Navajo Nation Zoological and Botanical Park

The Navajo Nation Zoological and Botanical Park is the only tribally owned and operated zoo in the United States, offering a profound connection to the flora and fauna significant to Navajo culture. Located in Window Rock, Arizona, the capital of the Navajo Nation, this distinctive park serves as "a Sanctuary for Nature and the Spirit," dedicated to preserving native plants and animals, especially rare, sensitive, and endangered species. It's a place where tradition meets conservation, providing a free and enriching experience for all visitors.

Visitors can marvel at a diverse collection of animals, almost all native to the Navajo Nation and the desert Southwest, which often come to the park as injured or orphaned rescues unable to survive in the wild. Key highlights include the majestic Golden Eagle Sanctuary, which houses non-releasable eagles and provides a legal source of molted feathers for the Navajo people. Other captivating creatures include the elusive Mexican wolves, powerful black bears, cunning bobcats, graceful cougars, and large elk. The botanical aspects showcase native plants, often landscaped into xeriscapes, reflecting the region's natural beauty and ecological importance.

This special zoo is more than just an animal park; it's an educational and cultural immersion. The animal signs are thoughtfully presented in both English and Navajo, promoting language preservation and deepening understanding of the animals' significance within Navajo traditions. Its mission to educate visitors about the beauty and significance of animals and species on Navajo land, combined with its tranquil setting amidst Window Rock's natural sandstone terrain, makes it a memorable and enriching destination. Be ready to snap and learn! Get the Snappit app to identify any nature species you find here.