Saigon Zoo & Botanical Garden (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Saigon Zoo & Botanical Garden?
What makes it 92% Kids-Friendly: Playgrounds, petting goats, splash zone and 20+ gentle rides create an all-day program for ages 3-12; low fees aid budgets, though a few enclosures smell and look worn.
Positives:
- Stroller-Friendly Paths: Most walkways are paved and level for strollers and small legs.
- Ample Rest Areas: Benches and shaded lawns are available for snacks and breaks.
- On-Site Snacks: Vendors sell cold drinks and simple snacks near the playground and entrance.
Challenges:
- Midday Heat: Temperatures can exceed 35 °C—carry water and seek shade in the afternoon.
- Extra Ride Costs: Most rides and animal feeds have separate fees; budget accordingly.
- Crowded Weekends: Popular shows and rides fill up fast; lines form before performance times.
What is Saigon Zoo & Botanical Garden?
- A landmark zoological and botanical complex founded in 1865, ranking among Southeast Asia’s oldest public gardens and animal parks
- A 20-hectare landscape of curated tropical flora, featuring century-old banyan, orchid and fern collections under a canopy of mature shade trees
- A diversified animal reserve home to over 200 species, from African giraffes and camels to native Asian elephants, crocodiles and myriad bird species
What is so special about Saigon Zoo & Botanical Garden for with kids?
- Interactive petting area with goats and sheep
- Mini train and arcade rides for varied age fun
- Shaded botanical paths with picnic spots
- Free weekend magic and feeding shows
- Easy stroller access and rest areas
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: A 2-3 hour visit lets your family see key exhibits, enjoy play areas and complete short rides without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Saigon Zoo & Botanical Garden
Children’s Playground & Petting Area:
Let kids feed goats, sheep and play on slides and climbers in a safe fenced area.
Tip: Buy animal feed (5,000-10,000 VND) at the entrance and keep younger kids within arm’s reach.
Mini Train Ride:
Ride the vintage tram around shaded paths for an overview of the zoo.
Tip: Board at the Lê Duẩn gate; rides cost 20,000 VND per person.
Arcade & Amusement Rides:
Enjoy bumper cars, merry-go-round and gentle roller coasters in the park’s amusement zone.
Tip: Single rides cost 10,000-40,000 VND—set a budget to avoid surprises.
Botanical Garden Stroll:
Walk under century-old banyan and mango trees for shade and calm.
Tip: Plan a snack break on the grassy lawns or benches near the Orchid Garden.
Animal Shows & Feeding Demos:
Catch free magic acts and animal feeding demos at the central stage on weekends.
Tip: Arrive 10 minutes early to get front-row spots; shows run at 10 AM and 4 PM on Sat & Sun.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Saigon Zoo & Botanical Garden
- Visit Early: Arrive at opening (8 AM) to beat crowds and cooler weather.
- Buy Feed in Bulk: Purchase multiple feed packs together to save time and avoid repeated queues.
- Use Tram for Kids: Take the train when little ones tire from walking to cover more ground.
Reviews of Saigon Zoo & Botanical Garden
Chamroeun Sek
There are many kinds of animals in this zoo, and the entrance fee is also reasonable. In particular, there are French baboons, crocodiles, giant pandas, and many other species that we have never seen in person. You can see them on this phone. I spent an hour with my family to enjoy the animals, but I still haven't seen everything. You can spend more than an hour or half a day in this zoo to see al...
Real Walk TV
The entrance to the Saigon Zoo is very affordable, making it a nice option for a casual outing. The place has a really positive and lively atmosphere, filled with families, kids, and locals enjoying their day. It's quite a large area, so walking through it can take some time-especially under the hot weather-but it's worth it if you take your time and explore different sections. My favorite part w...
siva jeyan
Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens is one of the most beautiful and peaceful places to visit in Ho Chi Minh City. I really enjoyed my time here. The area is full of green trees, colorful flowers, and many different kinds of animals. It’s a very nice place for walking, relaxing, and taking good photos. The garden is clean and well organized, and the staff take care of the area properly. The zoo has ...
Moetz
It’s been so long since the last time I visited this place, don’t remember exactly but this time when came back felt nostalgic as I revisited our generation childhood place. Families, friends, someone would like to spend splendid time alone also great choice to be here. Surrounded by the green, animals,…we’ll feel much better. I hope the zoo always there to be able to see how fast development of t...
ausnuthouse
It was a lovely overcast day, warm but not too hot. Most creatures were happy putting on a bit of a display. There were several school groups and several tourist, completely relaxed strolling through the zoo. Some enclosures were closed for maintenance or upgrade. We had a great time on the rides; the roller coaster is perfect for that little adrenaline kick you might need.
When is the best time to visit Saigon Zoo & Botanical Garden (Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam)?
Ho Chi Minh City is hot year-round. Go early or late to avoid midday heat. In rainy season (Jun–Oct) carry a light raincoat or poncho.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Adult ticket (per person) | VND 60,000 |
| Child ticket (per person) | VND 40,000 |
| Mini train ride (per person) | VND 20,000 |
| Animal feed pack (5,000-10,000 VND) | VND 10,000 |
| Amusement ride (avg per person) | VND 20,000 |
| Total Estimated | VND 380,000 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Saigon Zoo & Botanical Garden
Address: 2 Nguyễn Bỉnh Khiêm, Phường Sài Gòn, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh 700000, Vietnam
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About Saigon Zoo & Botanical Garden
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
+84 28 3829 1425Explore Popular Things to Do
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