Jungle Island

Located on Watson Island, Jungle Island is one of Miami’s most iconic wildlife attractions—blending lush botanical settings with exotic animals, thrilling shows, and hands-on experiences. Originally opened in 1936 as Parrot Jungle, the park has evolved into a modern-day eco-adventure full of opportunities for discovery, education, and fun.

Recommended For

Families and kids who love animals and outdoor activities
Eco-conscious travelers and wildlife enthusiasts
School groups and field trips looking for educational adventures
Anyone interested in up-close animal interactions and tropical settings

What to See & Do

Enjoy shows like Winged Wonders and Wild Encounter, featuring birds and big cats
Experience the wild on Wild Adventures safari-style programs
Interact with animals through VIP encounters, petting barns, and private sessions
Explore the Lion’s Den, the park’s largest exhibit, home to rare white tigers, ligers, and lions

Featured Wildlife

Meet rare orangutan twins Pumpkin and Peanut, plus fan favorites like Connie, Sinbad, and Hannah
See primates like squirrel monkeys, gibbons, baboons, chimpanzees, and gorillas
Marvel at birds like the Hyacinth Macaw, Black Palm Cockatoo, Eclectus Parrots, and flamingos
Visit reptiles like American alligators, Burmese pythons, and Pueblan milksnakes
Discover fish species including koi, Florida gar, and tropical fish

Unique Attractions

Parrot Cove: Miami’s only private beach with water views of Biscayne Bay
Rainforest Riptide: A floating obstacle course with slides, trampolines, and swings
Jungle Slumber: Overnight camps with scavenger hunts, night hikes, and animal encounters
Manu Encounter & Kangaroo Konnection: Personal encounters with kangaroos and macaws

Educational Programs

Participate in Rainforest Adventures, Reptile Showcases, and Everglades Encounters
Learn with hands-on Animal Survivor Lessons and Q&A sessions with trainers
Custom programs available through the Education Department
Field trips highlight lemurs, penguins, kangaroos, and Everglades habitats

Conservation & History

Founded in 1936 by Franz and Louise Scherr as Parrot Jungle
Reopened as Jungle Island on Watson Island in 2003 after Hurricane Andrew
Dedicated to wildlife education and habitat conservation
Works with TIGERS and other conservation groups to protect endangered species

Botanical Highlights

Walk through lush environments filled with bromeliads, staghorn ferns, and Yellow Cordia
Discover the beauty of Tithonia Diversifolia—a year-round bloomer used in eco-farming