitheatre, with its spacious pool and comfortable seating, is the perfect spot to watch the resident California sea lions at play. There is plenty of jumping, ball balancing and synchronised swimming, along with a good dose of laughter as the sea lions interact with their keepers. You can tell the animals are well looked after and seem to genuinely enjoy the attention, which gives the whole show a cheerful, relaxed feel. The keepers are great at sharing interesting snippets about the sea lions and their daily routines, so you leave not only entertained but having picked up a few new facts as well.

There are usually two or three shows each day, with the first one starting around 11.30 in the morning and the last finishing by mid-afternoon, though the times can shift a little depending on the season. The latest schedule is always posted at the entrance and on the park’s website. I recommend arriving 15 or 20 minutes early, especially in the busy summer months, as seats tend to fill up quickly. If you choose a spot in the front rows, be ready for a splash or two – children always seem to love it, while adults sometimes get a surprise! After the show, you might have the chance to have your photo taken near the sea lions for a small extra fee. The amphitheatre does have some shaded areas, but if you end up in the sun, a hat is always a good idea.

The birds of prey display is one of those surprises that tends to delight even the most seasoned visitors. Many arrive with modest expectations, but this show is truly something special. Set in an open-air amphitheatre carved into the hillside, the birds soar freely above the arena and out across the Lanzarote landscape. Eagles, Harris hawks, barn owls, vultures and falcons all make an appearance, each showing off their unique style of flight and hunting.

The moment that stays with most people is when the larger birds sweep low over the audience, so close you can feel the rush of air from their wings. It is a thrilling experience, and you can always hear the gasps of amazement from the crowd. The falconers are clearly passionate about their birds, and their connection is obvious throughout the show. As they share stories about each species, their habitats and the challenges they face in the wild, you gain a real appreciation for these remarkable creatures. Watching a peregrine falcon reach full speed across the arena is unforgettable, and when the vultures glide in from distant perches, you truly get a sense of their size and presence—something no photograph can quite capture.

Much like the sea lion show, the birds of prey display runs two or three times a day and tends to fill up quickly. If you can, try to find a seat in the upper tiers—the view of the birds soaring against the Lanzarote sky is well worth it. The show lasts about 25 to 30 minutes, but the memories linger long after.

The parrot show is always a favourite with families, especially those with younger children. It has a lighter, more playful feel than the other performances, and the colourful macaws, cockatoos and Amazon parrots never fail to delight as they ride tiny bicycles, sort coloured rings and even answer questions with their own trained responses. There is plenty of laughter, too, as some of the parrots have clearly mastered the art of comic timing. The keepers know each bird well and enjoy sharing their personalities with the audience. If you have visited before, you might even spot a familiar feathered face or two.

One of the highlights for many children is the chance to get involved. The keepers invite little ones up to meet the parrots, help out with the tricks and even pose for a photo or two. They are wonderful at making everyone feel comfortable, whether your child is a bit shy or bursting with excitement. The show takes place in a smaller, covered area, so it is a handy option if you are looking for some shade or if the weather is less than perfect. It usually lasts about 20 minutes and is performed at least twice a day. While it may not be as dramatic as the birds of prey display, it has a gentle charm all its own, and many families tell us it is the highlight of their visit.

Rancho Texas is home to both African lions and white tigers, two of the park’s most popular residents and always a favourite with visitors’ cameras. The lions can be seen from a raised viewing platform, safely set behind glass and barriers, giving you a wonderful view across their enclosure. Like most big cats, they tend to rest during the hottest hours, so if you are hoping to catch them on the move, it’s best to visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon when they are more active and often interacting with each other.

The white tigers have their own enclosure nearby, with the same easy viewing and plenty of space to watch them relax or explore. These striking animals are actually Bengal tigers with a rare colouration, and the park’s information boards do a good job of explaining their story and the wider challenges facing tigers in the wild. While the enclosures are not the largest you’ll find, they do include pools, shaded spots and enrichment to keep the animals engaged. If you can time your visit for feeding, it’s well worth it, as this is when the big cats are at their most lively. Just ask at the entrance for the day’s schedule.

The reptile house is a favourite spot for many, especially when you need a little respite from the Lanzarote sunshine. Inside, you’ll find one of the park’s most interesting collections. The Nile crocodiles and American alligators are truly impressive up close, especially for children who may have only seen them on television before. Most of the time, the crocodiles seem perfectly still, but if you catch a keeper’s talk, you’ll learn that this is their way of saving energy between meals. It’s always a surprise to discover just how quickly they can move when they choose.

There’s plenty more to see beyond the crocodiles and alligators. The reptile house is home to a variety of snakes, from pythons to boas, as well as iguanas, geckos, chameleons and monitor lizards. The terrariums are always tidy and clearly labelled, so you can learn a little about where each animal comes from and how it lives in the wild. Some of the lizards are in open-topped enclosures, which means you can get a really good look at them. The temperature inside is carefully managed, so it’s pleasantly cool in summer and cosy in winter—a real bonus on Lanzarote. Even children who aren’t sure about reptiles often find themselves fascinated, especially when they spot a chameleon changing colour or a gecko making its way up the glass. It’s not a huge area, so you can take your time and see everything in about 15 or 20 minutes.

One of the real pleasures here is wandering through the walk-through aviaries, where you step inside a netted haven and find yourself sharing space with free-flying birds. It is a world away from peering into cages. The birds move about as they please, sometimes settling on a perch nearby or swooping gently across your path. The tropical aviary is the largest and most vibrant, filled with parakeets, lorikeets, finches and other colourful characters, all set among lush greenery, flowing water and well-placed feeding spots.

There is also an aviary dedicated to birds from the Canary Islands and the wider Macaronesian region, which I think is a thoughtful touch. Many people who visit Lanzarote are surprised by the variety of local birdlife. 

If you fancy a closer encounter, you can pick up some bird feed from the dispensers by the entrances. The lorikeets are especially friendly and will happily eat from your hand, which always brings a smile to children and makes for some lovely photos. These aviaries are peaceful corners of the park, a welcome contrast to the livelier show areas, and perfect for taking things at your own pace.

Rancho Texas has really embraced its Wild West theme, and you can feel it as soon as you step inside. The western town area is a favourite, with its wooden-fronted buildings that look just like a saloon, a sheriff’s office and a general store. Some of these are home to gift shops and places to grab a bite to eat. The attention to detail is impressive and gives the whole area a genuine feel, rather than something thrown together. It’s a great spot for photos, especially if you have children who love to imagine themselves as cowboys for the day.

The Native American village is another highlight, with its tepees, totem poles and displays that give a glimpse into indigenous North American cultures. Here you’ll also find some of the park’s most popular residents: the bison and the black-tailed prairie dogs. The bison are truly impressive up close, and the information boards nearby tell the story of their history and how close they came to disappearing. The prairie dogs are always a hit with children, who can spend ages watching them pop in and out of their burrows and interact with each other. It’s a part of the park that always seems to draw a crowd, and for good reason.

Cactus gardens link the themed areas and suit the dry Lanzarote climate naturally. The overall effect is a park that feels like it has a coherent identity rather than a random collection of animal enclosures, which adds to the enjoyment of walking through it.

The petting zoo is always a favourite with families, especially those with little ones in tow. Tucked away in its own safe corner of the park, it invites you to step inside and wander among the animals, rather than just looking on from a distance. The goats are the real stars here, from sturdy adults to playful kids, and they are wonderfully patient with young visitors. Donkeys wait in their own area, happy to be stroked over the fence, while rabbits rest in low pens where children can gently reach in to say hello, always with a watchful adult nearby.

You can pick up a handful of animal feed from the dispensers for just a coin or two, and for many toddlers, this is when the magic really happens. Suddenly, they are surrounded by gentle, eager goats hoping for a treat. The staff are always close by, keeping an eye out and making sure everyone, animals included, is happy and safe. There are hand washing stations at the exits, so you can clean up before heading off to explore the rest of the park. The petting zoo itself is a simple pleasure and doesn’t take long to visit, but it’s not unusual to see families returning again and again throughout the day. It’s a quiet spot, but for young children, the chance to meet and touch real animals is often the highlight of their visit.

The water park at Rancho Texas is a real favourite with families, and it is easy to see why many end up spending the whole day here rather than just a morning. The splash zone is always a hit with the little ones, thanks to its shallow pools, tipping buckets, water jets and small slides that are just right for toddlers and younger children. It is a bright and cheerful spot where the under-8s can play for hours, while parents can unwind nearby and soak up the Lanzarote sunshine.

A little further on from the splash zone, there is a large pool area with plenty of sunbeds scattered around the edges, so it is easy to find a spot to settle in. The lazy river winds gently through the gardens, offering a relaxing float, while the wave pool is always a source of excitement for older children and teenagers. For those after a bit more adventure, the bigger water slides are a real draw, especially for the 8 to 14 age group.

There are changing rooms with showers on site, and you can rent a locker for a small fee if you want to keep your valuables safe while you enjoy the water.

Do remember to bring your own towels, as these are not provided, although you can pick one up in the gift shop if needed. The pools are heated during the cooler months, so the water park is a good option even outside the height of summer. Many families find it works well to visit the animal shows and exhibits in the morning while it is still cool, then move on to the water park after lunch. There is a handy snack bar right by the pool, so you are never far from a cold drink or something to eat. In summer, the sunbeds tend to fill up quickly by early afternoon, so it is worth finding your spot before lunch if you want to be sure of a place.

The park is easy to get around for most visitors, with paved paths and ramps thoughtfully placed at the main changes in level. There are a few slopes here and there, which are gentle enough for powered wheelchairs, but if you use a manual chair or have limited mobility, you might find some of the uphill stretches a bit of a workout. I always suggest taking your time and making use of the benches dotted along the way for a breather. The staff at the entrance are friendly and happy to point out the best routes to avoid the steeper parts, and there is clear accessibility information available as you arrive.

The amphitheatres for the shows are set out with steps, but each one has spaces at the sides or on the ground level where wheelchairs can settle in with a clear view. I recommend arriving a little early if you want to be sure of a good spot. There are accessible toilets dotted around the park, and if you are visiting with little ones, you can hire a pushchair at the entrance, which is handy if you prefer not to bring your own on the shuttle bus.

The park really does have something for everyone, whatever your age. The youngest visitors love the petting zoo, splash zone and the ever-popular parrot show. Children between five and twelve are right in the heart of the action and will want to try everything. Teenagers sometimes feel the park is more for younger kids, but the birds of prey, the big cats and the water slides usually win them over, especially if they know the water park is on the agenda. For older visitors, the shows and animal exhibits can be enjoyed at a gentle pace. The hillside setting means there is a bit of walking involved, but there are plenty of benches, shaded spots and cafes to rest and take in the surroundings. If you prefer a more relaxed visit, focusing on the shows and the flatter areas makes for a very pleasant half day.

From March 2026, adult tickets are €36.00, while children's tickets (for ages 3 to 12) are €24.00, and little ones under 2 can come along for free. Prices can shift a little depending on when and where you book, but I always recommend checking the park’s own website first. Booking online in advance usually saves you about 10 percent and lets you breeze past the ticket queue when you arrive. Some hotels and tour operators also sell tickets, though these are sometimes a touch more expensive.

Getting to the park is easy, with free shuttle buses running from the main resorts: Puerto del Carmen, Costa Teguise and Playa Blanca. If you’re staying in Puerto del Carmen, you’ll find the journey especially quick, as the park is just up the hill from town. Pickup times and stops are listed on the website and included with your ticket, so there’s no need to worry about missing your ride. The shuttle is a great way to avoid hiring a car or sorting out taxis, and it means you can relax from the moment you set off. If you do decide to drive, there’s a free car park right at the entrance.

The park opens its gates at 9.30am, and I always suggest arriving early if you can. The morning air is cooler and perfect for a gentle stroll, and you’ll find the animals are at their liveliest. Early birds also get to enjoy the first shows before the crowds arrive. You’ll be given a show schedule at the entrance, so it’s easy to plan your day and make sure you don’t miss any of the main performances.

You’ll find two sit-down restaurants inside the park, along with plenty of snack bars dotted around the grounds. The food is what you’d expect from a theme park—burgers, pizza, chicken, chips, sandwiches and ice cream—and prices are a bit higher than you’ll find outside. Many families choose to bring their own food and water, which is absolutely allowed. There are shaded picnic areas with tables, perfect for a relaxed lunch break. No matter what you decide, I always recommend bringing plenty of water, as walking the hillside paths in the Lanzarote sun can leave you thirsty quicker than you might think.

A few practical tips from someone who’s spent many sunny days here: don’t forget your sun cream (and remember to reapply after any time in the water park), hats for everyone, and comfortable closed-toe shoes for exploring the hilly paths. Flip-flops are fine for the pool, but not so much for walking around. If you’re planning to enjoy the water park, pack swimwear, towels and a change of clothes. It’s also handy to have a little cash for animal feed or locker hire, though most food outlets do take cards.