Khao Kheow Open Zoo
One of Thailand's largest open-enclosure zoos (~800 ha) with over 8,000 animals across spacious habitats.
- Category
- Wildlife & Elephant Sanctuaries
- Entrance fee
- Approx 250 THB foreign adult / 120 THB child as of 2026 (confirm locally)
- Hours
- Daily approx 08:00-17:00 (confirm locally)
- Best time
- Early morning when animals are active and it is cooler
- Time needed
- Half to full day
- Difficulty
- Easy
About Khao Kheow Open Zoo
Khao Kheow is one of Thailand's largest zoos and, by regional standards, a genuinely well-regarded one. It's an open-enclosure setup spread across a huge area, with thousands of animals in habitats that feel far more spacious than the cramped cages you sometimes see elsewhere in Asia.
The scale is both the draw and the practical challenge. It's big enough that walking the whole thing wears you out, so rent a golf cart or use the shuttle to get around comfortably. Plan for a half to full day depending on how thorough you want to be.
Come early in the morning when the animals are active and before the midday heat sets in. It's a solid family day out and a fair way north, so treat it as a dedicated trip.
Highlights
- One of Thailand's largest zoos at around 800 hectares
- Over 8,000 animals in spacious open enclosures
- Well-regarded for animal habitat quality
- Golf carts and shuttles to cover the grounds
Tips
- Arrive early when animals are active and it's cooler
- Rent a golf cart or use the shuttle, as the grounds are huge
- It's a fair drive north, so plan it as a full day trip
- Allow half a day minimum to see it properly
How to get there
About 35-40 km north of Pattaya. Grab/taxi or private car ~45-60 min (~600-900 THB each way); easiest as a day trip or tour.