San Diego Zoo

Discover why San Diego Zoo is a must-visit destination for animal lovers and adventure seekers alike. With over 12,000 animals, lush landscapes, and world-class exhibits, this iconic zoo offers an unforgettable experience for all ages.

Why Visit San Diego Zoo?

More than simply spending the day in fun, a trip to the San Diego Zoo becomes an exploration of the colours and rhythms of the natural world. A part of lush green Balboa Park, the zoo exhibits are artfully set up, making it an exciting exploratory outing. 

One second, you are surveying a rhinoceros grazing quietly in an open plain, and the next, you are standing beneath the canopy of a tropical forest watching monkeys swing through the trees. The sounds of parrots, the distant lions snorting, and a red panda in the bamboo can be heard. 

This zoo experience invokes both observation and connection to all that is wild. In its vividness and rich detailing, the zoo engages its visitors, merging the elements of the environment and observer, so that one does not look upon the exhibited areas in comparison to more traditional museums or galleries; and what is meant to be an exhibition truly is not since the zoo acts not only to showcase animals in their habitats but also and most importantly, to tell the narratives of these animals, their habitats, and conservation on the global scale. The San Diego Zoo is unique, its respect to conservation and education truly are inherent to everything they do.

What to Expect at San Diego Zoo

1. World-Class Exhibits:

• Panda Trek: Home to giant pandas, one of the zoo’s most beloved attractions.
• Africa Rocks: Explore habitats showcasing African wildlife like penguins, leopards, and baboons.
• Elephant Odyssey: Get up close with elephants, lions, and other species that once roamed California.
• Australian Outback: Meet koalas and kangaroos in this immersive exhibit.

1. Guided Tours and Experiences:

• Kangaroo Bus: Hop on the free shuttle to explore the zoo’s vast grounds.
• Behind-the-Scenes Tours: Get exclusive access to animal care areas and learn from experts.
• Animal Encounters: Interactive experiences where you can meet and learn about your favorite animals.

1. Family-Friendly Activities:

• Play areas for kids, interactive exhibits, and daily animal shows.
• The 4D Theater offers immersive films that bring nature to life.

1. Dining and Shopping:

• Enjoy a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to full-service restaurants.
• Shop for unique souvenirs, plush toys, and eco-friendly products at the gift shops.

Tips for the Best Experience

1. To verify exhibit locations, show times and lavatory stops, pick up a paper map at the entrance.
2. Start with the Guided Bus Tour, which is ideal for first-time visitors.
3. Take a break from walking and enjoy breathtaking views by riding the Skyfari Aerial Tram.
4. To make sure you don't miss any of the daily-changing wildlife presentations, keeper talks, or live feedings, check the daily schedule.
5. Choose a region to thoroughly explore from the zoo's divisions into Africa, Asia, Australia, and other areas.

How to Get to San Diego Zoo

1. By Train: Go to Santa Fe Depot on the Amtrak Pacific Surfliner. From there, you have the following options: Walk to Kettner Blvd., take Rapid 215 to Park Blvd. & Zoo Place (15 minutes), and then walk for 4 minutes to the zoo.
2. By bus: Rapid 215 and Route 7 both stop close to the San Diego Zoo, making it easy to get there from downtown San Diego.
3. By car:

From I-5 (either north or south), take the Pershing Drive exit and follow the signs to the zoo drive.From Highway 163, take a left at the light on Park Boulevard, then head north to Zoo Place, where you'll turn left.

What Every Traveler Should Know

1. Entrance fees: $95
2. Opening hours: 9am to 5pm
3. Average duration to explore: 4-6 hours