Plantasia Tropical Zoo is marking a major milestone this February as it celebrates its 35th anniversary. Since opening its doors in 1990, the zoo has become a well-established attraction in Swansea, providing fun and educational experiences for schools, families, and tourists alike. Over the past three and a half decades, it has evolved from a tropical hothouse into a thriving educational and conservation centre.
A Look Back: The History of Plantasia
Plantasia first opened as a tropical hothouse, launched by Swansea Council as part of the Parc Tawe development. The striking glass pyramid quickly became known as Swansea’s own rainforest, offering visitors a glimpse into a world of exotic plants and wildlife.
By the mid-2010s, financial challenges placed Plantasia at risk of closure. However, strong public support, including a petition with over 1,600 signatures, led Swansea Council to invest £1.1 million into the attraction. In 2018-2019, the zoo underwent significant renovations, introducing a layout that mirrors the layers of the rainforest and creating an interactive, multi-sensory experience. Around this time, Parkwood Leisure took over operations, bringing further improvements and rebranding the site as Plantasia Tropical Zoo in 2021.
Present Day: Growth and Innovation
Today, Plantasia Tropical Zoo continues to flourish, welcoming 115,000 visitors in 2023. Home to over 40 animal species and more than 700 tropical plants, the zoo remains committed to conservation, participating in the European Endangered Species Programme for Egyptian tortoises.
In July 2024, the zoo introduced its Giants of the Past installation, offering visitors an innovative way to learn about prehistoric creatures. Featuring five life-sized replicas of ancient species placed next to their modern relatives, the exhibition is enhanced with state-of-the-art Augmented Reality (AR) technology provided by Magic Memories.
Paul Sheppard, Attraction Manager at Plantasia, told us about the impact of the installation….
“By combining history and technology, we’ve created an immersive learning experience that brings the past to life. Augmented Reality allows visitors to engage with these creatures in a unique way, deepening their understanding of history and conservation. Our goal is to inspire future generations to protect wildlife – ‘Bring the past to life. Protect the future.’”
The zoo also continues to expand its activities, offering experiences such as Wales’ only crocodile feeding experience, VIP zookeeper experiences, and interactive animal encounters. Private bookings for community groups, schools, and corporate groups add to the variety of tailored experiences available.
Additionally, Plantasia will launch Poacher’s Lair, the second game for its Jungle Escape experience, debuting this March. Jungle Escape is the world’s largest sixty-minute escape game, providing an engaging challenge for visitors, and introducing a new audience to the zoo
Commemorating 35 Years
To mark this special milestone, Plantasia Tropical Zoo has introduced a bespoke 35-year anniversary logo, incorporating elements of its original branding. This commemorative design features across the zoo’s website and advertising, celebrating its rich history while embracing the future.
As part of its 35th-anniversary celebrations, Plantasia Tropical Zoo will host a special half-term event from Saturday 22nd to Friday 28th February. Visitors can take part in themed activities at no extra cost, including birthday card crafts, a jungle trail competition with exciting prizes, and a free gift for children (subject to availability).
This milestone celebration reflects the zoo’s long-standing commitment to engaging and educating visitors about wildlife conservation.
Awards & Recognition
Plantasia Tropical Zoo’s commitment to conservation and innovation has earned it multiple accolades, including:
- Full BIAZA membership (2022): Recognising its excellence in zoo management and conservation efforts.
- Attraction of the Year (Club Hub UK Awards 2024): Honoured for its creativity and family-friendly environment.
- 3rd Place – Blooloop Innovation Awards 2024 (‘Guest Journey’ category): Recognising the impact of the Giants of the Past installation.
- Highly Commended – Swansea Bay Business Awards 2025: Recognised inthe ‘Tourism and Leisure Business of the Year’ and ‘Innovative Business of theYear’ categories.
As Plantasia Tropical Zoo looks to the future, it remains dedicated to delivering engaging, educational experiences that inspire a love for nature.
For more information on upcoming events and anniversary celebrations, go HERE.
