Khao Kheow Open Zoo Pattaya

More about Khao Kheow Open Zoo Pattaya

Located just outside of Pattaya, Khao Kheow Open Air Zoo offers a fantastic mix of fun, learning and wildlife viewing from around the world. From families with children, couples looking for a relaxing trip, or solo travellers looking to explore something unique, this zoo has something for everyone. 

Spanning over 2,000 hectares, the zoo is not just another zoo, but rather an animal sanctuary, a recreational haven for visitors, and a centre for animal conservation.

About Khao Kheow Open Zoo

Established over 60 years ago, Khao Kheow Open Zoo holds a special place in the hearts of the Thai people. Over the years, the zoo has evolved into a centre for wildlife conservation and education, with a mission to inspire visitors about the importance of protecting nature. 

What makes this zoo stand out is its size, giving the animals room to roam while providing an enriching experience for visitors. It is the perfect place to learn about animals and their habitats.

From interactive exhibits to beautiful natural surroundings, the zoo offers something for everyone. You can spend a whole day here, learning about wildlife, relaxing in the serene surroundings, and even feeding the giraffes!

Khao Kheow Open Zoo Opening Hours

Khao Kheow Open Zoo is open daily from 8am to 5pm, and to get the most out of your visit, it's a good idea to arrive early. The animals are generally more active in the morning, and you can enjoy a quieter experience. 

With popular shows like the Elephant Show starting at 11am, arriving early gives you plenty of time to explore the vast zoo grounds, participate in feeding sessions, and see all the exhibits without feeling rushed. Plan a full day to ensure you don't miss anything!

Meet Moo Deng: The Baby Hippo Star of Khao Kheow Open Zoo

Born in July 2024, Moo Deng is the newest sensation at Khao Kheow Open Zoo. This adorable baby hippo quickly became a favourite with visitors of all ages, both at the zoo and on social media, where her adorable behaviour was often shared by the zoo. She loves to play in the water or enjoy a mud bath

Moo Deng also represents the successful conservation efforts at Khao Kheow Open Zoo, which aims to raise awareness for the preservation of hippos and their natural habitat. Watching Moo Deng grow and develop under the care of zookeepers is a rare opportunity to learn about these fascinating animals up close.

Visitors can catch a glimpse of Moo Deng in the specially designed hippo enclosure, which features a water pool and grassy area where she likes to roam. Be sure to check feeding times, as this is when Moo Deng is most active and eager to interact with her keepers. Don't forget to bring your camera. Moo Deng loves to pose!

What is Special about Khao Kheow Open Zoo?

Khao Kheow Open Zoo covers more than 2,000 hectares within the Khao Kheow-Khao Chompoo Wildlife Sanctuary, with 400 hectares of animal habitat, 200 hectares for public recreation, and 1,400 hectares dedicated to research and breeding of endangered species.

Some of the activities you can do include:

1. Elephant Swimming

Have you ever seen an elephant swim? At Khao Kheow Open Zoo, you can! This rare show allows visitors to see elephants swimming underwater, an experience only available at a few zoos around the world. This is a must-visit for anyone who loves these gentle giants.

2. African Savanna

Walk through a recreated African savanna, where giraffes, zebras, and rhinos roam freely. You can even feed some of the animals, making for a truly immersive experience.

3. Eld’s Deer Park 

Take a tram or drive your car through this park where you’ll be surrounded by herds of friendly deer. Snap a few selfies, feed the deer, and enjoy the open space.

4. Cats Complex

If you’re a fan of big cats, this is the place to be. From tigers to smaller cat species, the zoo’s Cats Complex offers a chance to learn about the behaviour and conservation of these majestic creatures.

5. Lemur Land

For something a bit more playful, visit Lemur Land. Take a raft to this island to get up close with ring-tailed lemurs. You can feed them and watch their cheeky antics, making it a hit with both kids and adults.

6. Walk Through Aviary

This two-acre aviary is a bird lover’s paradise. With over 80 species of birds and a beautifully designed natural environment, it’s easy to spend a peaceful hour or two here.

7. See The Animal Show Time

The zoo offers a variety of entertaining and educational animal shows that run throughout the day, providing visitors with up-close encounters with some of the zoo’s most fascinating animals. 

One of the most popular attractions is the Elephant Show, where these gentle giants demonstrate their intelligence and agility. The show is scheduled twice on weekdays at 11:00 AM and 2:30 PM, and three times on holidays at 11:00 AM, 12:30 PM, and 2:30 PM.

Another crowd favourite is the Penguin Parade, where the zoo’s adorable penguins waddle right past the visitors. The parade runs twice on weekdays at 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM, and three times on holidays at 10:00 AM, 2:00 PM, and 3:30 PM. Make sure to arrive a little early to grab a good spot for viewing!

For those interested in birds, the Flying Parade is a spectacular display of exotic birds soaring across the open space. The show highlights the beauty and grace of various species, including colourful parrots and other feathered friends. You can catch this impressive show at 10:30 AM and 2:30 PM daily.

8. Convenient Services

Don’t feel like walking? No problem. Hop on a tram or rent a golf cart to explore the zoo at your own pace. It’s a great option if you’re visiting with kids or just want to take it easy.

When is the best time to visit Khao Kheow Open Zoo?

The zoo is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the cooler months, between November and February, when the weather is pleasant. If you visit during the hotter months, just be prepared for some tropical heat and make sure to stay hydrated. Mornings tend to be less crowded, so if you want to avoid the rush, aim to arrive early.

Location and How to get to Khao Kheow Open Zoo

Address: Moo 7, 235 Bang Phra, Si Racha District, Chon Buri 20110, Thailand.

Located about 57 minutes (48 km) from Pattaya, getting to the zoo is relatively straightforward. Here’s a quick guide:

- By Car: If you’re driving, it’ll take you roughly an hour from Pattaya. Just follow Route 7, and the zoo is well-signposted, so you won’t have trouble finding it. Parking is available on-site.

- By Taxi: If you don’t have a car, booking a taxi or using a ride-hailing app is the easiest option. Expect to pay around 1,500 THB for a round trip, depending on traffic.

- By Motorbike: For the adventurous, riding a motorbike is a fun way to get there, with scenic views along the way. It’s about an hour-long ride, and the roads are pretty smooth.

Tips when Visiting Khao Kheow Open Zoo

- Bring water to make sure you stay hydrated.

- The zoo is huge, and while you can take a tram, you’ll probably still do a fair bit of walking, so wear comfortable shoes.

- Protect your skin by using a hat, sunscreen, or sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun, especially in the open areas of the zoo.

- If you want to feed the animals or any other activities, check the zoo’s feeding schedule at the entrance, so you don’t miss out on the fun.

- The zoo is a sanctuary for wildlife, so make sure to follow the rules, especially around feeding and touching the animals.

Attractions Near Khao Kheow Open Zoo

If you’re looking to explore more of the area after visiting Khao Kheow Open Zoo, there are several nearby attractions that offer unique experiences:

1. The Sanctuary of Truth Ticket in Pattaya

This breathtaking wooden temple is a must-see for anyone interested in Thai culture and craftsmanship. Entirely made of wood, the temple features intricate carvings that blend both Buddhist and Hindu elements, telling stories of spirituality and philosophy. It’s not only a spiritual retreat but also offers stunning views of the Gulf of Thailand.

2. Nong Nooch Tropical Garden

Spread across 600 acres, this expansive garden offers a mix of lush landscapes and cultural performances. Wander through themed gardens like the French Garden or Stonehenge, or enjoy one of the daily Thai cultural performances and elephant shows. It's a perfect spot for both nature lovers and those wanting a deeper dive into Thai traditions.

3. Art in Paradise

This fun, interactive 3D art museum lets you step into the paintings and become part of the artwork. With over 150 installations, it’s a great place to get creative with your photos and enjoy a laugh with family or friends. Each room is filled with optical illusions, making it a perfect stop for those who love quirky, engaging attractions.

4. Frost Magical Ice of Siam

Beat the tropical heat by stepping into this frosty wonderland, where ice sculptures depict iconic figures from Thai mythology and culture. The experience is surreal, especially in a country known for its warm climate. Just be sure to bundle up, as temperatures inside can get quite chilly!

5. Monster Aquarium

A fantastic spot for marine life enthusiasts, Monster Aquarium offers an immersive underwater experience with a large variety of exotic creatures. Explore the 10-metre underwater tunnel, interact with the reptiles, and take photos of the colourful fish and sea creatures. It’s a family-friendly attraction perfect for a fun and educational outing.

Khao Kheow Open Zoo is a perfect day trip from Pattaya, offering a mix of fun, education, and relaxation. Whether you’re feeding giraffes, watching the penguins parade, or just soaking in the natural surroundings, it’s an experience that’s hard to beat.

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