Parque Zoológico Nacional

Parque Zoológico Nacional is a fascinating zoo in Santo Domingo, spread over 125 hectares of forested hills.

It's home to some 82 species of plants and a diverse collection of exotic and endemic animals, including African lions, Bengal tigers and the critically endangered solenodont, a mammal found only in the Dominican Republic.

The zoo is famous for its natural enclosures with a small number of cages, allowing many of the animals to roam freely. A snake pavilion and a large outdoor aviary are particularly notable attractions.