Zoo Taiping & Night Safari sits at the foot of Bukit Larut in Taiping, Perak, about 1 km from the town centre, and you reach it through the Lake Gardens. Opened in 1961, it is Malaysia's oldest zoo and has about 180 species, from Malayan tigers and elephants to African lions, giraffes and orangutans. The enclosures are open and planted to resemble natural habitats. The Night Safari, which opened in 2003 as Malaysia's first nocturnal park, lets you see animals that are active after dark. A free tram takes you round the grounds, and walking brings you closer to the animals.
From tin mine to public garden
The ground that the Lake Gardens and the zoo now occupy was once a tin mining site. During British rule in the 1880s, it was donated to become a recreation park. Rain trees, plants and grasses were planted, and the park became the first public garden in Malaya.
The zoo came later. The Taiping Town Council built it in 1961, and it was first known as Taman Mergastua. It is also the only zoo in northern Peninsular Malaysia.
The Night Safari
The Night Safari opened in June 2003 and was officiated by the Sultan of Perak. Its tram ride is included in the Night Safari ticket and lasts about 30 minutes. A guide explains the layout of the zoo and the animals you pass.
After the tram, you can get off and walk back through the same areas. At night some animals are clearly visible as they move around their enclosures. The zoo uses lighting similar to moonlight so the animals keep something close to their natural rhythm. It is cooler after dark, so bring warm clothes.
The zoo also runs feeding sessions, animal shows, guided train tours and educational programmes. Check which of these are on during your visit.
Enclosures and what to look for
The animals are grouped by region, with areas for African savannah, Australia, the Sahara and Asia. Snakes and birds have their own enclosure. The open-air design means many animals live in naturalistic spaces, and monkeys move freely through the grounds without bothering visitors.
The zoo has a conservation and research role alongside its public exhibits. Among the animals that are unique to the country are the Malayan tapir, the Malayan elephant and the Malayan porcupine. Chimpanzees and African lions are also on view.
The reptile area is smaller than some visitors expect, and some species such as the capybara and arapaima may not be on view on any given day. Treat the species list as a guide rather than a promise.
Walking and the tram
The free daytime tram is the easiest way to see the grounds first. Walking gives you closer views of the animals and the landscaped paths, but it is tiring if you are not used to long walks. Allow about 3 hours if you plan to walk most of the zoo.
A common plan is to take the tram first and then walk the rest. Tram commentary can be hard to hear at times, so sit near the front if the guide's words matter to you.
Perguntas frequentes
Is there an entry fee?
Yes. Adult admission has been listed at RM16. Check the official website before you go, as prices can change.
How long do you need at Zoo Taiping?
Allow about 3 hours to walk most of the zoo. You can cut that time by riding the tram for part of the route.
Is the tram free?
The daytime tram is free. For the Night Safari, the tram ride is included in the ticket.
Can I buy tickets in advance?
Yes. Tickets can be bought online, which helps you skip the queue at the ticket counter.
Is the zoo wheelchair accessible?
The entrance, seating and parking lot are listed as wheelchair accessible.
