Where the wild meets the wonder, Bali Zoo is a sanctuary of discovery for all ages.
Bali Zoo: A Family-Friendly Wildlife Experience in Bali
Located in Gianyar, just 20 minutes from Ubud, Bali Zoo offers a unique opportunity to experience wildlife in a lush, tropical environment. As Bali’s first and only zoo, it has become a popular destination for both families and animal enthusiasts. Spread across 22 acres, the zoo is home to over 500 animals from Indonesia and around the world, with a focus on conservation, education, and interactive experiences that allow visitors to get closer to the animals than ever before.
Bali Zoo’s beautifully landscaped grounds provide a naturalistic habitat for the animals, and visitors can enjoy a range of activities, from day safaris to night tours. The zoo emphasizes animal welfare, conservation efforts, and sustainability, making it an ethical and educational choice for those looking to explore Bali’s wildlife offerings.
A Journey Through Bali Zoo’s Wildlife
Bali Zoo features a diverse array of animals, including native Indonesian species such as Sumatran tigers, orangutans, sun bears, and Bali starlings, as well as exotic animals from other parts of the world like African lions, zebras, and kangaroos.
One of the zoo’s highlights is the tropical aviary, where visitors can walk through and observe a variety of colorful bird species in a natural setting. Another popular attraction is the primate exhibit, which houses species such as gibbons, lemurs, and the endangered orangutans. The zoo also features a large reptile section with crocodiles, pythons, and Komodo dragons.
For families with young children, the petting zoo is a big hit, offering an interactive experience where kids can feed and touch animals such as goats, deer, and rabbits. There’s also the opportunity to get up close to friendly animals like ponies and guinea pigs, making it a memorable experience for young animal lovers.
TIP: Make sure to visit during the animal feeding times, where you can watch zookeepers interact with the animals and even participate in feeding them yourself.
Unique Animal Experiences at Bali Zoo
What sets Bali Zoo apart from other wildlife parks is its wide range of interactive experiences, allowing visitors to connect with the animals in a safe and meaningful way. Some of the most popular activities include:
Breakfast with Orangutans
One of Bali Zoo’s most famous experiences is Breakfast with Orangutans, where guests can enjoy a delicious buffet breakfast while sitting in a pavilion surrounded by playful orangutans. The experience provides an intimate setting to observe these intelligent primates up close as they interact with each other and the guests.
This experience also includes a guided tour of the zoo after breakfast, giving you a chance to learn more about the zoo’s conservation efforts and meet other animals along the way.
Elephant Mud Fun
For a truly unique adventure, the Elephant Mud Fun experience allows visitors to interact with the zoo’s gentle Sumatran elephants in a playful and educational way. Participants can get into a mud pool with the elephants, help bathe them, and even take a short ride. The activity highlights the zoo’s commitment to ethical animal experiences, as the elephants are not forced to perform tricks or entertain visitors unnaturally.
The elephant trek is another option, where you can ride atop these majestic creatures and enjoy a scenic walk through the zoo’s grounds.
Night at the Zoo
For those looking for something more adventurous, Night at the Zoo offers a unique opportunity to explore the zoo after dark. This guided tour allows you to see nocturnal animals in action, including lions, tigers, and nocturnal primates, while also enjoying a dinner under the stars. The experience includes a traditional Balinese fire dance performance and a BBQ dinner, making it an exciting evening for the whole family.
The night safari is a highlight for many visitors, providing a different perspective on the zoo’s residents, as many animals are more active in the cooler evening hours.
TIP: The night safari is popular, so it’s recommended to book in advance to secure your spot, especially during the high tourist season.
Conservation and Education at Bali Zoo
Bali Zoo is committed to wildlife conservation and education, focusing on raising awareness about endangered species and the importance of protecting their natural habitats. The zoo actively participates in breeding programs for endangered species such as Sumatran tigers and orangutans, and many of the animals at the zoo are part of global conservation efforts.
Education is a key part of the Bali Zoo experience, with dedicated programs for school groups, families, and eco-tourism enthusiasts. The zoo’s staff includes knowledgeable guides who are passionate about wildlife conservation and provide insightful information during tours and animal encounters. For children, the zoo offers various interactive educational programs, teaching them about animal behavior, conservation, and how they can contribute to protecting the environment.
TIP: Make sure to stop by the zoo’s conservation center, where you can learn about the zoo’s breeding programs and ongoing efforts to protect endangered species in the wild.
Dining and Shopping at Bali Zoo
Bali Zoo offers a range of dining options, from casual eateries to sit-down restaurants. The Starbhoga Restaurant, located in the zoo’s central area, offers a mix of Western and Indonesian dishes in a comfortable setting. For a quick snack or light meal, there are various food stalls throughout the zoo serving ice cream, drinks, and snacks.
The zoo’s souvenir shop is a great place to pick up mementos of your visit, offering a variety of locally made handicrafts, plush toys, and Bali Zoo merchandise. A portion of the proceeds from the shop goes towards supporting the zoo’s conservation programs.
Why Visit Bali Zoo?
Bali Zoo offers an immersive wildlife experience that is perfect for families, animal lovers, and those looking to learn more about conservation efforts in Indonesia. Unlike larger, more commercialized zoos, Bali Zoo prides itself on creating intimate, interactive experiences that allow visitors to connect with the animals while also learning about the importance of wildlife protection.
With its range of activities, from up-close encounters with orangutans to nighttime safaris, Bali Zoo offers something for everyone, whether you’re visiting with kids, as a couple, or even solo. The zoo’s commitment to ethical animal treatment, conservation, and education makes it an ideal destination for a fun and meaningful day out.
A Memorable Wildlife Adventure
Whether you’re feeding elephants, having breakfast with orangutans, or exploring the zoo at night, Bali Zoo provides a unique and unforgettable wildlife experience in a beautiful tropical setting. Its focus on conservation, combined with interactive and educational experiences, makes it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Bali.
