Terra Natura

Terra Natura is a zoo with a gentler philosophy. Rather than rows of cages, its animals live in landscaped enclosures that use water, rock and plants as barriers, so you often see lions, tigers, elephants, lemurs and exotic birds in settings that look natural. Located in Benidorm and set into the hillside, the park is divided into themed zones that take you through different continents and climates. Shows, feeding times and talks add variety through the day. It is a favourite for families because the layout is easy to navigate, the routes are shaded in places and the animals are the main event. A combined ticket often includes Aqua Natura, the park's neighbouring water park, so you can mix animals and splashing in one day. The park supports conservation and breeding programmes, and information boards explain species, habitats and threats. Visitors who enjoy watching wildlife and learning along the way will find it a calm contrast to the theme-park thrills elsewhere in the resort.

A good day begins with the large animals while they are active in the cooler morning hours. Move through the zones at a relaxed pace, look for the timed shows, and take a break for lunch when the heat peaks. The terrain includes slopes and steps, but the main routes are paved and manageable for strollers and many wheelchairs, though some viewpoints are steep. Bring sun protection and water, and wear shoes suited to walking.

Because animals are more active when it is cooler, spring, autumn and summer mornings are the best times for sightings. In winter the park may close certain areas or reduce hours, so check the calendar. If you choose a combined ticket, plan the water park for the afternoon when you want to cool down. Pack swimwear and a towel and use lockers for valuables. Meals and snacks are available on site, and picnicking rules vary.

Ethical visitors may want to read the park's conservation information and decide whether it matches their values. Getting there is easy by car or taxi from Benidorm centre, with parking on site. Terra Natura works well on a day when you want less intensity than a roller coaster park but still want a full day out.

Make the visit richer by joining a talk or feeding session, which are usually included in the ticket and explain the behaviour of the animals. Bring binoculars if you have them, since some enclosures are large and the animals can rest at a distance. Keep voices low near the habitats, and never feed the animals.

Stroller users should ask at the entrance for the easiest route around the hillside. If you add the water park, pack a dry bag with swimwear and a towel, and leave a change of clothes in a locker. The mix of calm animal watching and splashy fun is what makes the park work so well for families with different ages.