Asian Tropics Complex

Asian Tropics will feature a diverse array of fascinating animals, many of which are highly endangered.  Zoo guests will be able to explore the 10-acre complex to discover the rich history of animals in Asian culture, their complex relationship with humans and the efforts by Denver Zoo and its partners around the world to protect their futures.  Visitors also will learn how the zoo’s dedicated staff cares for some of its largest residents. 

Click on the map below for descriptions!




1. Large Animal Habitats:  Five habitats, which will be seven times larger than the current pachyderm exhibit, will provide new homes for Asian elephants, Indian rhinos and Malayan tapirs.  Animals will rotate among the different habitats throughout the day, taking advantage of water features, mud wallows, sand pits and scratching trees to encourage physical and psychological health.  Every day at Asian Tropics will be different for both animals and zoo guests alike.





2. Elephant Barn:  The 18,000-square-foot building will accommodate 8-12 elephants and include private “bedrooms” as well as a communal “parlor” for public viewing.  Zoo guests will have an opportunity to learn how keepers care for elephants through training and animal care demonstrations.

3. Animal Crossings:  In order to reach all five exhibit habitats, elephants, rhinos and tapirs will cross two public pathways in Asian Tropics several times each day.  As these impressive animals use either the at-grade crossing (much like a railroad crossing) or the specially-designed elephant bridge, guests will get an up-close view of animals, while zoo staff explain the transfer process and animal care.

4. El Pomar Asian Pavilion:  At the core of an Asian village, El Pomar Asian Pavilion will house indoor exhibits for flying fox (bats), fishing cats, binturong and other Asian species.  Adjacent outdoor exhibits will feature black leopards, cranes and storks.




5. Gibbon Islands:  Acrobatic gibbons will swing from tree to tree directly over a pedestrian boardwalk on a series of island habitats.  Guests throughout the zoo will be able to hear these vocal primates when they call to one another.

6. Rhino/Tapir Night Quarters:  Indian rhinos and Malayan tapirs will have spacious new night quarters designed to house breeding pairs and their offspring.  During the day, rhinos and tapirs, along with elephants, will rotate among the five large animal habitats.

7. McGrath Family Amphitheater:  This shaded amphitheater will provide seating for up to 300 people for keeper talks and animal demonstrations.

8. Asian Café and Restrooms:  A new café, featuring delectable Asian fare, will replace the existing snack bar.  Much needed public restrooms also will be added to this section of the zoo.

9. Wise Use of Resources:  Asian Tropics is being designed following the US Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED®) system.  It may become the first large animal exhibit facility to be certified by the LEED® program.  Asian Tropics will use recycled water, efficient HVAC systems, natural day lighting and ventilation “green” construction practices.  The zoo also is testing a “gasification” system that will convert the zoo’s trash into the energy needed to operate Asian Tropics.