ThailandLover is an independent curator of Thailand. This hub lists animal attractions from the ThailandLover directory and links each one to the existing province or place page where that page exists. It is not a booking site. Status, hours and tickets can change; confirm them with the operator. Closed, seasonal and under-development sites stay in the directory.
How to read this directory
Not every animal attraction is a zoo
ThailandLover keeps this page as a directory of animal attractions, not a ranking and not a single list of zoos. A traditional zoo, an open zoo, a safari park, a night safari, a bird park, an aquarium, an elephant camp, a wildlife sanctuary and a rescue centre are different kinds of places. Travellers should read the type label before planning a visit.
The Zoological Park Organization of Thailand (ZPO) operates the country’s main public zoos, including Khao Kheow Open Zoo, Chiang Mai Zoo, Nakhon Ratchasima Zoo, Songkhla Zoo, Khon Kaen Zoo and Ubon Ratchathani Zoo. Dusit Zoo in Bangkok closed in 2018; a new national zoo is under construction in Pathum Thani. Separate from those public zoos are commercial safari parks, aquariums, bird parks, elephant facilities and protected wildlife sanctuaries.
Hours, tickets and operating days change. This directory records status and, where an official source was checked, a dated snapshot. Confirm current conditions on the attraction’s own website before you go. Places that are closed or still being built stay listed so the record is not lost.
Zoos
Traditional zoological parks with multiple species in managed habitats, usually walked on foot. In this directory the ZPO city zoos sit here unless they are specifically an open zoo.
Open Zoos
Large outdoor zoological parks where animals have bigger habitat areas and visitors may travel by tram, shuttle or car. Khao Kheow Open Zoo is the main public example.
Safari Parks
Parks organised around a vehicle or safari-style route through larger enclosures, sometimes paired with a walk-through marine or show zone. Safari World in Bangkok is a safari park with a marine park, not a conventional city zoo.
Night Safaris
Attractions designed around evening or night animal viewing, usually by tram. Chiang Mai Night Safari is the primary public example. A zoo that sometimes opens after dark is not automatically a night safari.
Bird Parks
Parks whose main purpose is birds — walk-through aviaries and bird collections. A zoo with a bird section is still a zoo.
Aquariums & Marine Life
Indoor marine or freshwater attractions. An aquarium is not a zoo, even when it sits in the same travel day. Chiang Mai Zoo’s Zooquarium is part of that zoo; SEA LIFE Bangkok and Aquaria Phuket are separate aquarium attractions.
Elephant Parks, Camps & Conservation Centres
Elephant-focused sites range from conservation centres and rescue facilities to commercial camps that may offer shows or riding. This directory names the type without treating riding as a recommended activity. See also ThailandLover’s elephant-riding guide.
Wildlife Sanctuaries
Protected forests managed for wildlife, not commercial zoos. Access may be limited, timed, or closed on some trails. Huai Kha Khaeng is a UNESCO-listed sanctuary, not a day-ticket animal park.
Wildlife Rescue & Rehabilitation
Facilities whose stated work is rescue, rehabilitation, education or sanctuary care. Visits are often by appointment. They should not be described as zoos unless they also operate as one.
Quick discovery
Filter the directory
Filters apply together. A place can have more than one type. Tags are not ratings.
Start here
Featured wildlife attractions
A first look at places already in the ThailandLover directory. This is not a ranking. Closed and under-development sites stay listed with their status.
Khao Kheow Open Zooสวนสัตว์เปิดเขาเขียว
Si Racha, Chon Buriศรีราชา ชลบุรี
A ZPO open zoo in Si Racha, Chon Buri — large outdoor habitats rather than a compact city zoo, and a practical wildlife day from Pattaya or Bangkok.
- Hours
- Confirm opening hours on the official zoo website
- Tickets
- Check the official website for current ticket prices
- Last verified
- 2026-10-27
Chiang Mai Zooสวนสัตว์เชียงใหม่
Mueang Chiang Maiเมืองเชียงใหม่
A ZPO hillside zoo in Mueang Chiang Mai, with a zooquarium on the same site. The aquarium is part of the zoo, not a separate marine park.
- Hours
- Confirm opening hours on the official zoo website
- Tickets
- Check the official website for current ticket prices
- Last verified
- 2026-10-27
Nakhon Ratchasima Zooสวนสัตว์นครราชสีมา
Mueang Nakhon Ratchasimaเมืองนครราชสีมา
The ZPO zoo for Nakhon Ratchasima (Korat) — a city zoological park used as a wildlife day when travellers are not going into Khao Yai National Park.
- Hours
- Confirm opening hours with the zoo
- Tickets
- Check the official website for current ticket prices
- Last verified
- 2026-10-27
Songkhla Zooสวนสัตว์สงขลา
Songkhlaสงขลา
The ZPO zoo for Songkhla — the main public zoological park in the lower south.
- Hours
- Confirm opening hours with the zoo
- Tickets
- Check the official website for current ticket prices
- Last verified
- 2026-10-27
Safari Worldซาฟารีเวิลด์
Min Buri, Bangkokมีนบุรี กรุงเทพฯ
A commercial safari park in Min Buri, Bangkok, with a safari zone and a marine park. It is a safari park, not a ZPO zoo.
- Hours
- Listed on the official site as Tuesday–Friday 09:00–16:00 and Saturday–Sunday 09:00–17:00 — confirm Monday and holidays with the park
- Tickets
- Check the official website for current ticket prices
- Last verified
- 2026-10-27
Chiang Mai Night Safariเชียงใหม่ไนท์ซาฟารี
Hang Dong, Chiang Maiหางดง เชียงใหม่
A public-organization nature park in Hang Dong, Chiang Mai, opened in 2006, with night and day safari tram routes. It is a night safari / wildlife park, not Chiang Mai Zoo.
- Hours
- Confirm tram times on the official website
- Tickets
- Check the official website for current ticket prices
- Last verified
- 2026-10-27
Safari Park Kanchanaburiซาฟารีปาร์ค กาญจนบุรี
Bo Phloi, Kanchanaburiบ่อพลอย กาญจนบุรี
An open safari park in Nong Kum, Bo Phloi, Kanchanaburi, with drive-through and walk-through animal areas. It is a commercial safari / open zoo, not a ZPO zoo. Some activities involve close animal contact — check current rules with the park.
- Hours
- Listed by the park and local listings as daily 09:00–17:00 — confirm before you go
- Tickets
- Check the official website for current ticket prices
- Last verified
- 2026-10-27
Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailandมูลนิธิเพื่อนสัตว์ป่า
Tha Yang, Phetchaburiท่ายาง เพชรบุรี
A wildlife rescue centre in Tha Yang, Phetchaburi. Day visits are by appointment or booked tour only — not a walk-in zoo. The organisation’s own site describes rescue, rehabilitation and education work.
- Hours
- Open for booked visits seven days a week; walk-ins are not accepted
- Tickets
- Booked half-day and full-day visits — check wfft.org for current prices
- Last verified
- 2026-10-27
Public zoological parks
Major zoos in Thailand
In this directory, “major zoo” means a public zoological park operated by the Zoological Park Organization of Thailand — not a commercial safari, bird park or aquarium. Dusit Zoo is kept under historical listings because it has closed. For the wider place layer, continue into Places & Attractions.
Khao Kheow Open Zooสวนสัตว์เปิดเขาเขียว
Si Racha, Chon Buriศรีราชา ชลบุรี
A ZPO open zoo in Si Racha, Chon Buri — large outdoor habitats rather than a compact city zoo, and a practical wildlife day from Pattaya or Bangkok.
- Hours
- Confirm opening hours on the official zoo website
- Tickets
- Check the official website for current ticket prices
- Last verified
- 2026-10-27
Chiang Mai Zooสวนสัตว์เชียงใหม่
Mueang Chiang Maiเมืองเชียงใหม่
A ZPO hillside zoo in Mueang Chiang Mai, with a zooquarium on the same site. The aquarium is part of the zoo, not a separate marine park.
- Hours
- Confirm opening hours on the official zoo website
- Tickets
- Check the official website for current ticket prices
- Last verified
- 2026-10-27
Nakhon Ratchasima Zooสวนสัตว์นครราชสีมา
Mueang Nakhon Ratchasimaเมืองนครราชสีมา
The ZPO zoo for Nakhon Ratchasima (Korat) — a city zoological park used as a wildlife day when travellers are not going into Khao Yai National Park.
- Hours
- Confirm opening hours with the zoo
- Tickets
- Check the official website for current ticket prices
- Last verified
- 2026-10-27
Songkhla Zooสวนสัตว์สงขลา
Songkhlaสงขลา
The ZPO zoo for Songkhla — the main public zoological park in the lower south.
- Hours
- Confirm opening hours with the zoo
- Tickets
- Check the official website for current ticket prices
- Last verified
- 2026-10-27
Khon Kaen Zooสวนสัตว์ขอนแก่น
Mueang Khon Kaenเมืองขอนแก่น
The ZPO zoo in Mueang Khon Kaen — a shaded city zoological park for a family half-day in Isaan.
- Hours
- Confirm opening hours with the zoo
- Tickets
- Check the official website for current ticket prices
- Last verified
- 2026-10-27
Ubon Ratchathani Zooสวนสัตว์อุบลราชธานี
Ubon Ratchathaniอุบลราชธานี
The ZPO zoo for Ubon Ratchathani — the public zoological park for the far northeast.
- Hours
- Confirm opening hours with the zoo
- Tickets
- Check the official website for current ticket prices
- Last verified
- 2026-10-27
Vehicle routes & open habitats
Safari parks in Thailand
A safari park is organised around a vehicle or open-habitat route. It is not the same as a conventional walk-through zoo. A place is not labelled safari park merely because it keeps animals.
Safari Worldซาฟารีเวิลด์
Min Buri, Bangkokมีนบุรี กรุงเทพฯ
A commercial safari park in Min Buri, Bangkok, with a safari zone and a marine park. It is a safari park, not a ZPO zoo.
- Hours
- Listed on the official site as Tuesday–Friday 09:00–16:00 and Saturday–Sunday 09:00–17:00 — confirm Monday and holidays with the park
- Tickets
- Check the official website for current ticket prices
- Last verified
- 2026-10-27
Safari Park Kanchanaburiซาฟารีปาร์ค กาญจนบุรี
Bo Phloi, Kanchanaburiบ่อพลอย กาญจนบุรี
An open safari park in Nong Kum, Bo Phloi, Kanchanaburi, with drive-through and walk-through animal areas. It is a commercial safari / open zoo, not a ZPO zoo. Some activities involve close animal contact — check current rules with the park.
- Hours
- Listed by the park and local listings as daily 09:00–17:00 — confirm before you go
- Tickets
- Check the official website for current ticket prices
- Last verified
- 2026-10-27
Sriayuthaya Lion Parkศรีอยุธยา ไลอ้อน ปาร์ค
Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthayaพระนครศรีอยุธยา
A family safari-style animal park in Ayutthaya with big cats, smaller animals and photo zones. Confirm feeding times and current status on the day. Already listed on the Ayutthaya province page.
- Hours
- Hours vary — check official source
- Tickets
- Check official website
- Last verified
- 2026-10-27
Hua Hin Safari & Adventure Parkหัวหินซาฟารี แอนด์ แอดเวนเจอร์พาร์ค
Hua Hin, Prachuap Khiri Khanหัวหิน ประจวบคีรีขันธ์
A commercial safari and animal park in Hua Hin. Public listings describe animal shows and close-contact activities, including elephant riding. This directory records the park as an animal / safari attraction; it does not recommend riding or handling.
- Hours
- Hours vary — check official source
- Tickets
- Check official website
- Last verified
- 2026-10-27
After dark
Night safaris in Thailand
Only attractions that actually operate as night-safari experiences are listed here. Chiang Mai Night Safari is the primary public example. A zoo that sometimes opens in the evening is not automatically a night safari.
Commercial & family parks
Wildlife parks & animal parks
These listings are commercial or family-oriented animal attractions, mini zoos and farms. They are not traditional ZPO zoos. Confirm current status; some sites offer close-contact activities that not every traveller will want.
Sriayuthaya Lion Parkศรีอยุธยา ไลอ้อน ปาร์ค
Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthayaพระนครศรีอยุธยา
A family safari-style animal park in Ayutthaya with big cats, smaller animals and photo zones. Confirm feeding times and current status on the day. Already listed on the Ayutthaya province page.
- Hours
- Hours vary — check official source
- Tickets
- Check official website
- Last verified
- 2026-10-27
Hua Hin Safari & Adventure Parkหัวหินซาฟารี แอนด์ แอดเวนเจอร์พาร์ค
Hua Hin, Prachuap Khiri Khanหัวหิน ประจวบคีรีขันธ์
A commercial safari and animal park in Hua Hin. Public listings describe animal shows and close-contact activities, including elephant riding. This directory records the park as an animal / safari attraction; it does not recommend riding or handling.
- Hours
- Hours vary — check official source
- Tickets
- Check official website
- Last verified
- 2026-10-27
Bonanza Exotic Parkโบนันซ่า เอ็กโซติก พาร์ค
Khao Yai, Nakhon Ratchasimaเขาใหญ่ นครราชสีมา
An animal park associated with The Bonanza Khao Yai. It is a commercial exotic-animal attraction, not a ZPO zoo and not Khao Yai National Park.
- Hours
- Hours vary — check official source
- Tickets
- Check official website
- Last verified
- 2026-10-27
Lion Land Phuketไลอ้อนแลนด์ ภูเก็ต
Chalong, Phuketฉลอง ภูเก็ต
A commercial lion park in Chalong, Phuket. The official site advertises close lion encounters, including young lions. Classify it as an animal park, not a zoo. Travellers who want to avoid handling wildlife should choose another listing.
- Hours
- Official site lists daily 09:00–18:00 — confirm before you go
- Tickets
- Check the official website for current ticket prices
- Last verified
- 2026-10-27
Pata Zooสวนสัตว์พาต้า
Pata Pinklao, Bangkokพาต้าปิ่นเกล้า กรุงเทพฯ
A rooftop mini zoo at Pata Pinklao department store. It is still operating, with limited days reported in 2026. It is not a ZPO zoo. Animal-welfare campaigners have long asked for remaining animals, including the gorilla Bua Noi, to be moved. ThailandLover lists it for completeness, not as a recommended highlight.
- Hours
- Reports in 2026 list Friday–Sunday and public holidays — confirm with the zoo
- Tickets
- Check official source
- Last verified
- 2026-10-27
Lopburi Zooสวนสัตว์ลพบุรี
Mueang Lopburiเมืองลพบุรี
A small city zoo in Mueang Lopburi, also known locally as Sa Kaeo Zoo. It is a mini zoo, not a ZPO major zoo. Already listed on the Lopburi province page.
- Hours
- Province listing notes about 08:00–18:00 — confirm at the gate
- Tickets
- Check official source
- Last verified
- 2026-10-27
Khonkaen Exotic Petsขอนแก่นเอ็กโซติกเพ็ท
Khon Kaenขอนแก่น
A private animal park in Khon Kaen, already on the province page. Hours move; confirm before you drive out. It is not the ZPO Khon Kaen Zoo.
- Hours
- Hours vary — check official source
- Tickets
- Check official source
- Last verified
- 2026-10-27
Monster Aquarium Pattayaมอนสเตอร์ อควาเรียม พัทยา
Nong Pla Lai, Bang Lamung, Chon Buriหนองปลาไหล บางละมุง ชลบุรี
An indoor aquarium and exotic-animal attraction in Nong Pla Lai, Bang Lamung. It is not Underwater World Pattaya. Booking platforms describe mixed aquatic and terrestrial zones; confirm current status with the operator. Not a ZPO zoo.
- Hours
- Hours vary — check official source
- Tickets
- Check official website
- Last verified
- 2026-10-27
- Verification
- Needs verification
Samut Prakan Crocodile Farm and Zooฟาร์มจระเข้และสวนสัตว์สมุทรปราการ
Mueang Samut Prakanเมืองสมุทรปราการ
A crocodile farm and animal park in Tai Ban, Samut Prakan, reopened on 1 April 2024 after a pandemic closure. It is an animal farm / zoo-style park, not a ZPO zoo. Shows may run; read the board on the day. Already listed on the Samut Prakan province page.
- Hours
- Province listing: daily about 08:00–18:00, tickets until about 17:00 — confirm at the gate
- Tickets
- Check official source; the province page records a 2026 snapshot
- Last verified
- 2026-10-27
Samphran Elephant Ground & Zooลานแสดงช้างและสวนสัตว์สามพราน
Sam Phran, Nakhon Pathomสามพราน นครปฐม
An elephant ground and zoo in Sam Phran, Nakhon Pathom, separate from Suan Sampran (the former Rose Garden). The operator’s site advertises elephant shows, a crocodile show and elephant riding. This directory records those as offered activities; it does not present riding as a recommended experience.
- Hours
- Official site lists daily 08:30–17:30
- Tickets
- Check the official website for current ticket prices
- Last verified
- 2026-10-27
Aviaries
Bird parks in Thailand
Parks whose main purpose is birds. A general zoo with a bird section is not classified as a bird park.
Chai Nat Bird Parkสวนนกชัยนาท
Mueang Chai Natเมืองชัยนาท
A provincial bird park in Mueang Chai Nat, opened in 1983 (B.E. 2526) and run with Chai Nat Provincial Administrative Organization. It is a bird park, not a general zoo.
- Hours
- Hours vary — check official source
- Tickets
- Official PAO page lists Thai adults 60 baht / children 25 baht and foreign adults 150 baht / children 75 baht — confirm before you go
- Last verified
- 2026-10-27
Phuket Bird Parkภูเก็ตเบิร์ดพาร์ค
Wichit, Phuketวิชิต ภูเก็ต
A privately owned bird park in Wichit, near Wat Chalong. Facebook remains the practical contact if the website is offline. It is a bird park, not Phuket’s aquarium.
- Hours
- Local listings give daily 10:00–17:00 — confirm on the park’s Facebook page
- Tickets
- Check official source
- Last verified
- 2026-10-27
Marine life
Aquariums & marine life
Aquariums belong in this wildlife directory but they are not zoos. Chiang Mai Zoo’s zooquarium stays with that zoo; the listings below are standalone marine attractions.
SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean Worldซีไลฟ์ แบงค็อก โอเชียน เวิลด์
Siam Paragon, Bangkokสยามพารากอน กรุงเทพฯ
An aquarium under Siam Paragon. It is a marine-life attraction, not a zoo.
- Hours
- Official site: daily 10:00–19:00, last admission 18:00
- Tickets
- Check the official website for current ticket prices
- Last verified
- 2026-10-27
Aquaria Phuketอควาเรีย ภูเก็ต
Central Phuket Florestaเซ็นทรัล ภูเก็ต ฟลอเรสต้า
An aquarium on B1 of Central Phuket Floresta. It is not Phuket Aquarium (the government marine station) and it is not a zoo.
- Hours
- Official site: daily 10:30–19:00, last admission 18:00
- Tickets
- Check the official website for current ticket prices
- Last verified
- 2026-10-27
Phuket Aquariumสถานแสดงพันธุ์สัตว์น้ำภูเก็ต
Cape Panwa, Phuketแหลมพันวา ภูเก็ต
The government aquarium at Cape Panwa (Phuket Marine Biological Center). It is a public aquarium, not Aquaria Phuket in the shopping mall.
- Hours
- Official site lists 08:30–16:30 daily, including public holidays
- Tickets
- Check the official website for current ticket prices
- Last verified
- 2026-10-27
Underwater World Pattayaอันเดอร์วอเตอร์ เวิลด์ พัทยา
Bang Lamung, Chon Buriบางละมุง ชลบุรี
A walk-through aquarium on Sukhumvit Road in Bang Lamung. It is separate from Monster Aquarium Pattaya. An aquarium, not a zoo.
- Hours
- Official site lists 09:00–18:00
- Tickets
- Check the official website for current ticket prices
- Last verified
- 2026-10-27
Monster Aquarium Pattayaมอนสเตอร์ อควาเรียม พัทยา
Nong Pla Lai, Bang Lamung, Chon Buriหนองปลาไหล บางละมุง ชลบุรี
An indoor aquarium and exotic-animal attraction in Nong Pla Lai, Bang Lamung. It is not Underwater World Pattaya. Booking platforms describe mixed aquatic and terrestrial zones; confirm current status with the operator. Not a ZPO zoo.
- Hours
- Hours vary — check official source
- Tickets
- Check official website
- Last verified
- 2026-10-27
- Verification
- Needs verification
Responsible wording
Elephant experiences in Thailand
Elephant sites in this directory include conservation centres, villages, camps, show grounds and rescue facilities. The type label says what the place is. This page does not recommend riding. For that discussion, see Would You Ride an Elephant?
Samphran Elephant Ground & Zooลานแสดงช้างและสวนสัตว์สามพราน
Sam Phran, Nakhon Pathomสามพราน นครปฐม
An elephant ground and zoo in Sam Phran, Nakhon Pathom, separate from Suan Sampran (the former Rose Garden). The operator’s site advertises elephant shows, a crocodile show and elephant riding. This directory records those as offered activities; it does not present riding as a recommended experience.
- Hours
- Official site lists daily 08:30–17:30
- Tickets
- Check the official website for current ticket prices
- Last verified
- 2026-10-27
Thai Elephant Conservation Centerศูนย์อนุรักษ์ช้างไทย
Hang Chat, Lampangห้างฉัตร ลำปาง
A government elephant conservation centre in Lampang, already listed on the Lampang province page. It is a conservation centre, not a city zoo. Confirm current visitor programmes with the centre.
- Hours
- Hours vary — check official source
- Tickets
- Check official website
- Last verified
- 2026-10-27
Elephant Kingdom (Surin)คชอาณาจักร จังหวัดสุรินทร์
Surinสุรินทร์
A ZPO elephant project in Surin, listed by the organization alongside its zoos. It is an elephant conservation / exhibition project, not a conventional multi-species city zoo. Pair geographically with Ban Ta Klang; they are related, not the same place.
- Hours
- Hours vary — check official source
- Tickets
- Check official website
- Last verified
- 2026-10-27
Ban Ta Klang Elephant Villageบ้านตากลาง
Tha Tum, Surinท่าตูม สุรินทร์
The Kui (Suay) elephant village and study centre in Tha Tum, Surin — a living cultural place, not a zoo. Already listed on the Surin province page.
- Hours
- Hours vary — check official source
- Tickets
- Check official source
- Last verified
- 2026-10-27
Chiang Dao Elephant Training Centreศูนย์ฝึกช้างเชียงดาว
Chiang Dao, Chiang Maiเชียงดาว เชียงใหม่
An elephant camp in Chiang Dao District, already on the Chiang Mai province page. It is an elephant camp, not a sanctuary and not a zoo. Confirm current activities; this directory does not treat camp programmes as welfare-certified.
- Hours
- Hours vary — check official source
- Tickets
- Check official source
- Last verified
- 2026-10-27
Protected forest
Wildlife sanctuaries in Thailand
A wildlife sanctuary is not a commercial zoo. Access may be limited, timed, or closed on some trails. Do not plan these as ordinary ticketed animal parks. For national parks, continue into Nature & Parks.
Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuaryเขตรักษาพันธุ์สัตว์ป่าห้วยขาแข้ง
Lan Sak, Uthai Thaniลานสัก อุทัยธานี
A UNESCO World Heritage wildlife sanctuary in Uthai Thani and Tak, not a commercial zoo. DNP announced nature-study access from 10 September 2026 at designated points only; many walking trails remained closed in that notice. Night spotlighting and casual camping are not ordinary tourist activities here. Confirm current access with the sanctuary before you travel.
- Hours
- DNP notice for the 10 September 2026 reopening: enter 08:00–15:00 and leave by 16:30 at designated points — confirm before travel
- Tickets
- Pay personal and vehicle fees at the sanctuary; amounts were not confirmed on the notice
- Last verified
- 2026-10-27
Omkoi Wildlife Sanctuaryเขตรักษาพันธุ์สัตว์ป่าอมก๋อย
Omkoi, Chiang Maiอมก๋อย เชียงใหม่
A large protected forest in Omkoi District, already on the Chiang Mai province page. It is a wildlife sanctuary, not a tourist zoo. Access and facilities are limited; treat it as remote nature, not a day park.
- Hours
- Hours vary — check official source
- Tickets
- Check official source
- Last verified
- 2026-10-27
Rescue & rehabilitation
Wildlife rescue & conservation centres
These facilities focus on rescue, rehabilitation, education or sanctuary care. Visits are often by appointment. They should not be described as zoos unless they also operate as one.
Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailandมูลนิธิเพื่อนสัตว์ป่า
Tha Yang, Phetchaburiท่ายาง เพชรบุรี
A wildlife rescue centre in Tha Yang, Phetchaburi. Day visits are by appointment or booked tour only — not a walk-in zoo. The organisation’s own site describes rescue, rehabilitation and education work.
- Hours
- Open for booked visits seven days a week; walk-ins are not accepted
- Tickets
- Booked half-day and full-day visits — check wfft.org for current prices
- Last verified
- 2026-10-27
Wildlife Rescue Center No. 1สถานีช่วยเหลือสัตว์ป่าที่ 1 นครนายก
Khao Phra, Nakhon Nayokเขาพระ นครนายก
A Department of National Parks wildlife rescue facility in Nakhon Nayok. Public visitor rules were not confirmed from an official DNP page during this update, so hours and tickets stay unmarked. It is a rescue centre, not a zoo.
- Hours
- Hours vary — check official source
- Tickets
- Official website unavailable
- Last verified
- 2026-10-27
- Verification
- Needs verification
Keep the record
Closed, historical and under development
Closed and unbuilt sites stay in the directory. They are not current visitor attractions. Do not plan a trip to Dusit Zoo. The Pathum Thani national zoo is not open.
Dusit Zooสวนสัตว์ดุสิต
Dusit, Bangkokดุสิต กรุงเทพฯ
Bangkok’s former public zoo at Khao Din, closed on 30 September 2018. Animals were moved to other ZPO zoos. It remains in this directory as a historical place, not as an attraction you can visit.
- Last verified
- 2026-10-27
New National Zoo (Khlong 6)สวนสัตว์แห่งใหม่ คลอง 6
Thanyaburi, Pathum Thaniธัญบุรี ปทุมธานี
The ZPO replacement for Dusit Zoo, on royal land at Khlong 6 in Thanyaburi, Pathum Thani. It is under construction and is not open to visitors. Reported opening stages have changed over time; confirm with ZPO rather than treating any year as fixed.
- Last verified
- 2026-10-27
Where to go
Zoos & wildlife attractions by destination
Listings grouped by the destination a traveller usually searches. Each destination heading links to the ThailandLover province guide. Empty groups stay visible so later listings have a home.
Bangkokกรุงเทพฯ
6 attractions listed
Bangkok, Min Buri, Pinklao, Siam, and Pathum Thani day trips.
Chiang Maiเชียงใหม่
4 attractions listed
Chiang Mai city zoo, night safari, and northern elephant facilities.
Pattaya / Chon Buriพัทยา / ชลบุรี
3 attractions listed
Khao Kheow Open Zoo and marine attractions on the eastern gulf.
Phuketภูเก็ต
4 attractions listed
Bird park, aquarium and commercial animal parks on the island.
Kanchanaburiกาญจนบุรี
1 attraction listed
Open safari park country in Bo Phloi.
Ayutthayaอยุธยา
1 attraction listed
A family animal park beside the historic city.
Hua Hinหัวหิน
2 attractions listed
Hua Hin safari-style parks and nearby Phetchaburi rescue visits.
Khao Yai / Nakhon Ratchasimaเขาใหญ่ / นครราชสีมา
2 attractions listed
Korat Zoo and animal parks on the Khao Yai circuit.
Khon Kaenขอนแก่น
2 attractions listed
The ZPO zoo and a smaller private animal park.
Songkhlaสงขลา
1 attraction listed
The ZPO zoo serving the lower south.
Other destinationsปลายทางอื่น
9 attractions listed
Ubon Ratchathani, Surin, Lampang, Chai Nat, Nakhon Pathom, Nakhon Nayok, Uthai Thani and other listings.
- Ubon Ratchathani Zoo (สวนสัตว์อุบลราชธานี)
- Lopburi Zoo (สวนสัตว์ลพบุรี)
- Chai Nat Bird Park (สวนนกชัยนาท)
- Samphran Elephant Ground & Zoo (ลานแสดงช้างและสวนสัตว์สามพราน)
- Thai Elephant Conservation Center (ศูนย์อนุรักษ์ช้างไทย)
- Elephant Kingdom (Surin) (คชอาณาจักร จังหวัดสุรินทร์)
- Ban Ta Klang Elephant Village (บ้านตากลาง)
- Wildlife Rescue Center No. 1 (สถานีช่วยเหลือสัตว์ป่าที่ 1 นครนายก)
- Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuary (เขตรักษาพันธุ์สัตว์ป่าห้วยขาแข้ง)
Different travellers
Good choices for different trips
These groupings are editorial discovery lists, not rankings. “Good choice for families” is not “number one”.
Good choice for families
Family is an experience tag, not a ranking. Larger public zoos and safari parks with straightforward visitor facilities currently carry that tag.
- Khao Kheow Open Zoo (สวนสัตว์เปิดเขาเขียว) · Si Racha, Chon Buri
- Chiang Mai Zoo (สวนสัตว์เชียงใหม่) · Mueang Chiang Mai
- Nakhon Ratchasima Zoo (สวนสัตว์นครราชสีมา) · Mueang Nakhon Ratchasima
- Safari World (ซาฟารีเวิลด์) · Min Buri, Bangkok
- SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World (ซีไลฟ์ แบงค็อก โอเชียน เวิลด์) · Siam Paragon, Bangkok
- Aquaria Phuket (อควาเรีย ภูเก็ต) · Central Phuket Floresta
Good choice for children
Shorter indoor aquariums and public zoos are often easier with young children than remote sanctuaries. Confirm rest, shade and last-admission times with the operator.
- SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World (ซีไลฟ์ แบงค็อก โอเชียน เวิลด์) · Siam Paragon, Bangkok
- Aquaria Phuket (อควาเรีย ภูเก็ต) · Central Phuket Floresta
- Chiang Mai Zoo (สวนสัตว์เชียงใหม่) · Mueang Chiang Mai
- Khon Kaen Zoo (สวนสัตว์ขอนแก่น) · Mueang Khon Kaen
- Chai Nat Bird Park (สวนนกชัยนาท) · Mueang Chai Nat
Safari-style days
These listings operate a vehicle or open-habitat route. They are not ranked against each other.
- Safari World (ซาฟารีเวิลด์) · Min Buri, Bangkok
- Chiang Mai Night Safari (เชียงใหม่ไนท์ซาฟารี) · Hang Dong, Chiang Mai
- Safari Park Kanchanaburi (ซาฟารีปาร์ค กาญจนบุรี) · Bo Phloi, Kanchanaburi
For wildlife enthusiasts
Use this list to compare a public open zoo, a night safari, a rescue visit and a true sanctuary. They are different experiences.
- Khao Kheow Open Zoo (สวนสัตว์เปิดเขาเขียว) · Si Racha, Chon Buri
- Chiang Mai Night Safari (เชียงใหม่ไนท์ซาฟารี) · Hang Dong, Chiang Mai
- Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand (มูลนิธิเพื่อนสัตว์ป่า) · Tha Yang, Phetchaburi
- Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuary (เขตรักษาพันธุ์สัตว์ป่าห้วยขาแข้ง) · Lan Sak, Uthai Thani
For photography
Open habitats and sanctuaries photograph differently from indoor aquariums. No listing here is a “best photo spot” ranking.
- Khao Kheow Open Zoo (สวนสัตว์เปิดเขาเขียว) · Si Racha, Chon Buri
- Chiang Mai Night Safari (เชียงใหม่ไนท์ซาฟารี) · Hang Dong, Chiang Mai
- Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuary (เขตรักษาพันธุ์สัตว์ป่าห้วยขาแข้ง) · Lan Sak, Uthai Thani
- Chai Nat Bird Park (สวนนกชัยนาท) · Mueang Chai Nat
For educational trips
Public ZPO zoos, government aquariums and booked rescue visits are the listings tagged for learning. School groups should still confirm booking rules.
- Chiang Mai Zoo (สวนสัตว์เชียงใหม่) · Mueang Chiang Mai
- Khao Kheow Open Zoo (สวนสัตว์เปิดเขาเขียว) · Si Racha, Chon Buri
- Phuket Aquarium (สถานแสดงพันธุ์สัตว์น้ำภูเก็ต) · Cape Panwa, Phuket
- Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand (มูลนิธิเพื่อนสัตว์ป่า) · Tha Yang, Phetchaburi
- Thai Elephant Conservation Center (ศูนย์อนุรักษ์ช้างไทย) · Hang Chat, Lampang
For conservation and learning
Rescue centres and wildlife sanctuaries belong here. A commercial park that mentions conservation is not automatically listed.
- Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand (มูลนิธิเพื่อนสัตว์ป่า) · Tha Yang, Phetchaburi
- Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuary (เขตรักษาพันธุ์สัตว์ป่าห้วยขาแข้ง) · Lan Sak, Uthai Thani
- Thai Elephant Conservation Center (ศูนย์อนุรักษ์ช้างไทย) · Hang Chat, Lampang
- Elephant Kingdom (Surin) (คชอาณาจักร จังหวัดสุรินทร์) · Surin
Near Bangkok
Day-trip options from the capital, including Pathum Thani’s future zoo (not open) and the closed Dusit Zoo kept as history.
- Safari World (ซาฟารีเวิลด์) · Min Buri, Bangkok
- Khao Kheow Open Zoo (สวนสัตว์เปิดเขาเขียว) · Si Racha, Chon Buri
- SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World (ซีไลฟ์ แบงค็อก โอเชียน เวิลด์) · Siam Paragon, Bangkok
- Samut Prakan Crocodile Farm and Zoo (ฟาร์มจระเข้และสวนสัตว์สมุทรปราการ) · Mueang Samut Prakan
- Dusit Zoo (สวนสัตว์ดุสิต) · Dusit, Bangkok
- New National Zoo (Khlong 6) (สวนสัตว์แห่งใหม่ คลอง 6) · Thanyaburi, Pathum Thani
Northern Thailand
Chiang Mai’s zoo and night safari, Lampang’s elephant conservation centre, and remote Omkoi.
- Chiang Mai Zoo (สวนสัตว์เชียงใหม่) · Mueang Chiang Mai
- Chiang Mai Night Safari (เชียงใหม่ไนท์ซาฟารี) · Hang Dong, Chiang Mai
- Thai Elephant Conservation Center (ศูนย์อนุรักษ์ช้างไทย) · Hang Chat, Lampang
- Omkoi Wildlife Sanctuary (เขตรักษาพันธุ์สัตว์ป่าอมก๋อย) · Omkoi, Chiang Mai
Southern Thailand
Songkhla’s ZPO zoo and Phuket’s bird park and aquariums. Lion Land is listed separately as a commercial animal park.
- Songkhla Zoo (สวนสัตว์สงขลา) · Songkhla
- Phuket Bird Park (ภูเก็ตเบิร์ดพาร์ค) · Wichit, Phuket
- Aquaria Phuket (อควาเรีย ภูเก็ต) · Central Phuket Floresta
- Phuket Aquarium (สถานแสดงพันธุ์สัตว์น้ำภูเก็ต) · Cape Panwa, Phuket
Scan the list
Comparison directory
Every attraction in this hub, including closed, seasonal and under-development sites. Hours and tickets, where shown on cards, are snapshots — confirm them on the operator’s own website. Missing fields stay unmarked rather than invented.
Before you book
Responsible wildlife tourism in Thailand
Animal attractions in Thailand are not one industry with one standard. Public zoos, safari parks, bird parks, aquariums, elephant camps, rescue centres and wildlife sanctuaries ask different things of the animals and of the visitor. ThailandLover does not certify operators and does not accuse a named business without a reliable source.
Before you pay, it is reasonable to look at habitat quality, whether animals are used for entertainment, whether riding, touching or handling is sold, whether breeding or “rescue” claims are independently supported, and whether the visit is actually a conservation activity or a show. If those answers are unclear, choose another listing — or skip the animal stop that day. National parks and true sanctuaries are a different kind of wildlife day; start from Nature & Parks.
Questions
FAQ
Answers use only attractions already in this directory.
What are the best zoos in Thailand?
ThailandLover does not rank zoos. The public zoos operated by the Zoological Park Organization of Thailand currently listed here are Khao Kheow Open Zoo, Chiang Mai Zoo, Nakhon Ratchasima Zoo, Songkhla Zoo, Khon Kaen Zoo and Ubon Ratchathani Zoo. Which one fits a trip depends on where you are going, not on a number-one list.
What are the biggest zoos in Thailand?
This directory does not publish park-size or visitor figures unless an official source is on file. Khao Kheow is listed as an open zoo because of how it is operated, not because ThailandLover has independently measured it as the largest. Treat “biggest” claims on third-party sites with caution.
What is the best zoo near Bangkok?
There is no current ZPO city zoo inside Bangkok: Dusit Zoo closed in 2018 and the Pathum Thani replacement is under development. From Bangkok, travellers often look at Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Chon Buri or Safari World in Min Buri. Safari World is a safari park with a marine park, not a traditional zoo. SEA LIFE Bangkok is an aquarium.
Where is the New National Zoo in Thailand?
ThailandLover lists the New National Zoo (Khlong 6) in Thanyaburi, Pathum Thani — the Zoological Park Organization replacement for Dusit Zoo. It is under development and not open to visitors. Opening stages reported in the press have changed; confirm status with ZPO rather than treating any year as fixed.
Is Dusit Zoo still open?
No. Dusit Zoo in Bangkok closed in September 2018. ThailandLover keeps it in the historical section of this directory. The New National Zoo at Khlong 6 in Pathum Thani is the planned public replacement and is still under construction.
What is the difference between a zoo and a safari park?
A zoo is usually a walk-through zoological park with many species in managed habitats. A safari park is organised around a vehicle or open-habitat route. Safari World is a safari park. Khao Kheow is an open zoo. Chiang Mai Night Safari is a night safari / wildlife park. The labels on this page follow that distinction.
What are the best wildlife attractions in Thailand for families?
Family is a tag, not a ranking. Listings tagged for families include the ZPO zoos, Safari World, Chiang Mai Night Safari, Chai Nat Bird Park, SEA LIFE Bangkok and Aquaria Phuket. Remote sanctuaries and appointment-only rescue centres are usually a poorer fit for very young children.
Where can I see elephants in Thailand?
This directory lists the Thai Elephant Conservation Center in Lampang, Elephant Kingdom and Ban Ta Klang in Surin, Chiang Dao Elephant Training Centre, Samphran Elephant Ground & Zoo, and Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand. They are not the same kind of place: conservation centre, village, camp, show ground and rescue centre. ThailandLover’s separate guide “Would You Ride an Elephant?” discusses riding. This hub does not recommend riding.
Are there wildlife sanctuaries that tourists can visit in Thailand?
Some sanctuaries allow limited nature-study visits. Huai Kha Khaeng reopened designated points for that purpose in a September 2026 DNP notice, with trail closures still in force. Omkoi is a remote sanctuary, not a day zoo. Always confirm access with the sanctuary; many protected forests are not ordinary tourist attractions.
What is the Chiang Mai Night Safari?
Chiang Mai Night Safari is a public-organization nature park in Hang Dong, opened in 2006. It offers night and day safari tram routes. It is not Chiang Mai Zoo, which is a separate ZPO zoo in Mueang District.
Is Safari World in Bangkok a zoo or a safari park?
Safari World is a safari park with a marine park, in Min Buri, Bangkok. It is not one of the ZPO zoos and it is not a substitute for the closed Dusit Zoo.
Which wildlife attractions are suitable for children?
Public zoos and indoor aquariums are the most straightforward listings for children in this directory. Appointment-only rescue centres, remote sanctuaries and parks that offer close contact with large carnivores need more judgement from the adults in the group.
Which animal attractions are focused on conservation?
Listings tagged for conservation here include Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand, Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuary, the Thai Elephant Conservation Center and ZPO’s Elephant Kingdom project in Surin. A commercial park may mention conservation; that claim is not independently certified on this page.
Are all animal attractions in Thailand ethical?
No. Thailand’s animal attractions range from public zoos and rescue centres to commercial parks that offer shows, riding or handling. Welfare standards are not uniform, and this directory does not certify any operator. Travellers who care about welfare should look at enclosure quality, whether animals are used for entertainment, whether riding or touching is sold, and whether conservation claims are independently supported — then decide for themselves.
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