What it is
The Panaʻewa Rainforest Zoo and Gardens, located just outside Hilo on the Big Island of Hawaiʻi, is recognized as the only naturally occurring tropical rainforest zoo in the United States. Spanning 12 acres within the Panaʻewa Forest Reserve, the facility combines a zoological park with a botanical garden. It houses over 80 species of animals (nearly 300 individual animals), many of which thrive in rainforest climates, alongside a diverse collection of more than 40 species of tropical plants, flowers, and trees, with a strong emphasis on native Hawaiian flora. The exhibits are designed to integrate seamlessly with the existing natural terrain and vegetation.
Visitor experience
Visitors to the Panaʻewa Rainforest Zoo and Gardens can expect to explore paved walkways winding through a lush tropical landscape. The zoo features a variety of animals, including two Bengal tigers (Tzatziki, a white tiger, and Sriracha, an orange tiger), spider monkeys, lemurs, giant anteaters, American alligators, and various tropical birds, including macaws, vultures, and nene geese (the Hawaiian State bird). The botanical aspects include a wide array of orchids, bamboos, palms, and a water garden, providing an "impromptu botanical garden" experience.
The zoo is particularly family-friendly, offering a playground and covered pavilions for picnics. A popular petting zoo is available on Saturdays from 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM, and animal encounters and feedings are also scheduled throughout the day. The relatively small size of the zoo allows for an intimate viewing experience of the animals.
Logistics
- Area and Access: The zoo is located at 800 Stainback Hwy, Hilo, HI 96720, approximately 6 miles from downtown Hilo and 7 miles from Hilo International Airport. It is accessible by car, taxi, or the free Hele-On-Bus via Route 403 (Monday through Saturday).
- Operating Hours: The zoo is open daily from 10 AM to 4 PM, with the last entry at 3:30 PM. It is closed on Christmas Day, New Year's Day, and the first Thursday of each month for "ReZOOvenation."
- Admission: As of September 2025, admission fees are charged. For non-County of Hawaiʻi residents, adults (18+) are $13, children (3-17) are $5, and infants (0-2) are free. County residents pay reduced rates.
- Parking: Parking is available on-site.
- Duration: A visit typically takes one to two hours to walk through and see the animals and plants.
- Overall fit: It is ideal as a quick stop or a half-day activity, especially for families with young children.
Safety and cautions
- Rainforest Environment: The zoo is situated in a natural rainforest and receives over 125 inches of rain annually. Visitors should bring rain gear and sunscreen. Mosquito repellent is also recommended.
- Accessibility: The zoo is fully ADA accessible, and mobility scooters are available for rent, though a 48-hour weekday advance reservation is recommended. Scooters must remain on paved walkways at a slow speed.
- Zoo Rules: Prohibited items include balloons, radios, cooking fires, fireworks, weapons, and various wheeled devices (bicycles, skateboards, etc.). Guests are asked to stay on walkways, behind barriers, and not to feed, scream at, or tease the animals. Pets are not allowed, with exceptions for service animals.
- Photography: Non-commercial photography for personal use is permitted in public areas, provided visitors stay behind barriers. Commercial photography requires prior authorization.
Editorial take
The Panaʻewa Rainforest Zoo and Gardens is a charming and unique attraction, particularly appealing to families with young children and anyone interested in seeing rainforest flora and fauna in a natural, less commercialized setting. Its status as the only tropical rainforest zoo in the U.S., combined with its accessible layout and affordable (though no longer free for non-residents as of late 2025) admission, makes it a worthwhile visit for those in the Hilo area. It's best prioritized by travelers looking for a leisurely, educational experience rather than a large, comprehensive zoological park. Those short on time or seeking more adrenaline-pumping activities might consider it a lower priority. It should not be confused with larger, more extensive botanical gardens on the Big Island, although it does offer significant botanical interest. Its distinct rainforest setting differentiates it from typical zoos.
Source notes
- Pana'ewa Rainforest Zoo & Gardens Plan Your Visit: https://www.parks.hawaiicounty.gov/divisions/pana-ewa-recreational-complex/pana-ewa-rainforest-zoo-gardens/plan-your-visit/-fsiteid-6#!/
- Pana'ewa Rainforest Zoo & Gardens (Hawaii County, HI Parks & Recreation): https://www.parks.hawaiicounty.gov/divisions/pana-ewa-recreational-complex/pana-ewa-rainforest-zoo-gardens
- Panaʻewa Rainforest Zoo & Gardens - Hilo - Love Big Island: https://www.lovebigisland.com/hilo/panaewa-zoo/
- Panaewa Rainforest Zoo and Garden - Big Island Guide: https://www.bigislandguide.com/panaewa-rainforest-zoo-garden
- Pana'ewa Rainforest Zoo & Gardens - Hawaii Visitors & Convention Bureau: https://www.hvcb.org/vendor/panaewa-rainforest-zoo-gardens/
- Stroll Through Hilo's Panaewa Zoo, the Only Rainforest Zoo in the US | Hawaii.com: https://www.hawaii.com/things-to-do/oahu/stroll-through-hilos-panaewa-zoo-the-only-rainforest-zoo-in-the-us/
