Prepare to be amazedand enchanted by the diversity of animal life on display at San Diego Zoo,which welcomes 5 million visitors a year. The 100-acre (40-hectare) site ishome to around 4,000 animals from more than 650 species and subspecies. Mostexhibits are open air, and designed to be as close to the natural habitats ofthe animals they house as possible.
Get an up-close viewof African native animals such as water buffalos and hogs. Sit among dozens ofdifferent species of tropical birds in the two aviaries. There is a real senseof awe watching tigers, elephants and gorillas at such close quarters.
The San Diego Zoo isalso a highly successful breeding facility for a number of endangered species,including their famous giant pandas. Watch these heart-warming gentle giantssleep, eat and play at a special walk-through exhibit, the Panda Trek.
Tourbuses run through the grounds throughout the day and offer a 35-minute,narrated journey that covers around 70 percent of the zoo’s area. This is agood way to get a feel for the layout before setting off on foot. Alighthearted 50-minute comedy version of the tour is also available. A greatoption for seeing the entire zoo in a day is purchasing a day pass on theexpress bus, which stops at five points around the park. Or, hop on theSkyfari, a breathtaking gondola ride above the zoo grounds.
Arrive early to beatthe crowds and maybe you’ll see some of the animals being fed. Overcast dayscan be the most rewarding time to visit, as the animals are known to seek theshade of their caves and indoor respites to hide from the sun.
Thezoo has 10 food outlets, including cafés, a full-service restaurant, and stallsthat sell take-away sandwiches and hot food. It’s open everyday of the year, including public holidays. Closing times differaccording to the season, with extended hours during some vacation periods andsummer.
