Khao Kheow Open Zoo, Chonburi

Few zoos in Southeast Asia offer the immersive experience of wandering through open habitats where animals roam freely around you. Khao Kheow Open Zoo transforms the traditional zoo concept into something closer to a safari adventure, where visitors drive or walk through spacious enclosures that house over 8,000 animals from around the world. This innovative approach allows for incredibly close encounters with wildlife while maintaining natural behaviors and habitats that benefit both animals and visitors.

Drive-through sections let you observe giraffes stretching their necks toward your car window, while zebras and antelopes graze peacefully nearby. The walk-through zones reveal playful primates swinging overhead, colorful tropical birds calling from the canopy, and exotic reptiles basking in specially designed habitats. You’ll hear the distinctive calls of gibbons echoing through the trees, catch the earthy scent of the tropical forest, and watch elephants splashing in their pools. Interactive feeding sessions throughout the day provide opportunities to hand-feed gentle giants like giraffes and hippos, creating memorable moments that traditional zoos simply cannot match.

The atmosphere strikes a perfect balance between excitement and tranquility. Families laugh as curious animals approach their vehicles, while couples find peaceful moments watching flamingos wade through serene ponds. Children’s eyes light up during animal shows and educational presentations, and the spacious grounds never feel crowded even on busy days. The natural forest setting creates a sense of adventure and discovery around every corner.

Early morning visits offer the best animal activity and cooler temperatures before the midday heat. Located about 30 minutes from Pattaya, the zoo is easily accessible by car or organized tour. Bring sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes, and extra cash for animal feeding opportunities. Allow a full day to explore all sections properly – the unique open-zoo experience and diverse animal collection make this one of Thailand’s most engaging wildlife attractions for visitors of all ages.