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Colorado Gators Reptile Park: An Oasis of Scales and Fins

Discover a surprising world of alligators and rescued reptiles in the heart of Colorado's San Luis Valley; an educational and fun experience for all.

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Unexpectedly nestled in the San Luis Valley of Colorado, the Colorado Gators Reptile Park offers a unique encounter with alligators, reptiles, and other rescued animals. Originally a tilapia farm utilizing geothermal waters, it evolved into a sanctuary for unwanted exotic pets, providing education and entertainment for visitors of all ages.

A brief summary to Colorado Gators Reptile Park

  • Monday 9 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Check the Colorado Gators website for discount coupons and special events with free admission.
  • Dress in layers, as the weather in Colorado can change quickly, and you'll be walking both indoors and outdoors.
  • Participate in the reptile handling class for a hands-on experience with various reptiles.
  • Buy gator chow to feed the alligators for a memorable experience.
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Getting There

  • Car

    From Alamosa, head north on CO-17 for approximately 17 miles. Look for the alligator signs pointing you in the right direction. Turn onto Lane 9 N and continue for about 0.5 miles. The park will be on your right. Parking is available on-site and is free.

  • Public Transportation

    Public transportation options to the park are limited. First, reach Alamosa, which is about 30 miles from Great Sand Dunes National Park. From the visitor center, take a taxi or rideshare to Alamosa. In Alamosa, check for local shuttle services or taxis that can take you to Colorado Gators Reptile Park. Confirm transportation availability in advance, as schedules may vary. A taxi or rideshare from Alamosa to the park will cost approximately $40-$60.

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Discover more about Colorado Gators Reptile Park

Colorado Gators Reptile Park is a surprising and captivating destination in Mosca, Colorado, blending a working fish farm with a reptile rescue facility. Founded in 1977 as a tilapia farm taking advantage of the region's geothermal resources, the farm purchased alligators in 1987 to help with fish waste. When locals became intrigued by the growing gators, the farm opened to the public in 1990. Today, the park is home to over 250 alligators, including albino alligators and Morris, a movie star gator. It also serves as a sanctuary for unwanted exotic pets, such as pythons, tortoises, iguanas, and various bird species. Visitors can observe these animals up close, learning about their behaviors and the challenges of keeping them as pets. The park emphasizes education, offering reptile handling classes and school programs. Visitors can hold a small alligator, feed the gators, tortoises, and fish, and even try catch-and-release fishing. For the adventurous, alligator wrestling classes are available. The park utilizes solar and geothermal resources and recycles fish waste to fertilize plants, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability.

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