Khao Kheow Open Zoo

Description:

• While some may be satisfied with the zoo experience at Dusit Zoo inside Bangkok, for the mother of all zoo parks in Thailand you need to take a day trip outside of the city. Head south toward Pattaya to Khao Keo. This expansive preserve of animals gives most of its residents a lot of room to move around and its visitors the chance to interact with them. You can feed elephants, rhinos, hippos and more. Giraffes walk right up and grab carrots out of your hand where you view them from a raised platform. There is an enclosed bird sanctuary with many exotic species, a butterfly garden, "penguin parade" and so much more. The whole park in general offers a lot of educational opportunities. You can rent golf carts to get around the park rather than taking your car in. Ticket prices are 300 baht for both adults and children. Regular park hours are from 8-6pm daily, but there is a special nighttime program that begins at 5:30pm and requires advanced booking. It includes dinner and an animal show and ends at 8:45. Expect a bit more than an hour's drive but it is worth the time and the kids are going to love it. Plus, there are accommodations available.
  
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