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Zoos in the world are more than just places to see exotic animals; they play a crucial role in conservation, education, and research. The world’s top zoos offer immersive experiences that allow visitors to connect with nature while supporting wildlife preservation. From sprawling safari parks to innovative conservation centres, these zoos provide a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness rare and endangered species up close. If you’re passionate about wildlife, these ten must-visit zoos in the world promise an unforgettable experience.
Top 10 Zoos In The World
Here is a list of the top 10 zoos in the world:
1. Toronto Zoo, Canada
Photo: Adam Bishop / Wikimedia Commons
As Canada’s largest zoo, the Toronto Zoo spans 710 acres and is home to over 5,000 animals, representing 450 species. Divided into seven geographical zones, it allows visitors to explore diverse ecosystems, from the African Savanna to the Tundra Trek. The zoo actively engages in conservation programs, including breeding efforts for endangered species such as the Amur tiger. It also features interactive exhibits, such as the award-winning Gorilla Rainforest.
Location: 2000 Meadowvale Rd, Toronto, ON M1B 5K7, Canada
Nearest Airport: Toronto Pearson International Airport
Entry Fees: CAD 30 / ₹1,815
Timings: 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM
2. Columbus Zoo And Aquarium, USA
Photo: loganrickert / Wikimedia Commons
Located in Ohio, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium covers 580 acres and houses over 10,000 animals from around the world. People widely recognise it for its extensive conservation work and educational programs. The zoo’s regions include the Heart of Africa, Asia Quest, and Australia and the Islands. Visitors can enjoy unique experiences such as feeding giraffes or taking a boat ride through the Islands exhibit.
Location: 4850 W Powell Rd, Powell, OH 43065, USA
Nearest Airport: John Glenn Columbus International Airport
Entry Fees: USD 25.99 / ₹2,250
Timings: 10 AM – 5 AM
3. Bronx Zoo, USA
Photo: Chris Costello / Wikimedia Commons
Spanning 265 acres in the heart of New York City, the Bronx Zoo is one of the largest metropolitan zoos. Home to over 6,000 animals from 700 species, it offers immersive exhibits such as the Congo Gorilla Forest, Himalayan Highlands, and JungleWorld. The zoo’s commitment to global conservation efforts includes active support for wildlife preservation initiatives. Visitors can experience up-close encounters with big cats, reptiles, and birds.
Location: 2300 Southern Blvd, Bronx, NY 10460, USA
Nearest Airport: LaGuardia Airport
Entry Fees: USD 28.95 / ₹2,510
Timings: 10 AM – 4:30 PM
4. Henry Doorly Zoo And Aquarium, USA
Photo: Cburnett / Wikimedia Commons
Located in Omaha, Nebraska, the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium is renowned for its world-class exhibits and groundbreaking research. Covering 130 acres, it features the world’s largest indoor desert and the largest glazed geodesic dome. The zoo is home to over 17,000 animals from nearly 1,000 species. Popular attractions include the Lied Jungle, Kingdoms of the Night, and the Scott Aquarium.
Location: 3701 S 10th St, Omaha, NE 68107, USA
Nearest Airport: Eppley Airfield
Entry Fees: USD 31.95 / ₹2,770
Timings: 10 AM – 4 AM
5. San Diego Zoo, USA
Photo: Andrewjames954 / Wikimedia Commons
Situated in Balboa Park, California, the San Diego Zoo spans 100 acres and houses more than 3,500 animals from 650 species. It pioneered open-air, cageless exhibits, creating naturalistic habitats that closely resemble the animals’ native environments. Highlights include the Polar Bear Plunge, Elephant Odyssey, and Lost Forest. The zoo plays a key role in conservation and breeding programs, particularly for endangered species such as the giant panda and California condor.
Location: 2920 Zoo Dr, San Diego, CA 92101, USA
Nearest Airport: San Diego International Airport
Entry Fees: USD 76 / ₹6,575
Timings: 9 AM – 7 AM
6. Beijing Zoo, China
Photo: Carla.antonini / Wikimedia Commons
Established in 1906, the Beijing Zoo covers 220 acres and is one of the oldest and largest zoos in China. It is home to more than 14,500 animals across 950 species, including China’s iconic giant pandas, South China tigers, and golden snub-nosed monkeys. The zoo blends traditional Chinese gardens with modern enclosures, providing a scenic and relaxing atmosphere for visitors.
Location: 137 Xizhimen Outer St, Xicheng, Beijing, China
Nearest Airport: Beijing Capital International Airport
Entry Fees: CNY 15 / ₹179
Timings: 7:30 AM – 6 AM
7. London Zoo, UK
Photo: Steph Laing / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Opened in 1828, London Zoo is the world’s oldest scientific zoo and is home to over 20,000 animals from 650 species. Situated in Regent’s Park, the zoo offers famous attractions such as the Land of the Lions, Gorilla Kingdom, and Penguin Beach. It actively contributes to global conservation efforts, working to protect endangered species through breeding and habitat preservation.
Location: Regent’s Park, London NW1 4RY, UK
Nearest Airport: London Heathrow Airport
Entry Fees: £29-36 / ₹3259-4045
Timings: 10 AM – 5 AM
8. Berlin Zoological Garden, Germany
Photo: Jean-Pierre Dalbéra / Wikimedia Commons
Founded in 1844, the Berlin Zoological Garden is Germany’s oldest and most famous zoo. Home to nearly 20,000 animals across 1,400 species, it has one of the most diverse animal collections in the world. People know the zoo for its successful breeding programs and state-of-the-art enclosures. Visitors can explore the modern panda habitat and the famous aquarium, which houses a vast array of marine life.
Location: Hardenbergplatz 8, 10787 Berlin, Germany
Nearest Airport: Berlin Brandenburg Airport
Entry Fees: €24-37 / ₹2268 – 3496
Timings: 9 AM – 6:30 PM
9. Chester Zoo, UK
Photo: Gareth James / Wikimedia Commons
Spanning 125 acres in Cheshire, Chester Zoo is the UK’s largest and most popular zoo. It houses over 35,000 animals across 500 species, including rare and endangered creatures such as the Sumatran tiger and Andean bear. The zoo is actively involved in global conservation initiatives, supporting breeding programs and habitat restoration projects. Attractions such as the Islands exhibit and the Tropical Realm provide immersive experiences for visitors.
Location: Upton-by-Chester, Chester CH2 1EU, UK
Nearest Airport: Manchester Airport
Entry Fees: £29 / ₹2750
Timings: 10 AM – 6 AM
10. Arignar Anna Zoological Park, India
Photo: Nandhiniraji / Wikimedia Commons
Located in Chennai, Arignar Anna Zoological Park covers 1,265 acres, making it one of the largest zoos in Asia. Home to over 2,500 animals from 170 species, the zoo features large enclosures that mimic natural habitats. Conservation and rehabilitation are central to its mission, with breeding programs for endangered species such as the lion-tailed macaque. Visitors can explore the safari park, butterfly house, and reptile enclosure.
Location: Grand Southern Trunk Rd, Vandalur, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600048, India
Nearest Airport: Chennai International Airport
Entry Fees: ₹200
Timings: 9 AM – 5 AM
Visiting these top 10 zoos in the world offers a unique opportunity to witness incredible wildlife while supporting conservation efforts. Each of these zoos provides immersive experiences, educational programs, and unforgettable encounters with rare species. Plan a trip with TripXL and embark on an adventure that combines learning, excitement, and appreciation for the animal kingdom. Contact us now to get started!
Cover Photo: Marek Śliwecki / Wikimedia Commons
