Zoomarine Algarve named world’s best theme park

Located in Guia, in the municipality of Albufeira, the attraction won the “Theme Park” category for the third consecutive year, following its success in 2024 and 2025.

The park said the award reflects its combination of visitor entertainment, environmental education, and efforts to protect wildlife and natural habitats.

Established in 1991, Zoomarine has expanded beyond traditional leisure attractions, with conservation projects and educational initiatives playing an important role.

The World Luxury Travel Awards have recognised organisations and experiences across the tourism industry since 2020, with winners selected through a voting process involving both industry professionals and consumers.

As reported by Zoomarine, travellers worldwide cast more than 100,000 votes each year.

Conservation efforts

In addition to the rides and aquatic attractions, Zoomarine supports projects focused on biodiversity and marine life protection in both natural habitats and controlled environments.

Among its main initiatives is Porto d’Abrigo, established in 2002 as Portugal’s first marine species rehabilitation centre, dedicated to rescuing injured or distressed marine animals, helping them recover and returning them to their natural environment whenever possible.

The park is also home to the first Species Survival Centre dedicated to Behavioural Change, developed in partnership with the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), which brings social sciences into marine conservation strategies to encourage more responsible interactions between people and the natural world.

These initiatives form part of Zoomarine’s broader approach to combining tourism with environmental awareness, giving visitors opportunities to learn about wildlife and the importance of preserving it.

International recognition

Tiago Pierotti, Chief Executive of Zoomarine Algarve, commented on the latest achievement, saying the third consecutive win was a source of pride for the team and recognition of its efforts to maintain the quality of the visitor experience.

The attraction offers zoological exhibits, immersive habitats, educational presentations, and opportunities to get closer to different species, as well as water rides, themed areas, and what it describes as Portugal’s largest wave beach, catering to visitors of different ages and interests.

This latest award adds to Zoomarine’s international recognition, highlighting its position in the tourism and entertainment sector while drawing attention to its work in environmental education and wildlife conservation.