Seoul Zoo (solo trip)
How Solo-Friendly is Seoul Zoo?
What makes it 84% Solo-Friendly: Solo visitors can cheaply see 3,000 animals, hike quiet forest paths and ride the sky lift, but limited English signs and the vast grounds demand extra navigation effort.
Positives:
- Affordable Admission: At ₩5,000 per adult, entry fits most solo budgets
- Self-Guided Exploration: Free hiking loops let you control pace and route
- Year-Round Greenhouse: Indoor plant displays offer shelter in any weather
Challenges:
- Large Grounds: Be prepared to walk several kilometers; a light backpack helps
- Limited English Signage: Download the English map PDF before you visit
- Long Distances Between Zones: Use lockers or a light pack to carry only essentials
What is Seoul Zoo?
- A zoological park spanning 128 hectares within the Seoul Grand Park complex, serving as the largest zoo in South Korea
- Home to over 3,000 animals representing more than 330 species from continents including Asia, Africa and the Americas
- Incorporating botanical zones of over 900 plant species, seamlessly blending animal habitats with forested landscapes and themed gardens
What is so special about Seoul Zoo for solo trip?
- See 3,000+ animals and rare apes at Ape Pavilion
- Hike free 4.5 km zoo trail and 7 km forest path without extra fees
- Capture 900+ plant species in a climate-controlled greenhouse
- Arrive early to enjoy active animals and fewer crowds
- Budget-friendly entry and self-guided nature exploration
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Enough time to explore main exhibits, hike trails, and visit the greenhouse without rushing
Solo-Friendly Activities in Seoul Zoo
Early Morning Entry:
Arrive at opening (09:00) to see active animals and avoid crowds
Tip: Buy your ticket online the night before to skip the booth line
Ape Pavilion & Carnivore Enclosure:
Watch gorillas, tigers, and lions in spacious habitats
Tip: Visit right after feeding times (10:30, 14:00) for best animal activity
Zoo Trail Hike:
Walk the free 4.5 km loop around the zoo perimeter under shaded trees
Tip: Start at the main entrance and loop clockwise; carry water and snacks
Forest Trail Hike:
Explore a 7 km forest-bathing path behind the Australian Pavilion
Tip: Download the trail map in advance and wear sturdy shoes
Greenhouse Botanical Garden:
Photograph 900+ plant species in a climate-controlled greenhouse
Tip: Bring a macro lens or smartphone lens attachment for close-up shots
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Seoul Zoo
- Buy Tickets Online: Secure your zoo ticket on the official site to skip queues
- Download Official Map: Use the English PDF map for clear trail and exhibit locations
- Pack Light: Carry water, snacks, and a phone charger; lockers are near the entrance
Reviews of Seoul Zoo
VintVoo20
The zoo is huge. We ride the overhead cable train twice to go from end-to-end, but it was so enjoyable that I get to see enclosed animals from above! Definitely my go-to again in the future!
Eleonora Kowalska
If you have the option, come early and on a workday day. Else, you would be in a constant danger of being mowed over with strollers and wagons, and the whole place would become a minefield of kids just running around. Buy tickets in advance, not only for the zoo entry but also for any of the rides you wish to take. It will save you time. Just don't forget to exchange your voucher (or QR code) at t...
Michael Ong
Probably the most picturesque zoo I’ve ever visited with an impressive range of animals set in an expansive natural-looking environment. Getting to the zoo proper is a highlight in itself as a sky lift takes you over a river and treats you to a majestic view of the mountains. Wear your tracking shoes as the zoo is set on a mountain which means lots of uphill/downhill walking which is not exactly m...
Binabang Ventures
There are 2 main parks in Seoul Grand Park; ie Seoul Zoo and Seoulland. Seoulland is a theme park. Recommended place to bring your kids when visiting Seoul. We took Sky Lift Line 1 to entrance of Seoul Zoo. Bought ticket to Seoul Zoo after we came down from Sky Lift Line 1. No instructions on where to buy Seoul Zoo tickets, so we need to ask around. Anyway, we enjoy our time there. There are resta...
Brandon Montang
Amazing zoo. They had what looked like a storm hit before my visit, but they were working hard to open some of the exhibits back up. They have an amazing large cat sanctuary and the red pandas are fun to watch. The paths are wide enough even with large crowds, it feels open.
When is the best time to visit Seoul Zoo (Seoul, South Korea)?
Spring: picnic under cherry blossoms by the lake in early April. Late May–June: stroll the rose garden at the Seoul Rose Festival. Summer: use forest trails for shade. Fall: enjoy foliage in Forest Park. Year-round: greenhouse indoor warmth on cold or rainy days.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Adult zoo ticket | KRW 5,000 |
| Greenhouse ticket | KRW 2,000 |
| Subway round-trip fare | KRW 2,700 |
| Total Estimated | KRW 9,700 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Seoul Zoo
Address: 102 Daegongwongwangjang-ro, Gwacheon-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
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About Seoul Zoo
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+82 2-500-7338Explore Popular Things to Do
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