Your Guide to the Bali Zoo in sukawati, bali

Elephants,Lions, Zebras & Even Deer- Only 15 Minutes From Ubud, Bali!

Exploring the Wonders of Bali Zoo: A Captivating Wildlife Adventure

elephant at the bali zoo

ELELPHANT IN BALI ZOO

BIRDS EYE VIEW OF BALI ZOO

No matter where you are on vacation, the local zoo is always a good choice for a day trip, whether you're with your significant other, your friends, or your family. If you're staying near the city of Sukawati in Bali, then you NEED to add the Bali Zoo to your list. It's only 15 minutes away from the popular tourist destination Ubud!


Now, I'll be honest- zoos are not typically my favorite stop to make on vacation. While I never mind attending a little zoo trip with friends for a couple hours, I'll usually choose a different experience if given the choice. But the Bali Zoo? I would have never wanted to miss that. In fact, I wanted to go AGAIN after we went. The main reason for that? The animals. Your favorite zoo animals are there- lions, tigers, bears. But there were also deer roaming that were barely in an enclosure, elephants that you can feed, wash, or ride, and more! That means that whether you're a zoo and fellow animal lover or you simply want to experience something a little different in Bali, the Bali Zoo is for you.

THE BALI ZOO HOURS

The Bali Zoo is open Monday-Sunday 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (or in military hours, from 09:00 to 17:00). If you're looking to visit on a holiday, I would give the zoo a call or take a look at their social media. Their Instagram is linked here, and their Facebook is linked here, and it looks like they post relatively often. Unfortunately, they do not have holiday hours on their website or displayed on Google!

BALI ZOO GENERAL ADMISSION TICKETS & PACKAGES

There are three ways to enter the Bali Zoo, and each entry option is outlined below but you can buy your entry ticket for cheaper here:

General Admission. You can get a general admission non-refundable ticket for one day, which is currently IDR 355,500 for adults and IDR 252,000 for children ages 2-12. This is equivalent to ~$24 USD or ~$36 AUD for adults and ~$17 USD or ~$26 AUD, and it includes the Animal Encounter Show, Jungle Splash Waterway, and Ticket Insurance. Individuals paying for this ticket can come for approximately 3 hours anytime between 09:00 to 17:00, with the latest check-in being 16:00. 

Packages. There are three packages: Single Package, Combo Package, and Stay Package. WIthin each of these packages are different experiences. For example, visitors opting for the Single Package can choose between breakfast with an orangutang, elephant mud fun, elephant expedition (rides), or half-day Bali Zoo Explorer with lunch, and they all include hotel transfers! The Combo packages are a combination or the Single Packages, and the Stay Packages include both Single Packages and nightly stays in a beautiful hotel. Prices vary for these packages. 

Annual Memberships. These are one year passes, and they are available for adults and children. Currently, their website does not allow individuals hoping to become members to purchase these annual passes through the website, so if you are interested in this option, I suggest calling or expecting to buy the membership at the zoo itself. 

GETTING AROUND: A MAP OF THE BALI ZOO IN SUKAWATI, BALI

It can be tough to navigate a large zoo, especially when in a foreign country! Luckily, the Bali Zoo has created a beautiful map for its visitors to use, which I've included below. If you're looking to download this map and save it to your phone, click here. I'd advise keeping it handy, just in case you're looking to see a few key animals but you're unsure where to go!

bali zoo map

WHAT ANIMALS ARE AT THE BALI ZOO?

With the Bali Zoo covering over 22 acres of land, it's no surprise that it acts as the home to over 600 animals from around the world and 65 species. From "traditional" zoo animals like monkeys, lions, and colorful birds to giraffes, kangaroos, elephants, and zebras, there are countless different species at this zoo. Every single type of animal at the Bali Zoo is outlined in the bullets below:

Elephants

Orangutangs 

Sunbears

Siamang

Goats

Muntjak

Bawean Deer

Blue & Gold Macaw

Sulphur-Crested Cockatoo

Black Palm Cockatoo

Meerkat

Wreathed Hornbill

Emys

Bali Mynah

Red Eared Slider

Komodo Dragon

Mouse Deer

Lemur

Green Iguana

Bengal Tiger

Javan Peafowl

Double Wattled Cassowary

Sunda Slow Ioris

Electus Parrot

Wallaby

Civet

Shetland Horse

Sumatran Tiger

Carcal

Hyena

African Lion

Giraffe

Lion

Flamingo

Pelican

Asian Bearcat

Sulcata Tortoise

Asian Otters

Guinea Fowl 

Python

Saltwater Crocodile

Wild Boar

Caiman

Sugar Glider

False Gharial

Agile Gibbon

Silvery Gibbon

Asian Forest Tortoise

Common Marmoset

FOOD & REFRESHMENTS AT THE BALI ZOO

The Bali Zoo offers a number of great options when it comes to food and beverages on the grounds! All options are outlined at the bottom of their linktree here with the menus, and I've listed the restaurant options below with a summary of what they sell:

Central Food Villages. Located in the almost center of the zoo near the African Lions, Zebras, and Ostriches, this food court offers Indonesian food, Indian flavor (butter chicken, dal tadka, etc), Western flavors (pizza and burgers), and fried chicken. They also have a kids menu with mac & cheese, sausages, chicken, and more!

Warung Local & Jacky Fried Chicken. From chicken and burgers to pizza, Indonesian food, and Indian food, this food and refreshment stop near the elephant pool is almost always a popular stop. 

Suku Eats & Drinks. Featuring pizza, sandwiches, and rice bowls, this spot is located near the Orangutangs and Sunbears. They also have a kids menu with chicken nuggets and french fries, grilled cheese, and margarita pizza. As far as beverages go, Suku Eats & Drinks has everything from mix juices and soft drinks to iced/hot coffees, and teas.  

Kedai Sumatra. Specializing in pizza and fresh juices, smoothies, and milkshakes, Kedai Sumatra is located near the Orangutangs and Sunbears. This is also a simply delish dessert place with crepes and churros of all different flavors! 

BALI ZOO ONE-OF-A-KIND EXCURSIONS

While visitors are free to opt for a simple general admission ticket and wander the Bali Zoo looking at the countless animals, there are also some exceptional options for those looking to do something a little different. With that being said, some of the most profound Bali Zoo excursions include:

Breakfast With Orangutangs. Enjoy a delectable morning breakfast with one of the friendliest species in the zoo- orangutangs! This is an experience you and your family will never forget.

Elephant Mud Fun. If washing an elephant is on your bucketlist, then this excursion is for you. Not only do you get to learn about the elephants and why they love the mud, but you also get to wash the elephants! 

Elephant Expedition. Ride on the back of an elephant walking through the waters of the Bali Zoo with one other person, and feed the elephants their favorite foods. 

Flamingo Beach Club. The Flamingo Beach Club is right on the beach with a gorgeous pool, comfortable lounging chairs, and all the cocktails and snacks you can think of. 

MY BALI ZOO EXPERIENCE

When my friends and I arrived at Bali Zoo in January, we got there at around noon on a Sunday- aka the busiest time of day. We waited in line for about 15 minutes and had honestly not done much research about the zoo. All we knew was that our driver and friend Putu had recommended the zoo, and we trusted his judgement when it came to all things Bali. While in line, we quickly learned that there were multiple different packages, but since we didn't really come prepared to do any other excursions, we just got the general admission ticket.


The first thing I vividly remember seeing in Bali Zoo was the deer, which were not in an enclosure. This was a little shocking to me because growing up in the United States, every animal at the zoo was in some type of enclosure. After that, my friends and I wandered around gawking at animals we'd never seen before until we saw...THE ELEPHANTS! I had never been that close to an elephant before, and for a few Rupiah per person, we even got to feed them. This was easily my favorite part. The video above shows my friends and I feeding an elephant vegetables, and actually get to pet the elephants! Ever since that day, elephants have become my favorite animal.

PHOTOS FROM MY TRIP

Here are just a few of my photos from visiting Bali Zoo in January:

IS THE BALI ZOO WORTH VISITING?

Overall, if you have time to visit the Bali Zoo and you're in Ubud, it's worth a trip. However, if you're staying over an hour away from Bali Zoo, I think whether you should visit or not depends on your answers to the following questions:

Have you ever seen the animals listed above in a zoo before? 

Would you be interested in any of the excursions at Bali Zoo?

Have you ever fed an elephant, and if not, would you be interested in doing that?  

Is your trip jam packed with other things? 

Personally, I think if you haven't seen a lot of the animals listed above, you're interested in the excursions, or you want to feed an elephant and you never have, then you should. But, on the other side of the coin, if you're further away from Bali Zoo, you've already seen a lot of the animals there, and you're uninterested in the excursions or feeding elephants for a few dollars, then it might not be worth it for you.

WHAT YOU SHOULD EXPECT WHEN PLANNING A TRIP TO BALI ZOO

If you're planning on visiting Bali Zoo, here's a checklist of things to remember to ensure that you have a smooth experience:

Buy your tickets in advance. This will save you time later, once you arrive, especially if you are planning to arrive during a peak time of day. The tickets I've linked here are also usually cheaper than buying the tickets in person at the zoo.

Try to visit on a weekday. Just like any other popular tourist attraction, it's best to visit during one of the days where it's less busy. 

Bring cash. If you want to feed an elephant, you're going to need some cash. This could also be helpful in case any of the restaurants are cash only! 

Plan ahead. If you're reading this blog, you're already doing a great job planning! It's best to plan if you are going to do any excursions, visit the Flamingo Beach Club, etc before you go so you can dress in the proper attire. 

Wear sunscreen. No matter what time of year, Bali is hot. Trust me- I visited Bali Zoo in January and got sunburned pretty badly. Wear sunscreen so you can enjoy your entire trip! 

DON'T FOGET TO ADD THE BALI ZOO TO YOUR NEXT UBUD TRIP

The Bali Zoo is great for all ages and can be a fun experience to add to your itinerary when planning a trip to Bali. If you're looking to do something fun only 15 minutes away from Ubud, add this to your list! For more things Bali-related, click here and plan the most amazing trip to Indonesia that you possibly could. You can thank The Traveling Twin for that ;)

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Frequently Asked Questions

  • Where is the Bali Zoo located?

    The Bali Zoo is located in the Gianyar Regency of Bali, Indonesia. It is situated in the village of Singapadu and the sub-district of Sukawati, approximately 20 kilometers south of Ubud. The zoo is easily accessible from popular tourist areas in Bali and is a popular attraction for visitors interested in observing and learning about various animal species.

  • What are the operating hours of the Bali Zoo?

    The Bali Zoo is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

    However, please note that operating hours can change, and it's always a good idea to check the official website or contact the Bali Zoo directly for the most up-to-date information. They may have adjusted their operating hours or implemented different schedules or restrictions due to various factors such as holidays, events, or unforeseen circumstances.

  • How far is Bali Zoo from Ubud?

    The Bali Zoo is located approximately 20 kilometers (12.4 miles) south of Ubud. The exact travel time between Ubud and the zoo can vary depending on the traffic conditions and the route taken. On average, it takes about 15 to 30 minutes to travel by car from Ubud to the Bali Zoo. The zoo is easily accessible from Ubud, and there are several transportation options available, including hiring a private car, taking a taxi, or arranging transportation through tour operators or hotel services.

  • How far is Bali Zoo from Legian?

    The Bali Zoo is located approximately 34 kilometers (21 miles) northeast of Legian. The travel time between Legian and the zoo can vary depending on traffic conditions and the route taken. On average, it takes about 30 to 45 hours to travel by car from Legian to the Bali Zoo. The actual time may vary, so it's advisable to consider traffic conditions and plan accordingly. There are various transportation options available, such as hiring a private car, taking a taxi, or arranging transportation through tour operators or hotel services.

  • How far is Bali Zoo from Kuta?

    The Bali Zoo is located approximately 37 kilometers (23 miles) northeast of Kuta. The travel time between Kuta and the zoo can vary depending on traffic conditions and the route taken. On average, it takes about 40 mins to an hour to travel by car from Kuta to the Bali Zoo. However, please note that travel times can be longer during peak traffic periods. It's advisable to consider traffic conditions and plan accordingly. Various transportation options are available, including hiring a private car, taking a taxi, or arranging transportation through tour operators or hotel services.

  • Is Bali Zoo worth visiting?

    Yes, the Bali Zoo can be worth visiting for several reasons:

    • Animal Encounters: The Bali Zoo offers various opportunities for visitors to interact with animals up close. You can have the chance to hand-feed elephants, pet deer, hold tropical birds, or even cuddle with orangutans. These experiences can be memorable and provide a unique connection with the animal world.
    • Diverse Animal Collection: Bali Zoo houses a wide range of animals, including rare and exotic species. From tigers and crocodiles to snakes and colorful birds, the zoo offers an opportunity to observe a diverse array of creatures in one place. This can be particularly exciting for those who have limited exposure to such animals in their daily lives.
    • Family-Friendly Environment: The Bali Zoo is designed to cater to families and offers activities that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Children can learn about animals, participate in feeding sessions, and enjoy animal shows and performances, making it a fun and educational experience for the whole family.
    • Beautiful Setting: The zoo is situated in a lush, tropical environment, surrounded by nature. The scenic beauty of the zoo's location adds to the overall experience, providing a serene and enjoyable atmosphere for visitors.

    While it's important to consider the ethical aspects of visiting a zoo, if you are looking to see species of animals from around the world, pet or ride elephants, and/or visit the on-site beach club or hotel, it can be a worthwhile destination to include in your itinerary.

  • How much does Bali Zoo cost?

    The admission prices for Bali Zoo are currently as follows:

    • Adults (ages 13-59): Approximately 325,000 to 375,000 Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) per person.
    • Children (ages 2-12): Approximately 250,000 to 275,000 IDR per person.
    • Infants (under 2 years old): Free admission.

    Please note that these prices are approximate and can vary based on factors such as exchange rates and any updates or changes made by the zoo. It's recommended to check the official website or contact the Bali Zoo directly for the most up-to-date information regarding ticket prices.

  • What should I do in Bali Zoo?

    When you visit the Bali Zoo, there are numerous activities and attractions to enjoy. Here are some exciting things you can do during your visit:

    • Flamingo Beach Club: Spend some leisure time at the Flamingo Beach Club within the zoo premises. Relax by the pool, sip on refreshing drinks, and soak up the tropical ambiance while observing graceful flamingos.
    • Breakfast with Orangutans: Start your day with an unforgettable experience by having breakfast with orangutans. Enjoy a delicious meal while these fascinating creatures roam around you, creating a memorable and unique dining atmosphere.
    • Feeding Elephants: Get a chance to interact with magnificent elephants at the Bali Zoo. Participate in feeding sessions where you can offer fruits and vegetables to these gentle giants, creating a bond and learning more about their behavior.
    • Elephant Rides: Take an elephant ride and embark on a leisurely journey through the lush surroundings of the zoo. Experience the thrill of riding atop these majestic animals while enjoying the beautiful scenery.
    • Animal Encounters: Bali Zoo offers various animal encounters for visitors. You can have close-up interactions with a variety of animals, such as holding tropical birds, petting deer, and even cuddling with orangutans, providing you with unforgettable memories.
    • Animal Shows and Performances: Witness entertaining animal shows and performances that showcase the natural abilities and talents of the zoo's residents. From elephant shows to bird performances, these shows offer an exciting and educational experience.
    • Guided Tours: Join guided tours conducted by knowledgeable staff who provide insights into the zoo's diverse wildlife, conservation efforts, and animal habitats. Explore the zoo's grounds while learning interesting facts about the animals that call it home.

    These are just a few examples of the experiences and activities available at the Bali Zoo. Remember to check the zoo's official website or contact them directly to get the most up-to-date information on the activities, schedules, and any additional offerings they may have during your visit.

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