A day trip to Edinburgh Zoo is always fabulous. This informative article offers answers to lots of the Commonly Asked Questions, to help you to obtain the best out of your visit.
What’s the best time of day to visit Edinburgh Zoo?
You’ll most likely require a full day if you’re going to see everything – so get there early – the Zoo opens at 9am. Otherwise, numerous activities take place during the course of the day – therefore it will depend on what you would like to see – check the website. The well-known Penguin Parade is usually at 2:15 so make sure that you are in time to see it.
Is there anywhere to stay near the zoo?
Absolutely – there is a Holiday Inn right next door – with parking. On the other hand, there are lots of alternative hotels near Edinburgh Zoo
What animals can one find at Edinburgh Zoo?
There’s a lot of different creatures to see at Edinburgh Zoo – too many to list here, however some highlights are: Anteaters, Lions, Leopards, Armadillos, Porcupines, Monkeys, Chimpanzees, Zebras, Rhinos, Jaguars, Tapirs, Wolves, Sea Lions, Koalas, Penguins and Camels. The zoo doesn’t have a Polar Bear (this was moved to the Highland Wildlife Park) or Giraffes, and does not have Elephants.
Where have the giraffes gone in Edinburgh Zoo?
They were transferred to Givskud Zoo in Denmark in 2004 and they are involved in their breeding programme. The giraffe enclosure at Edinburgh Zoo has been redeveloped for rhinos.
Am i allowed to take my dog to Edinburgh Zoo?
Sorry, only guide-dogs are permitted within the zoo in order to minimise the stress to the animals.
Where can I find Edinburgh Zoo’s web site?
http://www.edinburghzoo.org.uk/
When is Edinburgh Zoo open to the public?
The Zoo is open every single day of the year – which includes Christmas Day! It opens at 9am every day, and closes at 6pm April – September, 5pm October and March, and 4:30 pm November to February.
What should I wear?
It depends upon the season (and the weather). In the summer months, the weather can be agreeably warm (tee shirt and shorts or similar). But there is often the possibility of rain, so either take something water resistant, or enjoy the indoor exhibits until the shower goes by. In wintertime it will be cold, and possibly windy / raining, so warm, water resistant clothing will be needed. On most spring or autumn days you’ll want a sweatshirt or perhaps a fleece at some stage. Whatever season it is, ensure you have good shoes or boots for walking – there’s plenty of walking at Edinburgh zoo – and it is built on a large hill too – so trainers or walking boots are your best option.
How do I get there?
Lothian Buses numbers 12, 26 and 31 (all from Princes Street) will get you to the Zoo. If you’re going by car – put the postcode EH12 6TS into your SatNav, and that will guide you there. There’s lots of car parking on most days.