The Taipei Zoo, located in Taipei’s Wenshan District, is one of the largest and most celebrated zoos in Southeast Asia, covering 165 hectares and housing over 400 animal species. Opened in 1914, it’s a premier destination for families, animal lovers, and eco-conscious travelers, offering a blend of conservation, education, and recreation. From adorable giant pandas to Taiwan’s native Formosan black bears, this zoo promises a full day of exploration. Here’s your comprehensive guide to visiting Taipei Zoo.
A Travel Guide to Taipei Zoo
Why Visit Taipei Zoo?
Taipei Zoo stands out for its diverse wildlife, well-maintained habitats, and affordability. It’s home to rare animals like giant pandas, koalas, and pangolins, alongside immersive exhibits such as the Tropical Rainforest and Formosan Animal Area, showcasing Taiwan’s endemic species. The zoo’s commitment to conservation and education, paired with family-friendly amenities like a children’s zoo and shuttle train, makes it a must-visit. Its lush landscaping and proximity to the scenic Maokong Gondola add to its appeal, offering a perfect mix of nature and adventure.
How to Get There
Taipei Zoo is easily accessible from central Taipei, thanks to the city’s efficient public transportation system:
By MRT (Metro): Take the Wenhu Line (Brown Line) to Taipei Zoo Station (BR01), the terminal stop. Exit 1 leads directly to the zoo’s main entrance, a 3-minute walk away. Travel time from Taipei Main Station is about 20–25 minutes, with a fare of NT$20–30 (approx. US$0.60–0.90). Use an EasyCard for seamless payment across MRT, buses, and zoo tickets.
By Bus: Routes like 236, 282, or 611 stop at Taipei Zoo. Check schedules via apps like Taipei Bus Tracker. Fares are NT$15–30 (approx. US$0.50–1), payable with cash or EasyCard.
By Taxi or Ride-Hailing: A taxi from central Taipei (e.g., Taipei 101) takes 15–20 minutes and costs NT$150–200 (approx. US$5–6). Apps like Taiwan Taxi are widely used. Uber is available but less common.
By Car: Drive via National Freeway #3 to the Muzha Interchange, then turn onto Xinguang Road. Parking is available near both entrances (main and south), costing NT$30–50/hour. Address: No. 30, Section 2, Xinguang Road, Wenshan District, Taipei City.
Maokong Gondola Option: For a scenic approach, take the Maokong Gondola to Taipei Zoo South Station, which connects to the zoo’s south entrance via a NT$5 shuttle train. The gondola ride offers stunning views of Taipei’s hills.
Best Time to Visit
Year-Round Appeal: The zoo is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:00 PM), except on Chinese New Year’s Eve and occasionally late June for maintenance. Indoor exhibits may close on Mondays for cleaning.
Seasonal Tips: Spring (March–May): Mild weather (15–25°C) and blooming gardens make this ideal for outdoor exploration. Summer (June–August): Hot and humid (25–35°C); visit early to avoid heat and crowds. Bring sunscreen and water. Autumn (September–November): Cool and comfortable (20–28°C), with fewer crowds post-summer. Winter (December–February): Cooler (10–20°C) but rainy; the indoor exhibits like the Panda House shine during this season.
Crowd Avoidance: Arrive at opening (9:00 AM) on weekdays for a quieter experience. Weekends, especially for the Panda House, require free timed-entry tickets at the entrance.
Tickets and Costs
General Admission: Adults: NT$100 (approx. US$3); Taipei residents: NT$60; Students/Children (6–12): NT$50; Children under 6: Free; Groups (30+): NT$70. Additional Fees: Education Center (Animal Ecology and Dinosaur Museum): NT$20; Shuttle Train: NT$5 per ride.
Booking: Purchase tickets at the entrance (cash or card) or online via platforms like Trip.com or the Taipei Fun Pass, which includes zoo entry and other attractions. Use an EasyCard for quick entry at automated gates (channels 7–9 at the main entrance or south station).
Note: The Taipei Fun Pass or Klook 3-Day Taipei Pass offers discounted entry and transport, ideal for tourists combining multiple attractions.
What to See and Do
The zoo is divided into 8 outdoor areas, 6 indoor houses, and an Education Center, offering something for everyone:
Giant Panda House: The zoo’s star attraction, featuring pandas Yuan Yuan and Yuan Zai (Tuan Tuan passed away in 2022). Their air-conditioned enclosure mimics their natural habitat, complete with bamboo and climbing structures. Visit early or get a timed ticket on weekends to avoid crowds. Fun Fact: The pandas were a 2008 gift from China, symbolizing “panda diplomacy.”
Formosan Animal Area: Showcases Taiwan’s native wildlife, including the Formosan black bear, sika deer, clouded leopard, and pangolin. The area educates visitors on conservation efforts for these endangered species.
Children’s Zoo: Perfect for kids, with interactive enclosures featuring alpacas, ponies, meerkats, and farm animals. Some areas allow petting, making it a hit with young visitors.
Tropical Rainforest Area: A lush zone with tigers, orangutans, Malayan tapirs, and the new Pangolin Dome, a highlight for its immersive design and conservation focus.
Koala House and Penguin House: Meet cuddly koalas from Australia and playful penguins in climate-controlled habitats. These are crowd favorites, especially for families.
Other Notable Zones: African Animal Area: Giraffes, elephants, and hippos in spacious habitats. Australian Animal Area: Kangaroos and emus in a simulated outback. Insectarium: Vibrant butterflies and giant bugs, ideal for curious minds. Amphibian and Reptile House: Home to crocodiles, snakes, and rare frogs.
Education Center (Animal Ecology and Dinosaur Museum): A 2-floor museum with stuffed animals, dinosaur exhibits, and Taipei Zoo history. Great for educational outings, though it costs an extra NT$20.
Shuttle Train: A NT$5 ride connects the main entrance to the south end (Bird World and Maokong Gondola station), saving time and energy on the zoo’s hilly terrain.
Where to Eat
On-Site Dining: Panda World Theme Restaurant (2nd floor, Panda House): Offers pizza, pasta, and panda-themed desserts (NT$100–300). Desert and African Animal Zones: Food courts with Mos Burger, Ireland’s Potato, and Street Churros (NT$50–150).
Near Entrance: McDonald’s and a 7-11 for quick bites and snacks. Vending machines and free water fountains are scattered throughout.
Picnics: You can bring your own food, with plenty of shaded picnic areas available.
Nearby: After the zoo, ride the Maokong Gondola to Maokong for tea houses serving Taiwanese tea and local dishes like stinky tofu.
Where to Stay
The zoo is a day trip from central Taipei, but staying nearby enhances convenience:
Xinyi District (15–20 minutes away): Grand Hyatt Taipei (5-star): Luxury near Taipei 101, from NT$6,000/night. Humble House Taipei (4-star): Modern and central, NT$3,500–5,000/night. Wenshan District (5–10 minutes away):
Taipei Tea House (boutique): Cozy and nature-themed, NT$2,000–3,000/night. Hostels: Options like Star Hostel Taipei offer budget beds from NT$500–1,000/night. Booking: Use Agoda, Booking.com, or Trip.com for deals, especially during off-peak seasons.
Tips for a Great Visit
Plan for 3–5 Hours: The zoo’s size requires stamina. Prioritize key exhibits like the Panda House and Tropical Rainforest if time is limited. Wear Comfortable Clothing: Long sleeves, pants, and walking shoes are ideal due to the hilly terrain and insects. Bring sunscreen and mosquito repellent.
Photography: Flash photography is prohibited to protect animals. The zoo’s lush settings are perfect for photos, especially in the rainforest and panda areas. Combine with Maokong Gondola: After the zoo, take the gondola (NT$120–150) to Maokong for tea-tasting and Taipei skyline views.
Rules: No pets, balloons, or feeding animals. Eating is prohibited in indoor exhibits to maintain cleanliness. Accessibility: Strollers and wheelchairs are available for rent, and paths are wide and stroller-friendly.
Final Thoughts
Taipei Zoo is a world-class attraction that combines affordability, biodiversity, and family-friendly fun. Whether you’re marveling at pandas, exploring Taiwan’s native species, or enjoying a scenic gondola ride, the zoo offers an enriching experience that showcases Taiwan’s commitment to nature and conservation. Arrive early, wear comfortable shoes, and prepare for a day of discovery in one of Asia’s finest zoos. For more adventure, pair your visit with Maokong’s tea culture or nearby Shenkeng Old Street for a taste of local cuisine.
Happy travels!
