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11 Must-Visit Zoos in Thailand for Kids and Adults Alike
The last time I planned a trip to a zoo, I spent more time researching than I did actually visiting. It’s tough to know if a place will live up to the hype—or if it’s just another tourist trap.
Luckily, Thailand has some absolute gems when it comes to zoos, and they’re perfect for families, animal lovers, or anyone who needs a break from the usual sightseeing.
If you’re into watching elephants play or seeing your kids’ faces light up at a tiger feeding, there’s something magical about these spots.
Luckily, after a bit of legwork (and one too many mixed reviews), I’ve put together this list of the best zoos to check out in Thailand. Let’s jump right in!
Songkhla Zoo
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Address: 189 Village No. 5, Songkhla-Nathawi Road
Opening hours: Daily 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM
Contact number: +6674598555
Fee:
- Foreigner: Adult (350 THB), Child (120 THB)
- Parking: Motorcycle (10 THB), Car (50 THB)
Songkhla Zoo is an exciting and unique experience where you can drive your own car through the exhibits. The tiger feeding show is a must-see—it’s fascinating to watch the tigers work for their meal.
Kids will love feeding the elephants and hippos, which makes for a fun family outing. The penguin and seal shows are also a hit, though they’re conducted in Thai, so brush up on “neng, song, sam!”
Some areas like the hornbill enclosure are especially well-maintained and beautiful to explore. Rainy days might limit animal visibility, but the zoo often offers discounts during such times.
Also, driving through the zoo gives you the flexibility to stop and enjoy attractions at your own pace.
Pro tip: If you’re not driving, rent the EV golf truck for a smooth ride—it’s perfect for exploring every corner without getting tired.
Rayong Aquarium
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Address: Phe, Mueang Rayong District
Opening hours:
- Monday and Tuesday – Closed
- Wednesday – Friday 10 AM to 4 PM
- Saturday and Sunday 10 AM to 5 PM
Contact number: +6638653741
Fee: 30 THB
Rayong Aquarium is a budget-friendly way to explore marine life with your family. For just 30 THB, you can see sharks, clownfish, horseshoe crabs, and even stonefish.
One of the highlights is the perspex tunnel, where you can walk through and below a massive saltwater tank showcasing large sea fish—it’s a hit with both kids and adults alike. Further along, you’ll find sea turtles that can be viewed underwater or from above in the outdoor section.
It’s small and a bit old, but the exhibits are well-kept, and the fish are in good condition. Perfect for a quick 45-minute stop, especially if you’re looking to entertain kids before heading back to Bangkok.
Parking is plentiful, and the aquarium’s snack shop offers cute souvenirs for the little ones. Keep in mind, there’s no platform for kids to look into tanks, so you might need to lift them for a better view.
Pro tip: Arriving around 10 AM, especially on weekends, is a smart move. Even with a crowd forming, the entry process is usually quick and efficient.
Sam Phran Elephant Ground and Zoo
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Address: 117 Village No. 6 Phet Kasem Rd, Tha Kham
Opening hours: Daily 8 AM to 5 PM
Contact number: +6634321471
Fee: Foreigners: Adult (600 THB), Children (350 THB)
Website
Sam Phran is a fun destination with activities for animal lovers of all ages. The elephant and crocodile shows are the main highlights, and the magic show adds a bit of extra charm.
You can feed the animals, ride elephants, and even take photos with them or the crocodiles for a small fee. The venue is a bit dated, but it still offers plenty of excitement for kids and adults alike.
It’s close enough to Bangkok for a day trip, making it a convenient option for families. Don’t forget to bring cash, as card payments aren’t accepted for admission or other activities.
Plus, there are no ATM machines nearby.
Pro tip: Arrive after 12 PM to avoid long waits for the shows—this also lets you time your visit around the cooler part of the day.
Khao Kheow Open Zoo
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Address: Village No. 7 235 Bang Phra
Opening hours: Daily 8 AM to 5 PM
Contact number: +6638318444
Fee: Adult (350 THB), Children 3 to 12 years old (120 THB)
Website
Khao Kheow Open Zoo is a massive, open-concept zoo where you can get up close to the animals. Renting a golf cart is the way to go, as the one-way roads and large spaces make walking less practical.
Highlights include hippos, giraffes, and a variety of bird species. There are plenty of signs in Thai and English, so you can learn more about the animals.
The zoo is well-maintained, with lots of shaded areas and shops for snacks and water.
Pro tip: Be mindful of littering—monkeys may rummage through trash and harm themselves or other animals. Use the bins placed around the zoo.
Nakhon Ratchasima Zoo (Korat Zoo)
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Address: Village No. 1 111 Chai Mongkhon
Opening hours: Daily 8 AM to 5 PM
Contact number: +66833720404
Fee:
- Foreigner: Adult (50 THB), Child (20 THB)
- Thai locals: Adult (40 THB), Child (20 THB)
Korat Zoo is massive, so give yourself at least a few hours to explore. You can rent bikes or golf carts, which make it easier to navigate the large area.
The enclosures are clean, and the animals appear well-cared for. Highlights include the sea lion show, penguin feeding, and the bird walkway, where you might snap some amazing photos of colorful birds flying by.
There’s also a water park for cooling off, but check in advance as some rides might be closed.
Pro tip: Start your visit early to avoid the heat and catch animals before they retreat to the shade—mornings are best for photos and activity.
The Million Years Stone Park & Pattaya Crocodile Farm
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Address: 22, Nong Pla Lai, Bang Lamung District
Opening hours: Daily 8 AM to 5 PM
Contact number: +6638249347
Fee:
- Foreigner:
- Adult (500 THB),
- Children under 90 cm tall (Free),
- Children 90–120 cm (250 THB)
This spot combines nature and animals for a fun day out. The crocodile show is a thrilling highlight, where trainers perform daring stunts.
You can also feed crocodiles and giraffes, take photos with tigers, and explore the beautifully landscaped stone park. The area isn’t too crowded on weekdays, so it’s a relaxing visit.
Don’t miss the unique souvenirs at the shop—they’re worth checking out. Also, keep in mind that taxis can be expensive here, so plan transportation ahead of time.
Pro tip: There are small restrooms available before the entrance, but the ones inside are larger, accommodating more people. They’re clean and well-maintained, making it convenient for visitors.
Safari Park Kanchanaburi
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Address: 99 Lat Ya-Bo Ploi Road Nong Kum
Opening hours: Daily 9 AM to 5 PM
Contact number:+6634678225
Fee:
- Foreigners:
- Adult (550 THB),
- Child (350 THB
Safari Park Kanchanaburi offers a chance to get up close to animals like giraffes, zebras, and lions. You can feed giraffes straight from your vehicle or take part in other animal interactions, like feeding tiger cubs or rabbits.
The safari bus ride through different zones is a highlight, with herbivores and carnivores roaming freely. It’s a big park, so plan for a full day if you want to see everything.
The giraffe encounter is especially popular, so book your slot in advance.
Pro tip: Bring plenty of cash for tickets, animal food, and souvenirs—they don’t accept cards, and you’ll want to feed as many animals as possible!
Chiang Mai Night Safari
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Address: 33, Nong Kwai, Hang Dong District
Opening hours: Daily 11 AM to 10 PM
Contact number: +6653999000
Fee:
- Safari Tram (Animal) – Watching tram + Animal walking tour
- Foreigner: Adult (1,200 THB), Children (600 THB)
- Thai locals: Adult (300 THB), Children (150 THB)
- Jaguar Trail – Walk to see animals
- Foreigner: Adult (400 THB), Children (200 THB)
- Thai locals: Adult (50 THB), Children (25 THB)
The Chiang Mai Night Safari is a fantastic nighttime adventure that’s perfect for families and animal lovers. The tram ride is the highlight, getting you up close to zebras, giraffes, and other animals, making for unforgettable moments.
Here, the lake view and exhibits create a magical atmosphere, especially under the night lights. Shows like the predator show and light display add to the fun, with a mix of education and entertainment.
The park isn’t crowded, so you can enjoy a relaxing visit at your own pace. Don’t miss feeding the animals—grab a food basket before hopping on the tram for an even more interactive experience.
Plus, the setup is tourist-friendly, with schedules and multilingual staff making it easy to navigate.
Pro tip: Plan to stay for the light show—it’s a great way to end your visit with a mix of water effects, music, and a captivating vibe.
SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World
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Address: Floor B1-B2 Siam Paragon 991 Rama I Rd
Contact Numbers:+6628422000
Fee: Starts at 801 THB depending on the variation
Website
SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World is an incredible aquarium experience right in the heart of the city. The variety of marine life here is amazing and sure to wow kids and adults alike.
They have everything from sharks to penguins and the underwater tunnel is a must-see, making you feel like you’re surrounded by ocean creatures. Interactive exhibits like the touch pools are also a fun addition and super engaging.
It’s a bit pricey, but the quality and immersive design make it worth it. Located in Siam Paragon, it’s a convenient escape from the heat or hustle of Bangkok.
Plan to spend a couple of hours here to take it all in at your own pace.
Pro tip: Pre-book tickets online to save money, and look for combo deals that include entry to nearby attractions like Madame Tussauds.
Safari World Bangkok
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Address: 99 Panya Indra Rd, Sam Wa Tawan Tok
Opening hours:
- Monday – Closed
- Tuesday to Friday – 9 AM to 4:30 PM
- Saturday and Sunday – 9 AM to 5 PM
Contact number: +6625181000
Fee: Starts around 950 THB depending on the ticket bundle
Website
Safari World Bangkok combines the thrill of a safari with the fun of animal shows. The Safari Park lets you drive through open spaces where lions, zebras, and giraffes roam freely.
On the other hand, the Marine Park has entertaining shows featuring dolphins, seals, and even birds, perfect for families. Feeding giraffes and holding owls or baby tigers are unforgettable experiences.
The park is well-organized with maps and dining options, though food prices can be on the higher side. Booking tickets in advance can save you money and make your visit smoother.
Pro tip: Bring sunscreen and a portable fan—it gets hot, and there’s plenty of walking between shows and attractions.
Chiang Mai Zoo
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Address: 100 Huay Kaew Rd, Tambon Su Thep
Opening hours: Daily 8 AM to 5 PM
Contact number: +6653221179
Fee: Adult (350 THB), Children 3 to 12 years old (120 THB)
Website
Chiang Mai Zoo offers a laid-back and family-friendly outing. You can drive through the premises in your own car, rent a golf cart, or take the tram, making it super convenient.
The exhibits include animals like red pandas, colorful birds, and more, set against a backdrop of lush greenery. While not the most modern, the enclosures are clean and the animals well cared for.
Kids will love feeding the giraffes and elephants, and the aquarium and “Snow Park” add extra fun.
Pro tip: Consider taking the hop-on bus for convenience, especially if you’re on a budget, as the golf carts tend to be quite expensive.
