It is located in a natural reserve area called El Zapotal, a valuable ecological reserve of 109 hectares of semi-humid jungle, situated 5 km from the city center of Tuxtla Gutiérrez. It is named in honor of its director from 1942 to 1996.

The zoo exhibits, studies, protects, and preserves regional fauna species in an environment similar to their natural habitat. It houses over 220 animal species in natural enclosures, and 154 species inhabit freely throughout the area resembling their original habitat.

It is considered one of the best in the world of its kind due to its beautiful setting, which includes a jungle crossed by streams. The tour lasts approximately two and a half hours. There are also nighttime visits that provide a completely different experience.

The zoo also features an audiovisual classroom, a bookstore, an ecological orientation area, cafeterias, and dining areas for picnics.

Inside the zoo, there is the Crocodile Museum, unique in its kind worldwide, which explains the evolution and importance of these ancient animals, as well as the Zoo Museum, which takes you into the different ecosystems of Chiapas.