Surabaya Zoo
Established in 1918, Surabaya Zoo offers a vast collection of animals, including lions, bears, and Komodo dragons, at an incredibly affordable price.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Surabaya Zoo
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Established in 1918, Surabaya Zoo offers a vast collection of animals, including lions, bears, and Komodo dragons, at an incredibly affordable price.
"For 15k rp, it was worth it and the best part was the orangutan and the deers."
🎯 Affordable Entry
Basic admission is incredibly cheap at ~15,000 IDR, making it a great value!
🚶♀️ Wear Comfy Shoes
The zoo is vast; you'll be doing a lot of walking. Comfortable footwear is a must!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Orangutan & Deer Encounters
Various enclosures
Witness the gentle orangutans and graceful deers, often cited as highlights for their engaging presence.
Surabaya Night Zoo
Zoo grounds
Experience the zoo after dark for a magical, cooler atmosphere and a different perspective on the animals.
Giz Park Interactive Zone
Giz Park, Surabaya Zoo
Immerse yourself in a unique, glowing interactive zoo experience with engaging displays.
Komodo Dragons
Reptile enclosure
Marvel at the prehistoric presence of Indonesia's iconic Komodo dragons.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Heat
Budget-Friendly Fun
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Affordable Entry
Basic admission is incredibly cheap at ~15,000 IDR, making it a great value! +2
🚶♀️ Wear Comfy Shoes
The zoo is vast; you'll be doing a lot of walking. Comfortable footwear is a must!
🌃 Experience the Night Zoo
Check for 'Surabaya Night Zoo' events for a magical evening visit. +2
📱 Download a Map
The zoo is huge and easy to get lost in. A map is highly recommended!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Affordable Entry
Basic admission is incredibly cheap at ~15,000 IDR, making it a great value! +2
🚶♀️ Wear Comfy Shoes
The zoo is vast; you'll be doing a lot of walking. Comfortable footwear is a must!
🌃 Experience the Night Zoo
Check for 'Surabaya Night Zoo' events for a magical evening visit. +2
📱 Download a Map
The zoo is huge and easy to get lost in. A map is highly recommended!
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring water, especially during the day, as it can get hot.
💰 Extra for Aquarium
The aquarium has a separate entrance fee, around 30,000 IDR.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Surabaya Zoo is widely praised for its incredible affordability and the variety of animals it houses, making it a great value for money. While some visitors note concerns about enclosure conditions, many find it a worthwhile and engaging experience, especially the unique Night Zoo and interactive zones.
"Went around 11 am on a Sunday. Bought the basic admission for 15k. Zoo isn't too large but it packs quite a lot to see in the small space it has. Some of the enclosures seem claustrophobic for me let alone the animals. But all in all most of the enclosures are fairly spacious. For the cost it is well worth it. Easily a good 2 to 3 hours of entertainment. Only off thing is that you still have to pay 2k to use the toilet."
Matt G
"The iron bars are cold to the touch,
like forgotten spoons in an empty kitchen.
The anoa pace, not in hunger, but in habit,
their skins fading into concrete shadows.
A sun bear claws at nothing,
its cage too small to remember trees.
The elephants sway, their feet cracked,
counting steps they’ll never take again.
The monkeys don’t scream anymore.
They’ve learned silence is easier.
Even the birds have stopped singing
what use are wings without sky?
A child presses against the glass,
her breath fogging the loneliness.
Somewhere, a zookeeper sighs,
wiping sweat from his brow,
wondering if guilt has a feeding schedule.
This is a museum of apologies
no one has made."
My Body My Choice
"It's damm huge. I got lost. I check maps. I get lost again. It's hugeeeeeeee.... Food are decent and tickets arents too pricy. Will strongly recommend can pay a visit. Takes about half a day to finish I guesss"
samuel eel
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Surabaya Zoo (KBS) is located at Jl. Setail No. 1, Darmo, Wonokromo. It's easily accessible by public transport or ride-sharing services. Many hotels are conveniently located nearby, some just a 5-minute drive away.
Parking is generally available, but it can get busy, especially on weekends. Arriving early can help secure a spot.
Yes, electric bike rentals are available within the zoo, which can be a great way to cover the large grounds.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The basic admission fee is very affordable, typically around 15,000 IDR for locals with an ID card, and slightly more for foreigners. 
Yes, there are different pricing tiers. Locals with an Indonesian ID card usually pay a lower fee compared to foreign visitors.
Tickets can be purchased on the spot at the entrance. It's generally not too crowded, especially on weekdays.
The zoo is typically open daily, but specific hours can vary. It's best to check their official social media or website for the most up-to-date information. The 'Surabaya Night Zoo' operates during specific evening hours. +1
Yes, the aquarium is a separate attraction within the zoo and requires an additional ticket, usually around 30,000 IDR.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Surabaya Zoo houses a diverse collection of animals, including lions, bears, Komodo dragons, orangutans, deers, monkeys, and various bird species.
Absolutely! It's a great family destination with a wide variety of animals to learn about. The affordable entry makes it a budget-friendly choice for a family outing.
Yes, the zoo features 'Giz Park,' a glowing interactive zoo experience, and a 'Wisata Hutan Menyala' (Glowing Forest Tour) on the second floor of the observation tower.
The zoo offers various facilities, and it's generally well-maintained. However, some visitors note that toilet usage may incur a small fee.
It can take a good half-day to a full day to explore the entire zoo, especially if you want to see all the animals and attractions.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are food stalls and eateries within the zoo offering decent food options.
You can find a variety of local Indonesian dishes and snacks. The food is generally considered decent for a zoo setting.
📸 📸 Photography
The diverse animal enclosures, the 'Giz Park' interactive zone, and the 'Wisata Hutan Menyala' offer unique photo opportunities. Capture the Komodo dragons, orangutans, and the vibrant night zoo atmosphere.
Photography is generally allowed throughout the zoo, allowing you to capture memories of the animals and your visit.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Plan for a half-day to a full-day visit to allow ample time for exploration. Consider renting an electric bike to help little legs cover the vast grounds. The 'Giz Park' interactive zone and the 'Wisata Hutan Menyala' offer engaging experiences that kids will love.
+2💰 Budget Travelers
+1Pack your own snacks and water to save on costs, although food options are available inside. Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid any potential weekend crowds and make the most of the affordable experience.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+2Be prepared for varying lighting conditions, especially if you visit during the Night Zoo. The Komodo dragons, orangutans, and the general zoo landscape provide ample subjects for capturing memorable shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Surabaya Night Zoo Experience
Tickets for the night zoo are often available on the spot and don't typically sell out, making it a spontaneous option. The experience is designed to be engaging and memorable, providing a different perspective on the animals and their behaviors after dark. It's a highly recommended activity for those looking for something beyond a standard daytime zoo visit.
While the exact offerings can vary, the night zoo often includes special lighting and themed elements to enhance the immersive experience. It's a great date idea or a fun family activity for an evening out in Surabaya.
Affordability and Value
+2Despite the low price, visitors report a good range of animals and a decent experience that can fill several hours. The value proposition is clear: a significant amount of entertainment and educational opportunity for a minimal financial outlay. This affordability is a major draw, as highlighted by numerous social media posts and reviews.
For travelers on a tight budget, Surabaya Zoo is a must-visit. It offers a chance to see diverse wildlife without compromising on other travel expenses, making it a smart choice for an enriching and cost-effective day out.
Conservation Concerns and Enclosure Conditions
These observations have led to discussions about the zoo's commitment to animal welfare and conservation. Some content creators have even called for improved standards, highlighting the need for more spacious and naturalistic habitats.
Despite these concerns, many visitors still find the zoo to be a worthwhile experience, particularly given its historical significance and low entry fee. The zoo does house a variety of species, and efforts are ongoing to maintain and improve the facilities. It's a complex issue that balances accessibility and education with the ethical considerations of animal welfare.
+1
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit