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Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens (Thao Cam Vien in Vietnamese) is a long-standing zoo that has become a beloved recreational destination for generations of Ho Chi Minh City people. Today, it's more than just a zoo, it has become a cultural icon and a historical symbol of the city. As children, many kids grew up listening to songs about the zoo. Even those who haven’t had a chance to visit may still recognize the name “Thao Cam Vien”.
Entrance gate to Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens
With over 150 years of history, Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens remains one of Vietnam’s leading zoos for wildlife and plant conservation. Despite being located in the heart of the city, the atmosphere here is always fresh, filled with the sounds of animals, lush greenery, and beautiful flowers. Let Asia King Travel take you on a visit through the article below!
The French began construction of Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens on March 23, 1864, initially naming it "Jardin Botanique" (the Botanical Garden). The first manager was veterinarian Adolphe Germain. After a year of development, the garden covered an area of about 12 hectares and was designed for planting trees and housing some wild animals.
As you enter, you’ll see a grassy lawn displaying the year the zoo was established
In 1865, renowned botanist J. B. Louis Pierre was appointed as director. The zoo's area was then expanded to 20 hectares, cultivating many rare plant species from around the world. Today, a bust honoring him still stands within the zoo.
In 1956, the Botanical Garden was renovated and officially renamed Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens. During the 1980s and 1990s, the zoo underwent continuous upgrades to its facilities and the living environments for its animals.
Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens is located next to the Thi Nghe Canal, with its main entrance at No. 2 Nguyen Binh Khiem Street and a side entrance at No. 1 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1.
From Tan Son Nhat Airport, you can easily reach the zoo by taking Cach Mang Thang Tam Street and turning onto Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street. Besides using a private vehicle or taxi, you can also take one of the following bus routes: 05, 06, 14, 19, 42, D1, or 52, all of which stop right at the zoo.
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Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens is open from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM every day, including weekends and public holidays. On Saturday evenings, there is also a special night tour that starts at 7:00 PM and 8:15 PM, each lasting for one hour.
The entrance fee is VND 60,000 for adults and children over 1.3 meters tall. Children under 1.3 meters are charged VND 40,000, and those under 1 meter get free admission. There are also various discounts and free entry available for certain eligible groups and large tour groups.
A Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens zookeeper feeding a bear cub
The most beautiful time to see the trees in the zoo is right after the Lunar New Year or around mid-year. Since Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens is quite large, it takes about 4–5 hours to explore. So it’s best to arrive a bit early, either around 8:00 AM or after 2:00 PM to avoid the heat.
Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens is currently home to over 2,000 animals representing more than 120 species. From rare and wild creatures like tigers, elephants, and zebras to gentle and beautiful animals such as peacocks, capybaras, and rabbits, you’ll find them all here. And it’s not just about watching, you can also interact with some of them!
You'll get to touch the adorable capybaras
Children can directly touch and play with small animals in a specially designed, kid-friendly area that ensures absolute safety and full enjoyment for both kids and their families. Here, they not only get to have fun but also gain valuable knowledge about the animal world.
The zoo grounds feel like a forest in the heart of the city, filled with countless shady green trees. Alongside ancient trees, there are also many fruit trees and ornamental plants with uniquely striking shapes. Especially during the blooming season, the scenery becomes even more romantic, attracting many visitors who come to capture its beautiful moments.
Trees are trimmed into the shapes of animals
Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens hosts free weekend performances every Saturday and Sunday morning from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, and again on Sunday afternoons from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM. These shows may include fascinating magic tricks, animal circus performances, and more. Since the performances take place in different areas throughout the zoo, be sure to grab a map so you don’t miss out!
Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens also hosts events for children on holidays
Some animals in the zoo are nocturnal, so they tend to be a bit "lazy" and less active during the day, making it harder for visitors to observe them. That’s why the zoo recently launched a special night tour, held every Saturday at 7:00 PM and 8:15 PM. On this tour, you’ll ride directly to the nocturnal animal enclosures, without stopping at other areas.
In addition to observing, you’ll also learn about how nocturnal animals are cared for at the zoo. All species included in the program are true nocturnal animals, ensuring that the tour does not disturb their natural habits and behaviors. Moreover, the number of visitors and tours is limited to avoid disrupting the animals' lives.
The lazy staff animals during the day will have to work overtime
Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens also features an amusement park area. Ticket prices for each ride are charged separately and are not included in the general admission fee. This is also a great spot for visitors to relax, grab a bite to eat, and recharge after a long day of exploring.
After exploring the sights of Ho Chi Minh City, take some time to unwind at Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens. You’ll feel like a kid again as you play with adorable animals, and the natural scenery makes for stunning photos. Want to pet a capybara? Get in touch with Asia King Travel now!
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