Isle of Wight Animal Attractions

The Isle of Wight features a large and brilliant selection of animal attractions, wildlife parks and zoos. On the Island you can visit a farm and meet sheep, cows, chickens and pigs as well as donkeys, rabbits and guinea pigs – some with family friendly areas where you can see them up close. At other attractions you’ll see some of the world’s most beautiful and rare animals, ranging from tigers, lions and leopards to monkeys, meerkats and lemurs.

You can watch dramatic flying displays featuring birds of prey from around the world. There are tropical birds to see with collections of penguins, parrots and even elegant flamingos. And that’s not all! There are also impressive tropical houses with hundreds of butterflies roaming freely as well as a great range of bugs and reptiles.

The Isle of Wight landscape and surroundings make our animal attractions truly unique experiences. You’ll even be able to spot the odd red squirrel too at some of our woodland areas like Borthwood Copse. Below are more details about the wide range of attractions you can visit to get your animal fix.

Amazon World

Make your way through the Island’s very own amazon and walk through jungle rainforests full of colourful rare birds. Amazon World is the largest exotic zoo on the Isle of Wight, featuring toucans, marmosets, penguins, flamingos, otters, ocelot, monkeys and more. You’ll be able to meet some of the animals and learn about the conservation of wildlife and rainforests across the world. Step into Madagascar, walk with Lemurs and discover the lost temple which lies buried in sand. Click here for more information.

Butterfly World

Step into a world of beautiful butterflies and learn about their life cycle from egg to pupa to adult at Butterfly World. Take your time to explore and watch butterflies dance in the air around you while enjoying the natural environment created for them. You can even visit Italian & Japanese gardens, koi ponds, fountains, jumping jets, cafe, Medina garden centre and much more. Click here for more information.

Wildheart Animal Sanctuary

Based in an old fort and looking out towards the sandy beach of Sandown, the Wildheart Animal Sanctuary is home to a wide variety of animals with a special interest in tigers and lemurs. In this popular, family run sanctuary you’ll have a fun and engaging time as you discover and see a truly impressive collection of animals – all lovingly looked after. Click here to find out more.

Monkey Haven

Go wild at the multi award-winning Monkey Haven. Learn about primates at Monkey University, and meet the crew - including mischievous monkeys, amazing owls, incredible reptiles and meerkats. There are also regular keeper talks during the day, so you can find out even more about what makes the animals tick. Click here for more information.

Tapnell Farm Park

Inside this all-weather attraction you’ll find a wide range of hands-on animal experiences and indoor and outdoor play – with loads to keep kids and adults entertained at Tapnell Farm Park. Meet a friendly mob of wallabies, spend time with rabbits and guinea pigs in Pets Corner and see sheep, pigs, meerkats and even alpacas. You might also be lucky enough to meet some baby animals too. Click here for more information.

West Wight Alpacas

Nestled in the tranquil countryside of the West Wight, discover the hidden gem that is West Wight Alpacas. Walk around the farm and meet the alpacas, llamas, pigs, goats, sheep and more. You can even take an alpaca on a farm trek or take part in a llama agility session. Let the kids burn off steam in the play area whilst you feast on wood-fired pizza, homemade cake and artisan coffee at The Llama Tree Pizzeria & Bistro. Click here for more information.

Plan your Island adventure

Start planning your Island adventure by taking a look at our accommodation page to see the great accommodation on offer. For a hassle-free start to your holiday plans, many accommodation providers can arrange your ferry travel for you when you book your stay with them - often saving you money on the overall cost.

Why not take a look at the things to do page to find even more great activities and adventures you can experience during your stay. And with upcoming events such as the Warner Leisure Hotels sponsored Isle of Wight Walking Festival, there’s lots to do and see.