North Medellín · Attraction
Vivario Explora
Medellín's frog and reptile refuge
In short
The Vivario is the frog and reptile house inside Parque Explora, in north Medellín. It reopened in September 2025 as a refuge for about 65 amphibians and reptiles that were rescued from illegal trade and can't go back to the wild, and it's a short, worthwhile stop on any visit to Parque Explora or the aquarium.
In this guide (5 parts)
What it's like
Back in 2012 we wrote about the "biological" exhibit at Parque Explora, a room of frogs, tarantulas and snakes that drew crowds of kids. That space has since been completely rebuilt with a different purpose. Today's Vivario is a refuge: every animal in it was taken from illegal trade or illegal ownership by Colombia's environmental authorities and can't be returned to the place it came from.
The change shows in the design. Parque Explora's conservation and animal welfare team rebuilt 16 public enclosures as habitats planned around each animal's needs, with planting, water and hiding places, rather than bare display cases. It's a calm, quiet room, and it rewards patience: many of the animals are small or well camouflaged.
The animals
The Vivario cares for about 65 animals. Among them are:
- Frogs and toads, including the bright golden poison dart frog from Colombia's Pacific rainforest.
- Snakes.
- Turtles.
- Axolotls, the pale salamanders that keep their gills as adults.
- Lizards.
The signs tell the stories of how animals end up in trafficking and why so many rescued animals can't simply be released. It's a gentle way to talk with kids about not buying wild animals as pets.
Conservation behind the scenes
Beyond the public rooms, the same team runs assisted breeding programs, genetic banks and conservation research for fish, corals, amphibians and reptiles. The Vivario also hosts Biofilia, an exhibition shared with 7 Colombian institutions that work on protecting biodiversity.
Tips for your visit
- Pair it with the aquarium. The Medellín Aquarium is in the same complex, and together they make a good half day.
- Go slowly. Take a minute at each habitat. Animals that look absent are often just hidden.
- Check before you go. Parque Explora's hours change around holidays, and the official site lists what each ticket covers.
- Next door: The free Jardín Botánico is a short walk away.
Getting there
Take metro Line A to Universidad station. Parque Explora is right outside the station exit, and the Vivario is inside. For more family days out, see our guide to things to do in Medellín.
Frequently asked questions
Where do the Vivario's animals come from?
They were rescued by Colombia's environmental authorities from illegal trade or illegal ownership, and they can't be returned to the wild.
When did the Vivario reopen?
It reopened in September 2025 after being rebuilt as a refuge.
Can I see poison dart frogs there?
The golden poison dart frog is one of the Vivario's best-known residents. Which animals are on view can change, so check the official page.
Do I need a separate ticket?
The Vivario is part of Parque Explora. Check the official website for which ticket covers which areas.
