Khao Kheow Open Zoo - a couple of giraffe standing next to each other
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Khao Kheow Open Zoo

4.4
·22k reviews·Tambon Bang Phra, Thailand

Experience a safari-like adventure at Khao Kheow Open Zoo, home to diverse animals in spacious, natural habitats. Meet Moo Deng and enjoy interactive ...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temps

CrowdLow
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Khao Kheow Open Zoo - a couple of giraffe standing next to each other

Khao Kheow Open Zoo

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temps

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Experience a safari-like adventure at Khao Kheow Open Zoo, home to diverse animals in spacious, natural habitats. Meet Moo Deng and enjoy interactive feeding sessions!

4.4
(22k reviews)

"The undisputed star of the zoo is Moo Deng, the pygmy hippopotamus, who completely stole the show!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Golf Cart Rental is Key

Rent a golf cart to cover the vast park comfortably. Essential for seeing most of the zoo!

🐒 Beware of Mischievous Monkeys

Keep food and drinks secure; monkeys are known to snatch items. They can be aggressive!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Moo Deng the Pygmy Hippo

Moo Deng the Pygmy Hippo

Meet the internet-famous baby pygmy hippo, Moo Deng! A guaranteed smile-inducer for all ages.

Safari-Style Exploration

Safari-Style Exploration

Experience animals in spacious, natural habitats. It feels like a true safari adventure, not a typical zoo.

Giraffe & Elephant Encounters

Giraffe & Elephant Encounters

Get up close for feeding sessions with giraffes or witness the unique elephant bath show. Interactive and memorable!

Capybara Charm

Capybara Charm

These gentle giants are incredibly charming and a joy to observe. Don't miss their delightful presence.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Heat & Crowds

Visit Khao Kheow Open Zoo early to avoid the midday sun and larger crowds. Renting a golf cart is highly recommended for comfortable exploration of this expansive park. Arrive before opening to maximize your time and see animals at their most active.

Moo Deng & Monkey Smarts

Don't miss Moo Deng, the famous pygmy hippo! Be mindful of the free-roaming monkeys; they are known to snatch food and drinks, so keep valuables secure. Pre-booking tickets can streamline entry, especially during peak times.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Crowd
Low
When
Weekends, early afternoon
Why
See animal shows & feedings
Crowd
Medium
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour light, fewer people
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Anyone know the most practical way to visit Khao Kheow Open Zoo, and specifically Moo Deng, while I'm in Bangkok?

🚗 Golf Cart Rental is Key

Rent a golf cart to cover the vast park comfortably. Essential for seeing most of the zoo! Reddit

🐒 Beware of Mischievous Monkeys

Keep food and drinks secure; monkeys are known to snatch items. They can be aggressive! Reddit

reddit.com

Day trips to Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Chon Buri from Bangkok

reddit.com

Visiting Khao Kheow Open Zoo - Moo Deng

🎟️ Buy Tickets Online

Pre-booking tickets can save time. Check in at a small grey shack before the main entrance. Reddit

💧 Stay Hydrated

Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months. The park is large and can get hot. Reddit

reddit.com

Bangkok to Khao Kheow Zoo with Grab

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Golf Cart Rental is Key

Rent a golf cart to cover the vast park comfortably. Essential for seeing most of the zoo! Reddit

🐒 Beware of Mischievous Monkeys

Keep food and drinks secure; monkeys are known to snatch items. They can be aggressive! Reddit

🎟️ Buy Tickets Online

Pre-booking tickets can save time. Check in at a small grey shack before the main entrance. Reddit

💧 Stay Hydrated

Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months. The park is large and can get hot. Reddit

🦛 Don't Miss Moo Deng!

The star attraction! This baby pygmy hippo is a must-see for an unforgettable experience. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(22k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the spacious, natural habitats and the impressive variety of healthy animals at Khao Kheow Open Zoo. The chance to get up close with creatures like Moo Deng the pygmy hippo and the charming capybaras is a major highlight. While the park is vast and requires significant walking or a golf cart rental, the overall experience is highly praised for its immersive safari-like feel and friendly staff.

"Went on a Tuesday. Reached there at 12:30 PM. It was quite empty. However it took us a while to find our where to rent the golf carts. Keep 7/11 on your right and take a left Uturn until you see the tricycle rentals. A couple of minutes walk and you'll see the golf cart rentals.

We thought that 3-4 hours would be more than enough but it wasn't as we like to sleep in during our travels. The park is much bigger than we anticipated. We finished about 60-65 % withing 3.5 hours. One of the loveliest semi open zoos I have been to.
Important notes:

- leave nothing in the golf cart as the monkeys may take them. Especially food and drinks. (they took my donut and spilled my coffee) and can be aggressive too

- if you buy tickets online check in with the staff at the small Grey shack/building about 3 mins walk before the main entrance.

-"

hamad Bahrouh

"I was so impressed by my visit to the zoo. The care the animals receive is obvious—they all looked so healthy and vibrant. Every staff member I met was welcoming and friendly, which made the experience even better. The undisputed star of the zoo is Moo Deng, the pygmy hippopotamus, who completely stole the show! Don't miss the capybaras either; they are just as charming. I highly recommend hiring a golf cart; it's the perfect way to explore the entire park comfortably"

Chermin Nithithanaruengsin

"The open concept of the zoo allows the animals to roam in spacious, natural habitats, which makes the visit feel more like a safari adventure than a typical zoo trip. The variety of animals is impressive, from majestic big cats to playful primates and beautiful birds. You can get up close and personal with some of the animals, which is a fantastic experience, especially for kids.

One of the highlights was feeding the giraffes and watching the elephants enjoy their baths. The staff is friendly, knowledgeable, and clearly passionate about caring for the animals. They provide insightful information during feeding times and shows, which adds an educational touch to the visit."

Bruno

What People Like

Spacious natural habitats
Healthy, vibrant animals
Moo Deng the hippo

What People Dislike

Park is very large
Monkeys can be aggressive

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most practical way to visit Khao Kheow Open Zoo from Bangkok is by car or taxi, which takes about 1.5-2 hours. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Bangkok's Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekkamai) to Chonburi and then a local taxi or songthaew to the zoo. Solo travelers might find booking a private tour or a shared minivan more convenient. Reddit

While direct public transport is limited, you can take a bus to Chonburi and then a local taxi. For a more seamless experience, consider ride-sharing apps or pre-arranged transport from your accommodation. Reddit

The zoo is very large, so renting a golf cart is highly recommended for comfortable exploration. They also offer a tram bus system for getting around. Reddit

Khao Kheow Open Zoo is located in Chonburi Province, Thailand, approximately 100 kilometers southeast of Bangkok. Reddit

Yes, you can drive your own car to Khao Kheow Open Zoo. There is ample parking available. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices can vary, but it's advisable to check the official website or book in advance for potential discounts. The Khao Kheow Open Zoo ticket price is generally affordable for the experience offered. Reddit

You can purchase Khao Kheow Open Zoo tickets online in advance for convenience or at the ticket counter just before the main entrance. Reddit

While general admission tickets are standard, inquire about any package deals or special access tickets that might be available, especially if you plan on participating in feeding sessions. Reddit

Khao Kheow Open Zoo is typically open daily from morning until late afternoon. It's best to check their official website for the most current operating hours. Reddit

Booking Khao Kheow Open Zoo tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons or weekends, to ensure smooth entry and potentially secure better pricing. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The undisputed star is Moo Deng, the pygmy hippo! Other highlights include capybaras, giraffes, elephants, and various big cats and primates. The open concept allows for unique viewing opportunities. Reddit

Yes, there are scheduled animal feeding sessions, including for giraffes and elephants, which are very popular. Check the zoo's schedule upon arrival for timings. Reddit

The open zoo concept means animals roam in spacious, naturalistic habitats, allowing visitors to feel like they are on a safari. Many animals are free-roaming within designated areas. Reddit

Absolutely! Kids love the close encounters with animals, feeding sessions, and the general safari-like atmosphere. Renting a golf cart makes it easier for little legs. Reddit

Bring comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, a hat, insect repellent, and plenty of water. Keep snacks and drinks secured to avoid attracting monkeys. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there are food stalls and restaurants within Khao Kheow Open Zoo offering various Thai dishes and snacks. You can also bring your own food, but be mindful of the monkeys. Reddit

You can find typical Thai cuisine, including rice dishes, noodles, and snacks. There are also options for drinks and ice cream. Reddit

Bringing your own food is generally allowed, but it's crucial to keep it well-sealed and away from free-roaming animals, especially the monkeys, who are notorious for snatching food. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The open habitats offer great opportunities for naturalistic animal shots. Feeding sessions, especially with giraffes, and the charming capybaras are also popular photo subjects. The golden hour light in the late afternoon can be magical. Reddit

The open concept allows for closer views than traditional zoos, making photography easier. However, animals are in natural settings, so patience is key. A zoom lens can be beneficial. Reddit

There are no specific mentions of drone usage policies online, but it's generally advisable to avoid flying drones in wildlife parks to prevent disturbing the animals. Always check with zoo management if unsure. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Khao Kheow Open Zoo is a fantastic destination for families. The open-concept enclosures and opportunities for animal feeding create an engaging and educational experience for children. Renting a golf cart is a game-changer for families, making it easy to navigate the large park without little ones getting too tired. Don't miss the chance to see Moo Deng, the pygmy hippo, who is sure to be a hit with kids of all ages. Reddit

Be sure to pack plenty of snacks and drinks, but keep them secure from the mischievous monkeys that roam freely. The zoo's layout and the variety of animals ensure that there's something to capture every child's imagination. The elephant show is also a unique and entertaining spectacle for the whole family. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Khao Kheow Open Zoo offers great value for its admission price, especially considering the expansive grounds and diverse animal collection. While renting a golf cart adds to the cost, it's a worthwhile investment for comfort and efficiency. Consider visiting on a weekday to potentially avoid higher weekend crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience. Reddit

Packing your own food and drinks can significantly cut down on expenses within the park. Look for affordable local transport options to get to the zoo from nearby cities like Pattaya or Bangkok. The overall experience provides a memorable day out without breaking the bank. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Khao Kheow Open Zoo presents a wonderful opportunity to capture animals in more naturalistic settings. The open habitats allow for shots that feel less confined than traditional zoos. Focus on the feeding sessions, especially with the giraffes, for dynamic and engaging photos. The capybaras are also incredibly photogenic due to their calm demeanor. Reddit

Visiting during the early morning or late afternoon can provide softer, more flattering light for your shots. The golden hour in the late afternoon is particularly beautiful. While zoom lenses are helpful, the open concept often allows for closer views than expected. Be patient, as animals in natural settings can be unpredictable. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Vast Park: Golf Carts & Trams

Khao Kheow Open Zoo is a sprawling sanctuary, and exploring it on foot can be challenging, especially under the Thai sun. To make the most of your visit, renting a golf cart is highly recommended. These are available for rent near the entrance and offer the freedom to navigate the park at your own pace. It's the perfect way to cover the significant distances between animal enclosures and ensure you don't miss any key attractions. Remember to keep your belongings secure in the cart, as the resident monkeys are known for their opportunistic thievery! Reddit

For those who prefer not to drive, the zoo also operates a tram bus system. These trams follow set routes, stopping at various points throughout the park. While less flexible than a golf cart, it's a convenient option for getting around and resting your feet. The tram is a good choice for families with young children or visitors who prefer a more guided experience. Reddit

The 'Open Zoo' Philosophy: Animal Welfare and Visitor Experience

Khao Kheow Open Zoo prides itself on its 'open zoo' concept, which aims to provide animals with spacious, naturalistic habitats that mimic their wild environments. This approach allows animals to roam more freely, leading to healthier and more vibrant individuals. Visitors often remark on how well-cared-for the animals appear, noting their healthy coats and active behavior. Reddit

This philosophy translates into a unique visitor experience that feels more like a safari than a traditional zoo. You can observe animals in settings that are closer to their natural behaviors. The zoo also emphasizes interactive experiences, such as feeding sessions with giraffes and elephants, and opportunities to get up close with animals like capybaras. These encounters are designed to be educational and foster a deeper appreciation for wildlife. Reddit

Moo Deng and the Monkey Menace: Wildlife Encounters

The undisputed star of Khao Kheow Open Zoo is Moo Deng, the internet-famous baby pygmy hippo. Meeting Moo Deng is a highlight for many visitors, offering a heartwarming and memorable encounter. Beyond Moo Deng, the zoo is home to a diverse array of animals, including big cats, primates, and a variety of birds. Reddit

However, visitors should be aware of the free-roaming monkeys that inhabit the park. While they add to the wild atmosphere, they are also known to be quite bold and can snatch food, drinks, and even small items from unattended golf carts or visitors. It's crucial to keep all belongings secure and avoid feeding the monkeys directly to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. Reddit

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