One of the most expansive zoos in North America, the Miami Metro Zoo owns 740 acres of which 327 are developed. The zoo has more than 2000 animals from 500 species, over 40 endangered species, 70 species of birds and 1,200 plants. The zoo is home to many fascinating animals as well as the more commonly known: tiger, African lion, spotted hyenna, clouded leopard, Himalayan black bear, sloth, meerkat, camel, kudu, gazelle, antelope, zebra, elephant, giraffe, hippopotamus, rhinoceros, tapir, warthog, gorilla, chimpanzee, orangutan, monkey, koala, tree kangaroo, porcupine, ostrich, condor, vulture, stork, flamingo, komodo dragon, python and tortoises.
One of the new exhibits at Metro Zoo is the Amazon and Beyond. It is divided into three areas that surround the Village Plaza: Gateway to Tropical America. The three areas are: the Cloud Forest, the Amazon river and Flooded Forests and the Atlantic Forest and Pantanal. You'll find animals such as a giant anteater, crocodiles, eagles, otters, howler monkeys, hummingbirds, snakes jaguars and more representing these different regions in Central and South America.
Another popular attraction at the zoo is the Children's Zoo. Here kids of all ages can visit the Toadstool exhibit which is an air-conditioned area with the zoo's small reptiles, amphibian and invertebrates. They can also visit the Meerkat Exhibit and the butterfly garden with many colorful butterflies and insects.
For your convenience, there are several ways to move through the zoo. Riding the monorail provides an opportunity to get an aerial view of the zoo while riding in a comfortable air conditioned vehicle. The monorail stops at four different locations throughout the zoo. The safari cycle is a great way to see the zoo at your leisure while exercising. You can stop and walk to exhibits along the way. Two sizes of cycles are available. The small cycle comfortable seats 5 people and the large cycle seats 8.
Asia and Africa Tram Tours are also available. These provide a comfortable ride and a narrated tour. As always, walking is another good option, however, given the size of the zoo and the Miami heat, this might not be the best choice especially in summer months.
