If you’re planning a trip to Kuala Lumpur and love animals, there’s good news — the city is full of wild adventures waiting to happen. Beyond the tall Petronas Twin Towers and bustling shopping malls, there are fantastic zoos in Kuala Lumpur where visitors can meet everything from pandas to parrots.
Kuala Lumpur is home to the famous Zoo Negara Kuala Lumpur, which is the national zoo of KL. You will also find charming petting zoos to keep kids busy and entertained. Each spot offers something different, from educational wildlife exhibits to interactive feeding sessions perfect for families and travellers of all ages.
Here’s a complete guide to the best zoos in Kuala Lumpur, with valuable insights and practical details to help plan an unforgettable animal-filled day out.
Which Is the Most Popular Zoo in Kuala Lumpur?
Zoo Negara Kuala Lumpur (National Zoo KL)
Set on 110 acres of green, open land, Zoo Negara Kuala Lumpur is the National Zoo of Malaysia and sits only 5 kilometres from the city centre. You can see more than 5,000 animals from over 470 species living in natural, spacious habitats. The zoo focuses on conservation, education and recreation, giving you a chance to connect with wildlife while enjoying a calm, nature-filled escape from busy Kuala Lumpur.
Some quick facts on Zoo Negara KL:
- Address: Jalan Taman Zooview, Taman Zooview, 68000 Ampang, Selangor, Malaysia
- Timings: 9.00 AM – 5.00 PM (daily)
- Last Admission: 4.00 pm
- Time Required: Around 2 to 3 hours for main highlights
- Entry Fee: MYR 35.85 (MyKad Adult), MYR 16.8 (Children below 12 years)
- Accessibility: Wheelchair-friendly with paved walkways and accessible toilets
- Booking Info: Zoo Negara tickets
How to Reach the National Zoo in KL?
Whether you’re travelling by public transport or a Grab taxi, getting to Zoo Negara KL is super easy:
- By LRT: If you’re staying near Bukit Bintang, KLCC, or Petaling Jaya, take the Kelana Jaya Line and get off at Wangsa Maju Station. From there, you can grab a taxi or a Grab ride to reach the zoo in about 10 minutes.
- By Bus: If you’re near Wangsa Maju or central Kuala Lumpur, take Rapid KL Bus 253 from Putra LRT Station or Rapid KL Bus 220 from Lebuh Ampang. Both routes stop close to the zoo entrance and are ideal if you’re travelling on a budget.
- By Car or Grab: For the quickest and most comfortable trip, book a Grab taxi or drive yourself. From Downtown KL, it takes around 20 minutes to reach the National Zoo KL. There’s paid parking available near the main entrance, and it’s usually easy to find a spot on weekdays.
Key Exhibits at Kuala Lumpur National Zoo (Zoo Negara)
Animals inside the Zoo Negara live in environments that replicate their natural habitat. This allows you to see them in a more natural setting. At the national zoo of KL, you will find over 15 such exhibits to keep your family busy:
- Ape Centre: The Ape Centre is where orangutans and chimpanzees swing, climb and relax under the trees. Watching their playful moves and human-like gestures is both entertaining and a little heartwarming.
- Rimba Biodiversiti: This exhibit celebrates Malaysia’s smallest wonders — insects and butterflies. You can take a close look at these fascinating creatures and learn how they help maintain the ecosystem’s natural balance.
- Hornbill Centre: Seven hornbill species, including the Great and Rhinoceros hornbills, live here. Keep your voice low as you stroll through. If you’re lucky, you might spot a female nesting quietly inside a tree hollow.
- Reptile House: Step into this cool, shady area to see crocodiles, tortoises, lizards, and massive snakes. The reticulated python and green anaconda are the stars, but the smaller reptiles are just as captivating.
- Malaysian Elephants: Three friendly elephants call this area home, including the well-loved Siti and Sibol. Stop by during feeding time to watch them enjoy sugarcane and bananas — it’s always a crowd favourite.
- Bird Aviary: Over 300 free-flying birds fill the air here with colour and sound. Visit around 11 am or 3 pm for feeding time when pelicans, storks and ibises gather in an amazing flurry of wings.
- Australian Plain: Say hello to kangaroos, wallabies, emus and pademelons in this lively corner just outside the aviary. The animals are calm and curious, and the shady trail makes it a pleasant walk for families and children.
- Humboldt Penguins: These energetic penguins are a delight to watch as they dive, splash and glide through the water. Arrive by 11 am for their feeding session to see them at their most playful.
- Bear Complex: This is where the zoo’s three bear species — Asiatic black, brown and Malayan sun bears — spend their day. They often nap in the sun, but stay a little longer to catch them swimming.
- Savannah Walk: This open area feels like a slice of Africa with zebras, giraffes, antelopes and white rhinos sharing one space. It’s a great spot to take wide-angle photos of animals roaming freely.
- Hippopotamus Exhibit: Here you’ll meet both Nile and pygmy hippos enjoying their large, cool pools. Watch for playful splashes in the morning, especially after the keepers finish cleaning and feeding.
- Mammal Kingdom: This dimly lit zone is home to raccoons, civets, leopard cats and capybaras. It’s quieter and cooler here, so take your time — some of these nocturnal animals only appear when it’s calm.
- Tunku Abdul Rahman Aquarium: Walk through Malaysia’s first freshwater aquarium to see how rivers turn into seas. From small highland fish to coral reef species, each tank shows a slice of the country’s incredible aquatic life.
- Cat Walk (Big Cats): This is where the kings of the zoo live — lions, Malayan tigers and leopards. Visit in the cooler morning or late afternoon to catch them walking, roaring or cooling off in the water.
What Happened to the KL Tower Mini Zoo?
Did you know there used to be a little mini-zoo in Kuala Lumpur, right under the famous KL Tower? The KL Tower Mini Zoo, also known as Zoo KL Tower, was divided into fun-themed zones, including Mini Jungle, Moonlight Shed, Happy Farm Village, Birdy School, and Pet Village. It was a favourite stop for families and tourists looking to meet animals like raccoons, meerkats, parrots, and sugar gliders right in the city centre.
The zoo announced its temporary closure in November 2022 and was permanently closed from June 2023. It once offered an easy, hands-on animal experience for those short on time, combining perfectly with a trip up the KL Tower. Although it’s now closed, the Kuala Lumpur Mini Zoo remains fondly remembered as one of the most family-friendly petting zoos in KL. For a touch of nature nearby, the KL Forest Eco Park is still a lovely alternative.
Where Can You Find a Petting Zoo in Kuala Lumpur?
Just because the KL Mini Zoo has closed, it doesn’t mean you have to give up on your kid’s dreams of meeting cute animals. You can still find petting zoos in and around Kuala Lumpur that offer plenty of fun for children. Here are some of the best petting zoos in KL you can explore:
Farm in the City, Seri Kembangan
Located just 40 minutes away from the KL city centre, Farm in the City is one of the most popular petting zoos near Kuala Lumpur. At this petting zoo, your kids can feed rabbits, guinea pigs, alpacas, and deer while learning simple facts about each animal. The village-style layout, shady paths, and helpful staff make it a calm and family-friendly attraction that your kids will absolutely love.
- Location: Lot 40187-40188, Jalan Prima Tropika Barat 1, Pusat Bandar Putra Permai, 43300 Seri Kembangan, Selangor
- Timings: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM ( 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM on Saturday and Sunday)
- Closed on: Tuesdays (except public holidays)
- Admission Fee: MYR 39 (MyKad Adults), MYR 32 (Children below 11 years)
G2G Animal Garden, Seri Kembangan
G2G Animal Garden is another charming petting zoo in KL where kids can meet gentle animals like goats, ponies, birds, and rabbits. Located just 45 minutes from the KL city centre, the garden is small and easy to walk through, making it ideal for families with young children. The environment is bright and welcoming, with plenty of shaded seating areas for parents to relax while kids explore.
- Location: MAEPS, Jalan MAEPS 4/1, Serdang, 43400 Seri Kembangan, Selangor
- Timings: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM ( 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM on Saturday and Sunday)
- Closed on: Tuesdays (except public holidays)
- Admission Fee: MYR 30.45 (MyKad Adult), MYR 25.20 (Children below 12 years)
Children’s World at Zoo Negara Kuala Lumpur
If you don’t wish to make the commute, you can find a petting zoo in KL right inside the Zoo Negara KL premises! The Children’s World area inside Kuala Lumpur’s national zoo is designed especially for kids. It’s one of the most family-oriented parts of the zoo in Kuala Lumpur, featuring friendly animals like goats, deer, and rabbits. Your kids can observe and feed them in a safe, shaded environment while learning how these animals live and eat.
- Location: Zoo Negara, Hulu Kelang, 68000 Ampang, Selangor
- Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily (Last entry 4:00 PM)
What Are Some Other Amazing Animal Attractions in Kuala Lumpur?
Not all animal adventures in Kuala Lumpur are at traditional zoos. The city also boasts a few incredible wildlife attractions that are just as exciting and easy to visit. Here’s a list of other places you can see if you’re a family of animal and nature lovers:
KL Bird Park
If your kids love birds, KL Bird Park in the Perdana Botanical Gardens is a must-visit. It’s the world’s largest free-flight walk-in aviary, home to over 3,000 colourful birds that fly freely around you. Little ones can watch parrots chatter, spot flamingos by the pond, and enjoy daily feeding shows. The shady paths and open spaces make it a fun, easy walk for families.
- Visiting Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Booking Info: KL Bird Park admission ticket with one-way transfer ticket
Pro Tip: Arrive before 11:00 AM to catch the bird feeding shows and see the birds at their most active before the afternoon heat sets in.
Aquaria KLCC
Right under the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, Aquaria KLCC takes families on an incredible underwater journey. Kids will be amazed as they walk through the 90-metre tunnel, where sharks and rays glide overhead. There are touch pools, river exhibits, and feeding shows that keep everyone entertained. It’s cool, educational, and one of the best spots for a family day indoors.
- Visiting Hours: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM (9:00 AM- 9:00 PM on Saturday and Sunday)
- Booking Info: Aquaria KLCC tickets
Pro Tip: Combine your visit with a stroll through KLCC Park or a stop at the Petronas Twin Towers for a complete downtown Kuala Lumpur experience.
Travel Tips for Visiting a Zoo in Kuala Lumpur
Kuala Lumpur’s zoos are spread across open, tropical landscapes, so comfort and timing make a big difference. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Arrive early: Morning is the best time to visit. Animals are more active before the heat sets in, and you’ll find smaller crowds, making it easier for kids to enjoy feeding sessions and keeper talks.
- Stay hydrated: Kuala Lumpur’s weather is warm and humid year-round. Bring a reusable water bottle and stop for short breaks at shaded rest areas or cafés inside the zoo.
- Dress comfortably: Lightweight, breathable clothing and good walking shoes are a must. Larger zoos like Zoo Negara Kuala Lumpur and Farm in the City involve a lot of walking, so sunhats and sunscreen are helpful too.
- Carry cash: While most major attractions accept cards, smaller kiosks, souvenir stalls, and snack shops sometimes prefer cash, especially in outdoor areas.
- Respect the animals: Teach children not to tap on glass, shout, or feed animals outside designated zones. Observing quietly often leads to better sightings and helps the animals stay calm.
- Check the weather: Kuala Lumpur often sees short afternoon showers. Bring a light raincoat or umbrella just in case, and plan indoor attractions like Aquaria KLCC if it looks like rain.
- Plan rest time: Many zoos have shaded picnic spots or cafés. Taking breaks helps kids recharge — and gives you a chance to enjoy the atmosphere instead of rushing through.
Final Thoughts — Which Kuala Lumpur Zoo Is Worth Visiting?
If you’re planning a trip, each zoo in Kuala Lumpur has something special waiting for you. For a full-day adventure, Zoo Negara Kuala Lumpur (the National Zoo KL) is the top choice, with its huge open enclosures and wide variety of animals. If you’re visiting with kids, the petting zoos in KL — like Farm in the City and G2G Animal Garden — are fun, gentle, and full of learning moments.
For something different, KL Bird Park and Aquaria KLCC offer great close-up wildlife encounters right in the city. And though the KL Mini Zoo has closed, Kuala Lumpur still promises plenty of wild, unforgettable memories.
FAQs
1. Which is the best zoo in Malaysia?
The Zoo Negara Kuala Lumpur, also known as the National Zoo of Malaysia, is the best zoo in the country. It covers 110 acres and is home to over 5,000 animals across more than 470 species, offering an immersive wildlife experience.
2. Which is the best aquarium in Malaysia?
The Aquaria KLCC in Kuala Lumpur is considered the best aquarium in Malaysia. Located beneath the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, it features over 5,000 marine and freshwater species, including sharks, rays, and turtles.
3. Does Zoo Negara KL have pandas?
No, Zoo Negara Kuala Lumpur no longer has pandas. The famous giant pandas Xing Xing and Liang Liang were returned to China in 2025, following the end of Malaysia’s loan agreement.
4. Which is the best zoo to visit in Kuala Lumpur?
The Zoo Negara KL is the best zoo in Kuala Lumpur for a full-day wildlife experience. It features a wide range of animals, open habitats, and family-friendly facilities.
5. Is Zoo Negara KL worth visiting?
Yes, Zoo Negara Kuala Lumpur is absolutely worth visiting. It offers close-up encounters with exotic animals, spacious natural enclosures, and educational exhibits, making it enjoyable for both kids and adults.
6. What is the speciality of Zoo Negara Kuala Lumpur?
The speciality of Zoo Negara Kuala Lumpur is its focus on wildlife conservation. Until early 2025, the zoo was known for its two famous giant pandas, which have now been returned to China. Regardless, it is still home to over 5,000 animals from about 500 species, including many rare and native ones. The zoo is also known for its large open enclosures, bird house, aquarium, and entertaining feeding shows.
7. What is the best time to visit Zoo Negara KL?
The best time to visit Zoo Negara Kuala Lumpur is in the early morning, between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM, when animals are most active and the weather is cooler.
8. What is the national zoo of KL?
The National Zoo of Kuala Lumpur is the Zoo Negara. Managed by the Malaysian Zoological Society, it serves as the official national zoo of Malaysia.
9. How long does it take to walk around Zoo Negara?
It takes about 2 to 3 hours to walk around Zoo Negara KL comfortably, depending on how many exhibits you visit and whether you stop for feeding sessions or shows.
10. What is the dress code for Zoo Negara?
There’s no formal dress code at Zoo Negara, but visitors are advised to wear light, breathable clothes and comfortable walking shoes. Hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are also recommended.
11. What is the price of a Zoo Negara ticket?
Zoo Negara tickets on redBus start from MYR 35.85 for MyKad-holding adults and MYR 16.8 for children aged 3-12 years. For non-Malaysian adults, the Zoo Negara ticket price starts from MYR 69.2, and for children, it starts from MYR 40.
12. What are the Zoo Negara opening hours?
Zoo Negara Kuala Lumpur is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with the last admission at 4:00 PM.
13. Are pandas still in Zoo Negara?
No, the giant pandas Xing Xing and Liang Liang returned to China in 2025, so there are currently no pandas at Zoo Negara KL.
14. What day of the week is best to go to Zoo Negara KL?
Weekdays are the best time to visit Zoo Negara Kuala Lumpur. The zoo is less crowded, and the animals are easier to view without long waiting times.
15. Is the mini zoo in KL open?
No, the KL Tower Mini Zoo (also known as Zoo KL Tower) permanently closed in June 2023 after a temporary closure in November 2022.
16. Does Zoo Negara have a petting zoo in KL?
Yes, Zoo Negara Kuala Lumpur has a Children’s World section that works as a small petting zoo in KL, where kids can meet and feed rabbits, goats, and deer.
17. Which is the best petting zoo in KL?
The Farm in the City in Seri Kembangan is the best petting zoo near Kuala Lumpur. It allows kids to get close to friendly animals like rabbits, alpacas, and ponies in a clean, village-style setting.
18. How much does a Farm in the City petting zoo ticket cost?
Tickets for Farm in the City cost MYR 39 (MyKad Adults) and MYR 32 (Children below 11 years).