Sumatran tiger walking through foliage at Edinburgh Zoo.
Chilean flamingos in habitat at Edinburgh Zoo.
Children watching meerkats at Edinburgh Zoo enclosure.
Clownfish swimming near coral in reef tank at Edinburgh Zoo.
Crowned lemur sitting on a tree branch at Edinburgh Zoo.
Zoo entrance sign at Edinburgh Zoo with visitors walking up stairs.
Waldrapp ibis perched on a branch at Edinburgh Zoo.

Edinburgh Zoo Entrance Tickets

Edinburgh
•Zoos
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Duration: 2 hours

Free cancellation

Free cancellation up to 48 hours before the start of your experience

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Explore Edinburgh Zoo Entrance Tickets for an enriching day out in Edinburgh, United Kingdom. At this renowned zoo managed by the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland, you'll encounter over 2,500 animals and learn about wildlife conservation while enjoying a self-paced adventure. Conveniently located just a short drive from the city center, it promises ample time to explore at your leisure throughout the day.

One of Scotland’s top wildlife attractions is The Edinburgh Zoo, home to 2,500 animals including big cats, primates, birds, reptiles, and rare mammals.

Custom-built habitats at the zoo allow visitors to observe elusive species such as Asiatic lions, sloth bears, and pygmy hippos in environments that mirror their native ecosystems and behaviours.

The Edinburgh Zoo hosts special events like keeper talks, family trails, and hands-on exhibits aligned with international days including Conservation Day.

As part of its mission, the zoo collaborates on global efforts to protect wildlife by focusing on recovering 50 endangered or critically threatened species worldwide.

Situated just a short 10-minute journey from Edinburgh’s city centre, The Edinburgh Zoo offers visitors easy access and ample time for exploration at their own pace.

Standard entry tickets to Edinburgh Zoo

Individual Costs

Sumatran tiger walking through foliage at Edinburgh Zoo.

Sumatran tiger walking through foliage at Edinburgh Zoo.

Your Experience at Edinburgh Zoo

Located in the heart of Scotland, just a 10-minute drive away from central Edinburgh, The Edinburgh Zoo offers an enriching experience where you can explore over 2,500 diverse animals. Here, wildlife conservation is emphasized through engaging exhibits and informative keeper talks.

Getting Started

To begin your adventure at the zoo, simply arrive by car or public transport for a quick journey to its main entrance. Upon arrival, present your Edinburgh Zoo Entrance Tickets and pick up a map or access the digital guide via an app like Go City to ensure you don't miss any highlights. You have the flexibility of spending as much time as you wish exploring on your own schedule.

What to Expect

The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland runs this esteemed zoo, blending animal exhibits with a commitment to global conservation efforts. Visitors learn about how The Edinburgh Zoo actively participates in protecting 50 species from extinction through various onsite and international projects.

  • Wildlife Variety: Encounter an array of animals including giraffes, tigers, pygmy hippos, sloths, and even Scotland’s exclusive koalas.
  • Real Conservation Efforts: Learn about the zoo's dedication to saving endangered species through both local initiatives and global collaborations.
  • Interactive Exhibits: Engage with hands-on areas where you can participate in keeper talks that explore animal care practices for rare species.
  • Year-Round Events: Enjoy a variety of activities throughout the year, from otter days and themed trails to entertaining family shows.
Chilean flamingos in habitat at Edinburgh Zoo.

Chilean flamingos in habitat at Edinburgh Zoo.

Children watching meerkats at Edinburgh Zoo enclosure.

Children watching meerkats at Edinburgh Zoo enclosure.

Clownfish swimming near coral in reef tank at Edinburgh Zoo.

Clownfish swimming near coral in reef tank at Edinburgh Zoo.

    Ensure your entry tickets and ID are ready to streamline the process upon arrival at Edinburgh Zoo Entrance Tickets.

    Prohibited Items

    • No sharp metallic tools, alcohol, drones, radios, scooters, bikes, rollerblades or skates, glass items allowed. Venue restrictions apply here.
    • Pets are not permitted due to venue rules.
    • Guests under the age of 15 must be accompanied by a guardian for safety reasons.

    No smoking is allowed on-site, including e-cigarettes.

    Accessibility Details

    • The facility is accessible to wheelchair users and pram/stroller owners.

    You may bring your guide dogs along for the visit.

    Additional Information

    • Parking facilities are available on-site.
    • Cosplay enthusiasts might need to remove their costumes upon request for safety reasons.
    • No re-entry is allowed without approval from park authorities after exiting the venue.

    In case of extreme weather, the zoo may close. Your tickets will remain valid for another visit date.

    Crowned lemur sitting on a tree branch at Edinburgh Zoo.

    Crowned lemur sitting on a tree branch at Edinburgh Zoo.

    Zoo entrance sign at Edinburgh Zoo with visitors walking up stairs.

    Zoo entrance sign at Edinburgh Zoo with visitors walking up stairs.

    Arrive with your entry tickets and ID ready for a smooth check-in process at Edinburgh Zoo's entrance.

    To make the most of your day, consider downloading a digital guide or grabbing a map from the start to ensure you don't miss any key exhibits.

    If planning multiple visits in the area, begin with Edinburgh Zoo since it’s just a 10-minute drive from central Edinburgh, allowing for efficient exploration.

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    Operating hours

    Edinburgh Zoo

    Monday
    10:00am - 6:00pm
    Tuesday
    10:00am - 6:00pm
    Wednesday
    10:00am - 6:00pm
    Thursday
    10:00am - 6:00pm
    Friday
    10:00am - 6:00pm
    Saturday
    10:00am - 6:00pm
    Sunday
    10:00am - 6:00pm
    • Timings are displayed in the venue's time zone.
    • Closed on 25th Dec 2026.

    By proceeding with any booking via Staybook, you acknowledge and agree to adhere to all the .

    FAQs

    A full day visit is recommended to explore all areas of the zoo thoroughly. On average, most people spend 4-6 hours at the zoo, though some visitors choose to stay longer for special events or feeding times. Plan your visit based on your interests and schedule.
    Absolutely, Edinburgh Zoo offers numerous family-friendly attractions including penguin feeding sessions, interactive exhibits, and special events like Santa's Grotto during winter holidays. There are dedicated play areas such as the Rainforest Adventure exhibit where children can learn about conservation efforts while having fun.
    Booking online is highly recommended especially during peak summer months or school holidays when the zoo can get very busy. Advance bookings also offer discounts compared to purchasing at the gate and ensure you secure entry on your preferred date without waiting in long queues.
    The ideal time to visit is early morning or late afternoon when the zoo is less crowded and temperatures are cooler. Summer mornings can be busy, but evenings offer a quieter experience with fewer visitors. Winter visits provide opportunities for unique wildlife behaviors such as penguin swims and snow leopard activities.
    Bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and plenty of water as it can get hot during summer months. Comfortable walking shoes are essential given the extensive walking paths throughout the zoo. Consider bringing snacks and a camera for memorable moments with wildlife. A reusable water bottle is also helpful.
    Photography is allowed throughout most of the zoo, but always check specific exhibit guidelines as some areas may have restrictions. Use a smartphone or compact camera for convenience; professional equipment might not be permitted due to space constraints and animal welfare concerns.
    The easiest way is by car or bus from central Edinburgh; driving takes approximately 20 minutes depending on traffic conditions. Public buses run frequently and drop off near the zoo entrance. For those preferring public transport, a taxi ride costs around £15-£20 one-way during peak hours.
    Your admission fee includes access to all exhibits featuring over 100 species of animals including koalas and penguins. Additionally, you gain entry to special exhibitions like the Scottish Penguin Pavilion and the Bug World exhibit. Some interactive experiences may require separate purchase but are clearly marked.
    You can take part in keeper talks, family trails, and hands-on exhibits tied to international days like Conservation Day.
    Yes, you have the entire day to roam around as you wish and explore at your leisure.
    It's a short 10-minute drive or public transport ride from the city centre.
    The standard entry tickets allow you access to the zoo itself; personal expenses like food or souvenirs aren't covered.
    You'll find custom-built habitats designed to match the native ecosystems and behaviors of species like Asiatic lions, sloth bears, and pygmy hippos.
    The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland is responsible for running the zoo.
    You'll encounter over 2,500 animals including big cats, primates, birds, reptiles, and rare mammals.
    The zoo works on recovering 50 endangered or critically threatened species worldwide.
    Sharp metallic tools, alcohol, drones, radios, scooters, bikes, rollerblades or skates, glass items, pets, smoking including e-cigarettes, and guests under age 15 without a guardian are not permitted.
    Make sure to have your entry tickets and ID ready for a smooth experience.
    Yes, you can participate in keeper talks, family trails, and hands-on exhibits tied to international days like Conservation Day.
    At Edinburgh Zoo, you'll encounter over 2,500 animals including big cats, primates, birds, reptiles, and rare mammals like Asiatic lions, sloth bears, and pygmy hippos.
    Guests under the age of 15 must be accompanied by a guardian while visiting the zoo.
    Your standard entry tickets grant you access to explore all that the zoo has to offer during your visit.
    Smoking, including e-cigarettes, is not permitted at Edinburgh Zoo for safety reasons.
    Sharp metallic tools, alcohol, drones, radios, scooters, bikes, rollerblades or skates, glass items, and e-cigarettes are not allowed at Edinburgh Zoo.
    Edinburgh Zoo is just a short 10-minute drive or public transport ride away from the city centre.
    Make sure you have your entry tickets and ID prepared for a smooth visit.
    The zoo works on recovering 50 endangered or critically threatened species worldwide as part of its ongoing conservation efforts.
    Pets are not allowed at Edinburgh Zoo due to venue restrictions.

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