San Diego Zoo is situated in Balboa Park less than four kilometres from Downtown San Diego, California. With over 3,700 animals comprising over 650 species, it has one of the largest zoo memberships in the world. The zoological park is famous for housing and successfully breeding rare giant pandas and endangered species.
Visitors to San Diego Zoo will be amazed at the sheer size of the park. On arrival take a right turn towards Centre Street, a 15-minute walk from the entrance. Here lies the magical gateway to the Asian Passage exhibit. The famous Panda Trek is here. Visitors can enjoy gaining educational tips and information from the keepers of this magnificent and rare species. Close by on Centre Street, discover the Urban Jungle, Outback and the new Africa Rocks exhibits. The Giraffes, Bears, Rhinos and Koalas will capture everyone’s attention offering amazing photo opportunities. Between Elephant Odyssey and the Northern Frontier, visitors can hop on board the Skyfari Aerial tram to reach Lost Forest, Wegeforth Bowl, Discovery Outpost and the Petting Paddock. Bold adventurers can even meet the animals up close. The zoo offers a fascinating interactive experience led by the animal trainers where visitors can join in with feeding times and learn more about the species. Travellers who wish to break for a refreshment or browse for animal themed souvenirs will find several outlets to suit their needs.
Reaching the zoo by car from is easy via Interstate 5 from the north and south, and Interstate 8 from the east. The exits are well signposted, and there is free parking for zoo visitors. Those preferring to journey via public transport can travel by bus from downtown San Diego, the Cruise Ship Terminal and many other city locations. Alternatively, those feeling energetic can walk from Downtown San Diego in less than an hour. Taxi, Uber, rideshare and bike hire options are also available.
San Diego Zoo is a pioneer for building cageless exhibits which best represent the animal’s natural habitat. The park is renowned for its breeding programme for endangered species which began in 1975. With exciting exhibits, a wide variety of rare animals, botanical gardens and trails it’s the perfect day out for all the family.