Chilean National Zoo
Discover diverse wildlife and stunning Santiago views at the free Chilean National Zoo, perched atop San Cristóbal Hill.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
See animals at their most active!
Chilean National Zoo
Best Time
See animals at their most active!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover diverse wildlife and stunning Santiago views at the free Chilean National Zoo, perched atop San Cristóbal Hill.
"Free, fun activities with lots of animals (including native and extinct) to see and city views!!"
🎟️ Reserve Tickets Online
Free entry, but booking online is essential! Don't miss out on your visit.
⏰ Catch the Feeding Frenzy
Check the schedule for feeding times – it's a highlight for amazing animal encounters!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Chilean Native Species
Various enclosures
Discover unique animals native to Chile, like the pudú deer and Andean condor. A true taste of local wildlife!
Flamingo Flock
Flamingo enclosure
Marvel at the vibrant Chilean flamingos, often a highlight for visitors. Their unique behaviors are captivating.
+1
Panoramic City Views
Upper areas of the zoo
Enjoy breathtaking views of Santiago from the zoo's elevated location on San Cristóbal Hill.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Admission & Online Tickets
Best Viewing Times & Animal Activity
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Reserve Tickets Online
Free entry, but booking online is essential! Don't miss out on your visit.
⏰ Catch the Feeding Frenzy
Check the schedule for feeding times – it's a highlight for amazing animal encounters!
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the zoo and enjoy the views.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera for stunning cityscapes and close-ups of the animals.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Reserve Tickets Online
Free entry, but booking online is essential! Don't miss out on your visit.
⏰ Catch the Feeding Frenzy
Check the schedule for feeding times – it's a highlight for amazing animal encounters!
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the zoo and enjoy the views.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera for stunning cityscapes and close-ups of the animals.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Chilean National Zoo for its free admission and the opportunity to see a diverse range of animals, including native Chilean species. The feeding demonstrations are a major highlight, offering engaging encounters. The stunning city views from San Cristóbal Hill add to the overall positive experience. Some visitors noted that certain animals, like tigers, can be elusive.
"Was pleasantly surprised that the zoo was free🙂. You obtain a ticket at the entrance of the zoo to enter. It’s a beautiful with a variety of animals. Got to see feeding of
some of the animals, which was super cool.
Great place for families with children."
tash gov
"Free, fun activities with lots of animals (including native and extinct) to see and city views!!
Highly recommend! It took us about two hours to see everything. And luckily it was the time to feed many of the animals and we had some of the best zoo encounters in our lives! The zoo staff for instance, laid pieces of meat all over for Catacal to sniff and eat. It was super fun to see Catacal zooming around sniffing for food once it’s released from cage.
And there were the screaming Gibons, very cute… one of the giraffe was obsessed with the fence and kept munching on it … we saw lettuce eating Emus, and being petted like little dogs.
We couldn’t see the red panda (no longer there), and the tiger and Puma hid themselves the whole time."
Delilah Liu
"There are a lot of animals and birds you can see here. The entrance is free, and reserve your tickets online before visit
But I think animals are not happy!!!!"
Rojen Bajeryan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Chilean National Zoo is located on San Cristóbal Hill in Santiago. Many visitors take the funicular up the hill, which is conveniently located near the zoo entrance. Public transport options to the base of the hill are also available.
Information on specific parking availability can vary. It's often recommended to check the zoo's official website or local transport advisories closer to your visit. The funicular is a popular and scenic alternative.
Yes, ride-sharing services can drop you off at the base of San Cristóbal Hill, from where you can access the funicular or walk up to the zoo.
While the zoo is on a hill, efforts are made to ensure accessibility. The funicular can assist with elevation changes. Inquire directly with the zoo for specific accessibility details.
From downtown Santiago, you can take public transport or a taxi to the base of San Cristóbal Hill and then utilize the funicular for a scenic ascent to the zoo.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Chilean National Zoo offers free admission! However, it is mandatory to reserve your tickets online in advance, even for free entry.
Yes, absolutely. Online reservation of tickets is required for all visitors, regardless of admission being free. This helps manage visitor flow.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Chilean National Zoo website for the most up-to-date information on operating hours before your visit.
No, tickets must be reserved online in advance. You obtain your ticket at the entrance after booking online.
Admission is generally free, but online reservation is always required. Keep an eye on their official channels for any special announcements or events.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the native Chilean species like the pudú deer and Andean condor. The vibrant Chilean flamingos are also a major draw.
Yes, feeding times are a highlight! Visitors highly recommend attending these to see animals at their most active and engaged. Check the schedule upon arrival.
Most visitors find that two hours is sufficient to see everything. However, you can easily spend longer if you wish to linger and enjoy the views.
The zoo offers free toilets and is conveniently located near the funicular. Food and drink options may be available, but it's always good to check beforehand.
During certain periods, parts of the zoo may be undergoing reconstruction. This has sometimes led to free entry as a gesture. It's advisable to check for any ongoing works before your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
The panoramic views of Santiago from the upper parts of the zoo offer fantastic photo opportunities.
Yes, photography is generally allowed throughout the zoo for personal use. Be mindful of any specific signage regarding flash photography or restricted areas.
A versatile zoom lens is recommended to capture both wide cityscapes and animal details. A smartphone with a good camera is also sufficient for most visitors.
Some animals, like tigers and pumas, are known to be elusive and may hide. Red pandas are no longer at the zoo. Patience and good timing are key!
Drone usage is typically prohibited in and around zoos and national parks due to wildlife disturbance and safety regulations. Always check specific park rules.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look out for animals native to Chile, which can be a great educational opportunity for children to learn about local wildlife.
The zoo is generally considered clean, and many visitors report that the animals appear happy and well-cared for. 💰 Budget Travelers
To keep costs even lower, consider packing your own snacks and drinks. While there might be food options available, bringing your own is a surefire way to save money.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Conservation Efforts at the Zoo
While specific details on current projects might require direct inquiry, zoos like this often participate in breeding programs for endangered animals and contribute to research that aids wildlife protection. Visitors can feel good knowing their visit supports these important initiatives. Many social media posts highlight the zoo's commitment to animal welfare. For instance, the care and handling of Chilean flamingos, including annual roundups for health checks, demonstrate a dedication to the well-being of their residents.
+1 This focus on animal health and happiness is often reflected in the animals' behavior and the overall visitor experience. Beyond direct conservation, the zoo serves as an educational platform. By showcasing a diverse range of species, it raises awareness about biodiversity and the challenges facing wildlife. This educational aspect is crucial for fostering a greater appreciation and understanding of the natural world among visitors of all ages.
Navigating San Cristóbal Hill
Getting to the zoo often involves ascending this prominent landmark. The most popular and scenic way to reach the zoo is by using the funicular, which provides a comfortable and picturesque journey up the hill. Many visitors find the funicular to be a convenient and enjoyable part of their zoo experience. It's often mentioned as being close to the zoo entrance, making the transition from transport to exploration seamless.
For those who prefer to explore on foot or are looking for alternative access, there are walking paths up San Cristóbal Hill. However, be prepared for a more strenuous climb. Regardless of your chosen method of ascent, the reward is a visit to a fascinating zoo coupled with breathtaking vistas of the sprawling city below.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit