Khao Kheow Open Zoo, Si Racha: Hours, Address, Khao Kheow Open Zoo Reviews: 4.5/5
Khao Kheow Open Zoo
Khao Kheow Open Zoo
4.5
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Monday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Tuesday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Wednesday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Thursday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Friday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Saturday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Sunday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
About
Khao Kheow Open Zoo, for over 32 years, has been a cherished resource located in Chonburi Province .The zoo encompasses over 2,000 acres of the Khao Kheow-Khao Chom Puo Wildlife Sanctuary. The zoo grounds are divided into animal habitats (400 acres), public recreational areas (200 acres) and research area (1,400 acres) which is used for the breeding of various endangered species. It is the first zoo in Thailand to become a member of WAZA .
Suggested duration
More than 3 hours
Features animals
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The area
Address
Best nearby
Restaurants
1 within 3 miles
Attractions
2 within 6 miles
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
1,985 reviews
Excellent
1,286
Very good
493
Average
137
Poor
32
Terrible
38
Rampi M
24 contributions
Family
Awesome place Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Chonburi. Not very crowded during the COVID pandemic. Have open golf cart style cars to drive around inside the Chonburi zoo. 2 sizes of carts. Also a free open bigger open car to take you around.
They do not allow you to feed the animals. Monkeys in some areas so mind your belongings.
Quite a few coffee shops inside the Khao Kheow Zoo.
Worth a visit with the kids. Carry some food if you happen to be fussy about eating. 😁
They do not allow you to feed the animals. Monkeys in some areas so mind your belongings.
Quite a few coffee shops inside the Khao Kheow Zoo.
Worth a visit with the kids. Carry some food if you happen to be fussy about eating. 😁
Written December 21, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Healinglife
Si Racha, Thailand29 contributions
Feed Lions and Tigers and Jaguars!!! I mean common! And feed Hippos and even pat Rinos!! I felt like a kid and was giddy all over. It is in a large mountainous area so it is better for the animals than most zoos. Some animals roam free as well. They save elephants who were mistreated as well, and you can hang out with chimps and orangutans.
Only negatives is it is always sad to see large cats in captivity because they would love to run. The other animals seem like their space is not too bad. Also the food there is limited and terrible so bring some snacks!
Only negatives is it is always sad to see large cats in captivity because they would love to run. The other animals seem like their space is not too bad. Also the food there is limited and terrible so bring some snacks!
Written October 22, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Joe M
Pattaya, Thailand162 contributions
Family
Side note: In the last 60 days, I have reviewed Manila Zoo and Zoobic Safari (admission for 3 was $37!) in Philippines. Khao Kheow zoo (admission for 3 was $16!) in Thailand makes you understand why Thailand gets tourist in the double-digit millions, while the Philippines does not.
Before I get to the good things of this zoo, I have only ONE thing to say negative about the zoo ... if you drive up in your car (highly suggested), no one knows anything and no one will explain what to do (even in THAI language!). Here are a few tips:
1a. Drive up and stop before the gate at the shack on the left and buy tickets.
2. Drive through the gate and waive your tickets at the dozen people standing around.
2b. Buy sacks of cheap animal food before entering the park from the vendors on the right as you drive in.
3. Follow the signs for "Tour the Zoo".
4. Park -- walk around and enjoy.
5. Move the car to the next parking lot and repeat.
Doesn't sound like much, but when you don't know where you are going or what you are supposed to do, or where you are supposed to park the car, it is daunting.
GETTING THERE: There is no public transportation and this zoo is located a LONG WAY from town. It is approximately 35-50 minutes or so from Pattaya.
1. Rent a car. Best choice because you use your car to get around inside the zoo ... almost safari style.
2. Rent a taxi and driver. Expensive but easy if you don't want to drive in Thailand -- I would guess 2000baht for less than 8 hours. (One reviewer said 1200b, which I think was a great deal not often repeated).
3. Go on an organized tour group bus. Cheap, but when you get there, you will need to rent a golf cart to get around, otherwise you will be exhausted and will likely skip some of the scenes.
COST: Thais pay 70b and Foreigners pay 300b. My wife handled the tickets and the staff didn't bother to tell her that I should have paid 70b also because of my Thai drivers license. HOWEVER, after seeing the zoo, I was NOT unhappy to have paid 300b.
There were NO scammers inside the gates trying to force pictures on you, or wanting to charge you to touch this animal, or this exhibit. That was a wonderful change from other zoos I have recently visited. There were only a few extra charges -- and most of it was for animal food (VERY reasonable at less than $.75USD)
EATING: There are NO vendors aggravating you every step of the way. There are small vendor booths selling water, soft drinks, ice cream, snacks, etc all through the park.
If you came in your car or private taxi, you can bring your own snacks and drinks. You can picnic if you wish. You can also return in your car to the front gate at any time to buy cooked-to-order thai food, and then return back to where you stopped.
I suggest bringing the chips, crackers and specific snacks that your kids like as the selection in the park will often appeal more to Thais than foreigners. Keeping bottled water in the car is another easy way to stay hydrated.
KIDS v ADULTS: This is not a zoo for very little children IMO. This zoo is big - there is a lot of walking and some very steep steps up the mountain to see some items like the aviary cages. Little children may not enjoy it as much. I realize this contradicts another reviewer here, so take in all the information and make your own judgement. (Some of the steps were so large and far apart, that I found them difficult). This *IS* a great family activity.
OLDER ADULTS: The same warning is true for older adults, but we figured we could come back and drive the in-laws around the zoo ... and only stop at 1-2 of the flat, easy to get to sections that have the most activities together.
Another reviewer pointed out that this isn't a "safari" zoo and he is correct. But driving around on paved roads and parking near the events is quite nice and peaceful. It is also CLEAN and maintained.
That same reviewer talked about the worst part of the zoo -- the way the cats were kept. I agree 100%. It is actually quite a let-down to see the cats exhibit.
LAYOUT AND ENCLOSURES: Many of the enclosures and exhibit areas were HUGE ... and quite beautiful to see. The animals looked healthy and content.
SHADE: There is a surprising amount of shade and covers where you can get out of the sun/heat. I was very impressed with this.
FEEDING THE ANIMALS: Probably the best part of the visit is feeding the animals. Giraffes, Rhinos, Water Buffalo, Elephants, Deer, Monkeys and much more were available for feeding.
I have never been so close to a rhinoceros before. These animals are HUGE. Another reviewer wrote: "They enjoyed the challenge of aiming the food accurately into the hippos’ wide opened mouth..." ... and I have to admit that we enjoyed that as well!
GETTING AROUND THE ZOO: I already said that a car or private taxi is the best choice; renting a golf cart is next best choice. I did see ONE tram going around the park, but it appeared to be for a specific group of people. Another reviewer stated that the tram was available, but it doesn't stop - just takes you around the zoo as an overview.
OTHER ACTIVITIES: We did not participate in the "flight of the gibbon" zipline as we planned to return another weekend for that. The Penguin exhibit did have an extra charge of 20b but it was unique to see and watch the group playing in their pools.
Another reviewer said to bring swimsuits and you can swim in the waterfalls. We didn't see anyone doing that so can't comment on it.
The zoo does have some areas that need improvement however. In the bird cage areas, the caging mesh is double layered and so thick that viewing the birds is a chore. There is a glass panel to make it easier, but it was so dirty that I doubt that it is EVERY cleaned.
My final TIPS:
1. Come in your car
2. Buy animal food before going into the zoo
3. Have snacks and water in the car
4. Bring TOILET PAPER. There is none at the zoo
5. Bring hand DISINFECTANT.
6. Don't hurry. Take pictures. Enjoy.
Before I get to the good things of this zoo, I have only ONE thing to say negative about the zoo ... if you drive up in your car (highly suggested), no one knows anything and no one will explain what to do (even in THAI language!). Here are a few tips:
1a. Drive up and stop before the gate at the shack on the left and buy tickets.
2. Drive through the gate and waive your tickets at the dozen people standing around.
2b. Buy sacks of cheap animal food before entering the park from the vendors on the right as you drive in.
3. Follow the signs for "Tour the Zoo".
4. Park -- walk around and enjoy.
5. Move the car to the next parking lot and repeat.
Doesn't sound like much, but when you don't know where you are going or what you are supposed to do, or where you are supposed to park the car, it is daunting.
GETTING THERE: There is no public transportation and this zoo is located a LONG WAY from town. It is approximately 35-50 minutes or so from Pattaya.
1. Rent a car. Best choice because you use your car to get around inside the zoo ... almost safari style.
2. Rent a taxi and driver. Expensive but easy if you don't want to drive in Thailand -- I would guess 2000baht for less than 8 hours. (One reviewer said 1200b, which I think was a great deal not often repeated).
3. Go on an organized tour group bus. Cheap, but when you get there, you will need to rent a golf cart to get around, otherwise you will be exhausted and will likely skip some of the scenes.
COST: Thais pay 70b and Foreigners pay 300b. My wife handled the tickets and the staff didn't bother to tell her that I should have paid 70b also because of my Thai drivers license. HOWEVER, after seeing the zoo, I was NOT unhappy to have paid 300b.
There were NO scammers inside the gates trying to force pictures on you, or wanting to charge you to touch this animal, or this exhibit. That was a wonderful change from other zoos I have recently visited. There were only a few extra charges -- and most of it was for animal food (VERY reasonable at less than $.75USD)
EATING: There are NO vendors aggravating you every step of the way. There are small vendor booths selling water, soft drinks, ice cream, snacks, etc all through the park.
If you came in your car or private taxi, you can bring your own snacks and drinks. You can picnic if you wish. You can also return in your car to the front gate at any time to buy cooked-to-order thai food, and then return back to where you stopped.
I suggest bringing the chips, crackers and specific snacks that your kids like as the selection in the park will often appeal more to Thais than foreigners. Keeping bottled water in the car is another easy way to stay hydrated.
KIDS v ADULTS: This is not a zoo for very little children IMO. This zoo is big - there is a lot of walking and some very steep steps up the mountain to see some items like the aviary cages. Little children may not enjoy it as much. I realize this contradicts another reviewer here, so take in all the information and make your own judgement. (Some of the steps were so large and far apart, that I found them difficult). This *IS* a great family activity.
OLDER ADULTS: The same warning is true for older adults, but we figured we could come back and drive the in-laws around the zoo ... and only stop at 1-2 of the flat, easy to get to sections that have the most activities together.
Another reviewer pointed out that this isn't a "safari" zoo and he is correct. But driving around on paved roads and parking near the events is quite nice and peaceful. It is also CLEAN and maintained.
That same reviewer talked about the worst part of the zoo -- the way the cats were kept. I agree 100%. It is actually quite a let-down to see the cats exhibit.
LAYOUT AND ENCLOSURES: Many of the enclosures and exhibit areas were HUGE ... and quite beautiful to see. The animals looked healthy and content.
SHADE: There is a surprising amount of shade and covers where you can get out of the sun/heat. I was very impressed with this.
FEEDING THE ANIMALS: Probably the best part of the visit is feeding the animals. Giraffes, Rhinos, Water Buffalo, Elephants, Deer, Monkeys and much more were available for feeding.
I have never been so close to a rhinoceros before. These animals are HUGE. Another reviewer wrote: "They enjoyed the challenge of aiming the food accurately into the hippos’ wide opened mouth..." ... and I have to admit that we enjoyed that as well!
GETTING AROUND THE ZOO: I already said that a car or private taxi is the best choice; renting a golf cart is next best choice. I did see ONE tram going around the park, but it appeared to be for a specific group of people. Another reviewer stated that the tram was available, but it doesn't stop - just takes you around the zoo as an overview.
OTHER ACTIVITIES: We did not participate in the "flight of the gibbon" zipline as we planned to return another weekend for that. The Penguin exhibit did have an extra charge of 20b but it was unique to see and watch the group playing in their pools.
Another reviewer said to bring swimsuits and you can swim in the waterfalls. We didn't see anyone doing that so can't comment on it.
The zoo does have some areas that need improvement however. In the bird cage areas, the caging mesh is double layered and so thick that viewing the birds is a chore. There is a glass panel to make it easier, but it was so dirty that I doubt that it is EVERY cleaned.
My final TIPS:
1. Come in your car
2. Buy animal food before going into the zoo
3. Have snacks and water in the car
4. Bring TOILET PAPER. There is none at the zoo
5. Bring hand DISINFECTANT.
6. Don't hurry. Take pictures. Enjoy.
Written December 13, 2012
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Rm3210123
1 contribution
Family
This zoo was good when you could use cars and would be good if you could use them now. Sadly they have used covid to change the rules so you have to use golf carts (500b for 2 hours) or the bus. I used the bus on a school trip and it's fun so we decided on that.
It should be noted that if this change is for covid it is nonsense. The car is much more secure covid wise, the buses no social distancing and the carts werent cleaned on handover.
This change might work theoretically but when it started raining we were dumped at a 7/11 without warning or information. It is wet season, it rains every day, but there is no plan. 30 minutes later I found the pr office on the complex we were dumped in and asked why we were stood there. Rain. Why cant we use cars? Laugh, no answer. (Real answer - short term profits).
So the 3 options were to hire a cart with no sides to drive on wet mountainous roads and get wet, rely on a bus that would dump us if the black clouds opened or go home. We walked about 1km downhill to the car parks (no signposts where the car parks are) and got wet again.
This zoo is designed for cars. If the website had advised of the changes we wouldn't have gone as it's obvious it wont work. They arent advertised as they know it's obvious. We wont be going back until cars are allowed.
It should be noted that if this change is for covid it is nonsense. The car is much more secure covid wise, the buses no social distancing and the carts werent cleaned on handover.
This change might work theoretically but when it started raining we were dumped at a 7/11 without warning or information. It is wet season, it rains every day, but there is no plan. 30 minutes later I found the pr office on the complex we were dumped in and asked why we were stood there. Rain. Why cant we use cars? Laugh, no answer. (Real answer - short term profits).
So the 3 options were to hire a cart with no sides to drive on wet mountainous roads and get wet, rely on a bus that would dump us if the black clouds opened or go home. We walked about 1km downhill to the car parks (no signposts where the car parks are) and got wet again.
This zoo is designed for cars. If the website had advised of the changes we wouldn't have gone as it's obvious it wont work. They arent advertised as they know it's obvious. We wont be going back until cars are allowed.
Written July 28, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Sue A
Long Marston, UK1 contribution
Solo
Forcing elephants to swim in a pool....Abhorrent and shameful treatment of such majestic mammals! Do not go!!
This issue has been highlighted on Twitter and other social media...and sadly it is advertised still on the zoo's website.
Please do not watch this show...if you do you are perpetuating and prolonging the abuse!
This issue has been highlighted on Twitter and other social media...and sadly it is advertised still on the zoo's website.
Please do not watch this show...if you do you are perpetuating and prolonging the abuse!
Written May 31, 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
angiemckeown
Tenby, UK1 contribution
Couples
I am a veterinarian from the UK, and only ended up in the Zoo as it is part of the flight of gibbon zipline experience,(which i must say was a brilliant activity).
However, you are then subjected to a 45minute horror show around the open zoo. The animals in this zoo are nothing but mistreated and entertainment objects, and i am shocked to see any positive comments on Tripadvisor. The enclosures were filthy and far too small for the size of the poor animals and i could not wait to leave, as this dampened the whole experience. I think the Flight of the Gibbons Team should totally disassociate themselves from the zoo.
However, you are then subjected to a 45minute horror show around the open zoo. The animals in this zoo are nothing but mistreated and entertainment objects, and i am shocked to see any positive comments on Tripadvisor. The enclosures were filthy and far too small for the size of the poor animals and i could not wait to leave, as this dampened the whole experience. I think the Flight of the Gibbons Team should totally disassociate themselves from the zoo.
Written December 21, 2017
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Fanny M
Saint Junien, France5 contributions
Solo
The treatment of animals is unbearable in this place.
To make aquatic glasses with elephants is really cruel !
Please dont go, dont bring your child in this place.
To make aquatic glasses with elephants is really cruel !
Please dont go, dont bring your child in this place.
Written May 22, 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Thomasthetank66
Sydney, Australia1 contribution
Couples
We went ziplining which was amazing. However as part of the deal they took us to this zoo. Firstly our guide couldn't have been less interested in his passengers if he was unconscious. Secondly we are all animal lovers in our group and we were all appalled to see a giraffe with a tranquilliser dart sticking out of it's flesh. We saw an Elephant with both back legs chained together. There were deer with unhealthy looking coats. The various monkeys were in cages which were spartan and waterless. If you are an animal lover I urge you not to visit this zoo. The only reason we did was because we were forced to and we regret it.
Written February 13, 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
shamberina
Lagos, Nigeria1 contribution
Family
I was disgusted with the treatment of animals at this zoo. Teaching our children to see animals in this environment and to be poked and prodded and forced to do unnatural things is not something we should be proud of. The elephants in fish tank viewing pools was just the worst.
You should take this off your site Tripadvisor and not be promoting such places.
You should take this off your site Tripadvisor and not be promoting such places.
Written August 27, 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Toby S
1 contribution
Family
I think the zoo has good ideas and direction but not happy with witnessing the Elephants in chains and the handler at the feeding station with a nail on his cane. Only can assume these elephants have had their "spirit broken" cruelly in order for them to "behave" for visitors. Have photos of the chains and handler.
Written December 19, 2015
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
David_H_BKK
Bangkok, Thailand125 contributions
Are there any real trekking trails around Khao Kheow? For example a hike to the peak or a 2hr+ walk around the nature reserve with viewpoints? Looking for hike options closer to BKK or Pattaya.
Max
Bangkok, Thailand119 contributions
Jast a historical cave that spend time about 30 min and it is close to the canal, no hiking
destiny
6 contributions
If I were to rent a car with driver to visit the zoo. Does we need to pay entrance fee for the driver?
Ksenia C
Thailand19 contributions
If you wanna go inside the zoo with this car, then, yes, u have to buy the ticket for the driver also. But for thai people it will be cheaper then for foreigners. Other option is to rent a golf car inside the zoo, but it will be definitely more expensive, than pay a tocket for a driver. And the main thing: go buy tickets by yourself, dont let the driver do that. Otherwise, the driver can name you the higher price and get commission from the zoo.
LBG_Italy
Hong Kong24 contributions
Klook has option purchase tickets with lunch buffet. Is lunch buffet the only option? Are there restaurant or cafe inside zoo we can order food? Thanks!
if i enter this zoo with personal car(taxi) instead of golf cart,
how much is it cost?
is it free for vehicle except adult&child fee?
changyoonk
Jeju Island, South Korea102 contributions
Sorry! We just used the cart, so I don't know if they cost you when using your own car including taxis.
Bob R
Rehovot, Israel86 contributions
How long would you spend there? how does it compare to the sriacha tiger zoo?
Vinty K
Kolkata (Calcutta), India30 contributions
in my opinion around 2-3 hours would be sufficient, if you are planning to walk through the zoo then it's different as that may take more time. we took a golf cart so you'll have to book for your required duration accordingly.
ค่าเข้าเด็กและผู้ใหญ่
warang44
Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand493 contributions
ผู้ใหญ่150
เด็ก30
รถยนต์40
Mercedes V
1 contribution
Is it true you guys force elephants to swim? To do a show by forcing them and pulling their ears... Scare them, abuse them with bullhooks?
Laura B
Rotterdam, The Netherlands2 contributions
Yes, it terrible..
Frequently Asked Questions about Khao Kheow Open Zoo
- Khao Kheow Open Zoo is open:
- Sun - Sat 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
- Hotels near Khao Kheow Open Zoo:
- (9.36 mi) Oakwood Hotel and Residence Sriracha
- (9.89 mi) Novotel Sriracha & Koh Si Chang Marina Bay
- (8.69 mi) Balcony Seaside Sriracha Hotel & Serviced Apartments
- (8.77 mi) Balcony Courtyard Sriracha Hotel & Serviced Apartments
- (9.18 mi) Citadines Grand Central Sri Racha
- Restaurants near Khao Kheow Open Zoo:
- (8.96 mi) Mum Aroi
- (9.07 mi) California Steak Restaurant
- (2.92 mi) Talay Blue
- (9.29 mi) Le Marin Restaurant
- (9.09 mi) Swensens
- Attractions near Khao Kheow Open Zoo:
- (1.34 mi) Khao Kheow Country Club
- (4.20 mi) Bang Pra Reservoir
- (6.51 mi) J Park
- (9.39 mi) HarborLand @Tukcom Sriracha
- (9.35 mi) HarborLand & RollerLand @Tukcom Chonburi