World’s Leading Zoos and Aquariums

The World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) is the global alliance of regional associations, national federations, zoos and aquariums, dedicated to the care and conservation of animals and their habitats around the world.

400 members
around the world

WAZA promotes cooperation between leading zoos, aquariums, national and regional associations, as well as with leading wildlife experts, academies, and universities. WAZA provides support for species-conservation management and husbandry of animals in human care, while encouraging the highest standards in member institutions.

Become a member

WAZA accepts membership applications in four categories: associations, institutions, affiliates and corporations. WAZA members must be committed to the principles of the global zoo and aquarium community.

The unifying organisation for the world's leading zoos and aquariums

WAZA’s vision is to be a globally recognised and trusted leader advancing conservation and animal welfare.

WAZA Welcomes New Member – Zoológico Guadalajara

WAZA Welcomes New Member – Zoológico Guadalajara Posted: 27 July 2026 The World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) welcomes Zoológico Guadalajara, based in Mexico, as a new Institution Member. Established in 1988, Zoológico Guadalajara has become a major zoological institution in Latin America,

AAWHC Meets the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Animal Welfare Goal, a Global Benchmark for Animal Welfare Evaluation Processes

AAWHC Meets the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Animal Welfare Goal, a Global Benchmark for Animal Welfare Evaluation Processes Posted: 13 July 2026 The African Association for Wildlife in Human Care (AAWHC) has successfully completed the WAZA confirmation process,

“Reaching the summit is an achievement. Reaching the peak requires intention, strategy and the courage to keep climbing.”

“Reaching the summit is an achievement. Reaching the peak requires intention, strategy and the courage to keep climbing.” Dr. Ken Chandler, PCC, LCOP, ICMA-CM Chief Potential Officer, Quest Strategic Solutions, LLC Using the metaphor of climbing Mount Career, I invited delegates

WAZA Welcomes New Member – Canopy Strategic Partners

WAZA Welcomes New Member – Canopy Strategic Partners Posted: 23 June 2026 The World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) is pleased to welcome Canopy Strategic Partners, based in the United States, as a new Corporate Member. Canopy Strategic Partners

Zoos and aquariums are the third largest funder of conservation globally

WAZA and its members are committed to inspire and engage the more than 700 million people who visit zoos and aquariums every year – literally one-tenth of the world’s population – to take action for the conservation of species and nature.

Dedicated to change

WAZA and its members are committed to important goals regarding the environment and sustainability, and are engaged in issues of conservation and battling the illegal trade in wildlife like never before. Read the WAZA News Magazine and other publications to find out more.