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For a fun day trip, visit Khao Kheow Open Zoo. It’s educational and a fantastic choice for families. This wildlife park is home to over 300 species. It offers a mix of open enclosures, interactive experiences, and beautiful natural scenery.
Unlike traditional zoos, Khao Kheow is designed so many animals live in large, naturalistic habitats. It’s a place where you can get closer to wildlife. You can learn about conservation in this environment. It’s big enough to feel like an adventure.
🦒 What to Expect
The zoo is huge – you’ll want to allow at least three hours if you plan to explore everything. It’s split into two main zones:
- Zone 1 – Green Zone: Accessible by tram or golf cart. This route takes you past many of the main animal enclosures, including giraffes, elephants, big cats, and the walk‑through aviary.
- Zone 2 – Pink Zone: Only accessible by car or golf cart – no tram service here. This section includes more spread‑out exhibits and is worth visiting if you have the time.
You’ll find a mix of walking areas, drive‑through sections, and shaded spots to rest. There are also feeding opportunities and educational talks throughout the day.
One highlight is the chance to take a photo with an elephant right at its enclosure. We thought it would be a lovely memory. Nonetheless, our youngest daughter was a little scared to get up close. It was a good reminder for us. It even made us rethink our plan to visit an elephant sanctuary later in the trip.
🚗 Getting There
From Pattaya, it’s about a 45‑minute drive. From Laem Chabang (where we stayed), it’s even closer — around 25 minutes. The easiest way is to take a Bolt or Grab if you don’t have your own car.
💡 Personal Tip – Rent a Golf Cart (and Plan Your Route)
We highly recommend renting a golf cart to get around. The zoo covers a large area, and having your own transport makes it much more comfortable, especially with younger children.
- Cost: ฿500 for the first 2 hours
- Extra Time: Extra charge if you go over
- Insurance: ฿50 mandatory fee
- ID: Bring your passport to rent one
Our tip: Start with Zone 2 – Pink Zone first. You can only access it with a car or golf cart, and it’s the longer stretch. The golf cart rental is timed. It’s best to cover this section before moving on to Zone 1 – Green Zone. Zone 1 is more walkable and also served by the tram. This way, you avoid paying extra for a late return.
🎟 Tickets and Prices
- Official Gate Price:
- Adult: ฿350
- Child: ฿120 (includes all free shows)
- Klook Price – ฿315: Slightly cheaper than the gate price and sometimes includes extras.
Important: If you buy from Klook, you’ll need to exchange your voucher for a physical ticket. You must do this at a small hut near the Car Park 1 entrance before entering. It’s not the most convenient process, especially if you arrive during busy times.
🐾 Highlights for Families
- Giraffe feeding – always a hit with the kids
- Elephant enclosure photo spot – great for some, but not for every child
- Walk‑through aviary – colourful birds up close
- Big cat zone – tigers and lions in large habitats
- Play areas – shaded spots for a quick break
⏱ How Long to Spend
If you want to see both zones and attend a few feedings, plan to spend at least three hours. Take your time to enjoy everything. With a golf cart, you can comfortably cover everything without feeling rushed.
❤️ Our Family’s Verdict
Khao Kheow Open Zoo is more than just a day out. It’s a chance to connect with wildlife in a way that’s engaging for both adults and children. The open layout, variety of animals, and family‑friendly facilities make it one of our favourite attractions in Chonburi.
Kids’ Rating: 7/10 – They loved the animals and the golf cart ride. Yet, the size of the zoo meant they were tired by the end. And for our youngest, the elephant photo was a little too close for comfort!
🎟️ Book your tickets here: Khao Kheow Open Zoo on Klook
The Travelling Wee 
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