Mariposario de Benalmádena

Address: C. Muerdago, s/n, 29639 Benalmádena, Málaga

Just 20 minutes from Málaga, the Mariposario de Benalmádena is not your average butterfly exhibit. Set inside a striking Thai-style temple, this tropical wonderland is home to over 1,500 butterflies fluttering freely among waterfalls, lush jungle plants, and blooming orchids. It’s immersive, romantic, and absolutely kid-friendly—a dreamy little escape from the beach crowds.

You can watch butterflies hatch before your eyes, spot species from Asia to South America, and learn all about their short, fascinating lives. The temperature and humidity are kept just right to mimic a real rainforest, so it feels like you’ve stepped into another world. It’s peaceful, photogenic, and sneakily educational—a hidden gem that blends beauty with biology in the most magical way.

For more info, check out the official website.


This zoo is featured in our Best Zoos, Aquariums, and Animal Experiences in Marbella and around Andalucía — check out the guide for more great tips!


Check out more great things to do with kids in our Guide to the Best Things to Do with Kids in Marbella and Around Andalucía.


There’s much more to discover in Benalmádena! Check out our Guide to Benalmádena for a closer look at the city’s culture, heritage, and unmissable experiences.