Hello, I’m Michael Zhang. As someone deeply passionate about exploring history and culture, I’ve had the privilege of traveling across six continents and dozens of countries. Yet every time I journey deeper into China, I rediscover the unique beauty and depth of this land. Today, I want to share with you a light-hearted yet richly rewarding urban experience in Guangzhou: a visit to the Guangzhou Zoo. Whether you’re traveling with kids, a wildlife photography enthusiast, or—like me—someone who enjoys slow-paced city walks, Guangzhou Zoo is absolutely worth your time.

Summary

Guangzhou Zoo Introduction

Guangzhou Zoo, which opened to the public in 1958, covers an area of 42 hectares. The zoo is home to over 450 species and more than 4,500 individual animals, including mammals, reptiles, birds, and fish from China and around the world. Many of them are considered rare or exotic by international standards. Among them, 35 species such as the giant panda, golden monkey, and black-necked crane are under China’s Class I national protection. Another 32 species, including the red panda and white-naped crane, are listed as Class II.

Besides being a wildlife exhibition center, Guangzhou Zoo is also a rich botanical garden. Over 200 species of trees have been planted throughout the zoo, totaling more than 100,000 individual trees.

  • Address: No. 120, Xianlie Middle Road, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou (Apple Maps / Amap)
  • Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM)
  • Recommended Visit Duration: 3–4 hours
  • Best Seasons to Visit: All year round
  • Ticket Price: 20 CNY
  • Ticket Purchase: Trip.com Discounts, Klook Deals
white tiger at Guangzhou Zoo predator zone

Guangzhou Zoo Map

illustrated map of Guangzhou Zoo with attractions

Why You Should Visit Guangzhou Zoo

Historical Significance & Nature Education

Established in 1958, Guangzhou Zoo holds joyful memories for generations of locals. It’s far more than just a place to see animals—it serves as a living textbook of nature. Children can get an up-close look at the adorable giant panda or listen to guides tell fascinating stories about the golden monkey. Every stop becomes a learning opportunity. Moreover, the zoo includes multiple science education zones that use engaging, interactive exhibits to teach kids about animal behavior and inspire a love for the natural world.

Animal Welfare & Ecological Design

Guangzhou Zoo has long upheld an “animal-first” philosophy, focusing on creating environments that resemble the animals’ natural habitats. For example, the panda enclosure was carefully designed to meet the species’ behavioral needs. It not only provides ample space for movement but also simulates the bamboo forests of Sichuan. The zoo’s collection is impressively diverse, featuring over 450 species and more than 4,500 animals, including Class I protected species like giant pandas, golden monkeys, and black-necked cranes.

Family Interaction & Edutainment

Guangzhou Zoo truly excels in family-friendly experiences. It offers science classes, hands-on animal feeding sessions, and a range of events where kids learn while they play. The zoo also regularly hosts themed exhibitions such as butterfly and insect showcases, so each visit feels fresh and exciting. The parent-child interaction zones are especially popular, allowing children to feed alpacas, rabbits, and other small animals. It’s a heartwarming way to strengthen the bond between parents and kids.

Top Things to Do in Guangzhou Zoo

Main Attractions

Predator Zone

The Predator Zone is one of the most visually powerful areas in Guangzhou Zoo, home to large carnivores such as the Siberian tiger, African lion, and leopard. The semi-open habitat design not only ensures safety but also closely replicates a natural environment. The Siberian tiger stands out with its massive build and commanding presence. Nearby, African lions often lie lazily in the grass, exuding regal confidence. Leopards, known for their agility and heightened awareness, offer thrilling moments for wildlife observers. This zone is particularly ideal for those who appreciate the raw beauty of wild predators.

white lions relaxing at Guangzhou Zoo predator area

Primate Zone

Full of interaction and fun, the Primate Zone is a hotspot for families. It houses intelligent primates such as gibbons and chimpanzees. Gibbons are remarkably agile and swing gracefully through the air, showcasing their acrobatic skills. Chimpanzees are famous for their social nature and mimicry; they often make eye contact with visitors and even imitate human gestures, drawing bursts of laughter. Observation windows throughout the area allow visitors to experience the daily lives of these “forest people” up close.

golden monkey at Guangzhou Zoo primate exhibit

Panda Pavilion

The Panda Pavilion is the star attraction of Guangzhou Zoo and home to two beloved giant pandas—Xing Yi and Ya Yi. These charming pandas are calm and friendly, often seen eating or resting together among the bamboo groves. They are most active in the morning, making it the best time for close-up viewing and photography. The pavilion’s environment simulates the original ecosystems of Sichuan, complete with temperature controls and bamboo landscaping, providing a cozy habitat for these national treasures. Panda fans are encouraged to arrive early to beat the crowds and capture adorable shots.

giant panda sitting in bamboo at Guangzhou Zoo

Herbivore Zone

This section presents a gentler and friendlier side of the animal kingdom. It features gentle herbivores such as giraffes, zebras, and Asian elephants. The giraffe feeding activity is especially popular with children; for 10 RMB, guests can hand-feed these towering animals and feel their soft, nimble tongues curl around the leaves. Zebras roam leisurely across the grasslands, while the intelligent and calm Asian elephants remain a favorite among photographers. With its lush greenery, this area offers a peaceful setting to connect with animals and unwind.

giraffes feeding at Guangzhou Zoo herbivore zone

Guangzhou Zoo Ticket Guide

Ticket Prices

  • Adults: 20 CNY
  • Children: 10 CNY (For children between 1.2m and 1.5m in height, or aged 6–18)
  • Students: 10 CNY (Applicable to students below undergraduate level)
  • Seniors: 10 CNY (Aged 60 to 64)
  • Free Admission: For children under 1.2m in height, under age 6, or seniors over 65

Where to Buy Tickets

  • Online: Through the official WeChat account or booking platforms
  • Offline: Ticket booths at all entrances

Depending on your point of entry, Guangzhou Zoo offers several possible routes. Here are my recommended itineraries:

  • Enter from North Gate → Monkeys → Orangutans → Black Bears → Leopards → Lions → Black Swans → Flamingos → Ring-Tailed Lemurs → Giant Pandas → Elephants → Giraffes → Zebras → Rhinos → Kangaroos → Bird Paradise → Koi Garden → Tiger Mountain → Exit North Gate
  • Enter from South Gate → Flamingos → Playground → Zebras → Giraffes → Elephants → Pandas → Rhinos → Deer → Antelope → Meerkats → Pelicans → Black Swans → Lions → Leopards → Tiger Mountain → Hippos → Koi Garden → Bird Paradise → Exit South Gate
  • Enter from South Gate → Flamingos → Playground → Takin → Zebras → Kangaroos → Rhinos → Giraffes → Elephants → Pandas → Monkey Mountain → Red Pandas → Egret Lake → Hippos → Jaguars → Tiger Mountain → Bear Mountain → Lions → Monkeys → Goose Lake → Panlong Garden → Exit North Gate

Tips:

  • Interactive experiences: Feed giraffes, alpacas at the Fun Farm, or catch fish in Koi Garden.
  • Arrive before 9 AM for fewer crowds and more active animals. Most animals nap around midday.
  • Parents with kids should consider entering from the North Gate—no uphill walking and baby strollers are highly recommended.
  • The South Gate is closer to the playground and Panda Pavilion, but during Chinese holidays, expect a line to see the pandas.

There are plenty of dining options around Guangzhou Zoo. Inside the zoo, there are restaurants with an average price of about 35 CNY per person. However, there are even more options just outside the zoo. I recommend exiting from the South Gate to find food, as restaurants there are outside the tourist area and offer more variety, with average prices around 20 CNY per person.

Zhaixiangkou Beef Rice Noodles Restaurant

beef rice noodles near Guangzhou Zoo
  • Why it’s recommended: The rice noodles are smooth and chewy, while the beef is fresh and tender. Topped with refreshing mint leaves, each bite leaves a lasting impression.
  • Address: Baoshan Mansion, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou (Apple Maps/Amap)
  • Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
  • Average Price: 24 CNY

Dagefan (Zoo Branch)

roast pigeon and yellow wine near Guangzhou Zoo South Gate
  • Why it’s recommended: Located right next to the South Gate of Guangzhou Zoo, this restaurant is especially popular with families. You’ll often see strollers parked at the entrance. For families with kids, the restaurant offers complimentary millet porridge and steamed eggs.
  • Address: No. 501, Huanshi East Road, opposite Exit C of Zoo South Gate, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou (Apple Maps/Amap)
  • Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 11:00 AM – 2:30 PM, 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
  • Average Price: 80 CNY

If convenience is your priority when visiting Guangzhou Zoo, I recommend staying in the Liwan District. This area suits most tourists well. Try to find accommodations near Chen Clan Ancestral Hall Station, which connects to Metro Lines 1 and 8. It’s surrounded by popular attractions and local eats, and very close to Chen Clan Ancestral Hall, Yongqing Fang, Shamian Island, and Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street.

From here, it’s also convenient to reach Canton Tower, Guangzhou Opera House, Guangdong Provincial Museum, and travel to/from Guangzhou Baiyun Airport.

Feifan International Hotel (Guangzhou Zhongshan 8th Subway Station Yongqingfang Branch)

Feifan International Hotel (Guangzhou Zhongshan Ba Metro Station Yongqing Fang Branch)
  • Location: 10 minutes walk from Chen Clan Academy Metro Station, 9 minutes walk from Changshou Road Metro Station
  • Price Range: 297 RMB
  • Check Room Rates: Trip.com Specials, Compare on Klook
  • Rating: 4.6 on Trip
  • Special Amenities: Gym, laundry room, robot room service, triple rooms

The hotel is ideally located with various dining options just outside. Attractions like Chen Clan Academy and Lychee Bay are just a short walk of over ten minutes away. There are bus services right downstairs, and the metro station is only a ten-minute walk.

The rooms are luxuriously simple and comfortable with well-separated dry and wet areas in the bathrooms. The rooms are spacious and bright, exceptionally clean, with fresh, odor-free bedding. The staff is enthusiastic and attentive.

Liangyou Departure Hotel (Guangzhou Ximenkou Subway Station Beijing Road Pedestrian Street)

Liangyou Qicheng Hotel (Guangzhou Ximenkou Metro Station Beijing Road Pedestrian Street Branch)
  • Location: 10 minutes walk from Ximenkou Metro Station, 14 minutes walk from Chen Clan Academy Metro Station
  • Price Range: 315 RMB
  • Check Room Rates: Trip.com Specials
  • Rating: 4.7 on Trip
  • Special Amenities: Gym, laundry room

Excellent location with plenty of dining options on Xihua Road just downstairs. It’s only a 10-minute walk to Ximenkou Metro Station, where Lines 1 and 2 offer easy access to numerous attractions. A taxi ride from Shamian Island back to the hotel costs only 14 RMB, making it extremely convenient and highly recommended.

Great service, clean, tidy, and comfortable rooms with good soundproofing. The rooms are well-equipped with large projection screens that provide excellent viewing quality. The breakfast is abundant. The laundry facilities on the 15th floor are conveniently accessible.

Yizhi Hotel (Guangzhou Beijing Road Chen Clan Academy Metro Station)

Yizhi Hotel (Guangzhou Beijing Road Chen Clan Academy Metro Station)
  • Location: 3 minutes walk from Chen Clan Academy Metro Station
  • Price Range: 429 RMB
  • Check Room Rates: Trip.com Specials, Compare on Klook
  • Rating: 4.5 on Trip
  • Special Amenities: Gym, laundry room, robot room service

Excellently located next to the metro station and major bus hubs, providing convenient access to Chen Clan Academy, Tianhe CBD, Beijing Road Pedestrian Street, and the Pearl River night cruise.

The rooms are designed with simplicity and elegance, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows that provide ample natural light. The bedding is soft and skin-friendly. The bathrooms are well designed with wet and dry separation and equipped with smart toilets. The daily cleaning service is meticulous, ensuring even the corners are spotless.

How to Get to Guangzhou Zoo from Downtown Guangzhou

The most convenient way to reach Guangzhou Zoo is by metro. Both Line 5 and Line 6 stop near the zoo. After getting off the train, it’s a 10-minute walk to the entrance.

Metro

If you’re heading to the South Gate, take Metro Line 5 and get off at Zoo Station. Use Exit C and walk about 10 minutes to the zoo. For the North Gate, take Line 6 and get off at Huanghuagang Station. Use Exit A and also walk about 10 minutes.

Bus

Several bus lines go directly to the zoo. To get to the South Gate, take bus 137, 221, 287, or 549. To reach the North Gate, take bus 72, 74, 84, 127, 220, 246, or 706.

Taxi or Ride-Hailing Services

From downtown Guangzhou, taking a taxi or ride-hailing car will take about 15 minutes and cost approximately 20 CNY.

FAQ

Is Guangzhou Zoo stroller- and wheelchair-friendly?

Yes. Guangzhou Zoo is designed with accessibility in mind for families and elderly visitors. Barrier-free facilities make moving around the zoo easier. Strollers and wheelchairs are also available for rent inside the zoo.

Where can I store luggage?

At the North Gate Visitor Center, you can store large pieces of luggage for free. Strollers and wheelchairs can also be rented there.

Essential Guangzhou Travel Resources