A journey to explore a lush green space in the heart of the city. Enjoy a unique experience with more than 120 animal species, more than 320 plant species, along with distinctive sightseeing, entertainment, and culinary services.
Saigon Zoo & Botanical Gardens was established on March 23, 1864. It is the eighth oldest zoo in the world and one of the oldest cultural and historical landmarks of Saigon – Ho Chi Minh City. The development history of Saigon Zoo & Botanical Gardens is not merely the story of the formation of a park or a business, but also a journey of continuous effort to preserve the values of a long-standing cultural institution, while protecting the environment and educating the community. Saigon Zoo & Botanical Gardens is not only a place for sightseeing, ecological learning, and recreation, but also a destination deeply tied to the historical memory of the city, preserving beautiful memories for generations of Vietnamese people. It has been, is, and will continue to be a positive force in connecting cultural and historical values, conserving nature from the past to the present, and moving toward the future.
Despite the name, none of the rhinoceros species still living in the world today is actually white. In the 17th and 18th centuries, Dutch settlers in Africa encountered a huge animal with a broad, flat, square-shaped upper lip, perfectly adapted for grazing close to the ground. In Dutch, this feature was described as “wijd,” meaning “wide” or “broad.” When the British later arrived, they mistakenly understood “wijd” as “white”, as the two words sounded quite similar. And so, the name “white rhino” was born.
Crocodiles are ancient giant reptiles that have survived for more than 200 million years to the present day. Their bodies are highly adapted to life both on land and in water. Their thick armored skin protects them from predators and helps them withstand harsh weather conditions, while their highly effective hunting abilities ensure a reliable food supply for survival.
Among the elephants living at Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens, Ny had a difficult childhood. She was brought to a circus and raised there. Behind the stage lights and the applause she received for her performances were long days of demanding training, including exercises that went against the natural behavior, instincts, and physical structure of elephants.
Hippopotamuses are highly territorial animals and can be quite short-tempered. Their territorial behavior has been responsible for many tragic accidents around the world. Because they are herbivores and appear slow-moving when on land, many people assume that hippos are gentle.
Auntie Chuông, the oldest female elephant, slowly continued her story. In 1993, Bô was brought to the zoo from Tanh Linh, Dong Nai, when he was still very young. He was a young elephant who had been left behind by his herd after they moved away from the farmers’ cultivated areas.
Lucky, an old gray wolf, is the only remaining representative of his species living at Saigon Zoo & Botanical Gardens...
Tùng is an animal keeper at Saigon Zoo & Botanical Gardens, where he is responsible for a group of small-sized carnivores in the cat family (Felidae). The largest animals under his care are the leopards, while the smallest are the jungle cats. Every day, Tùng moves swiftly from one enclosure to another, cleaning the facilities, preparing food, and keeping a close eye on the health and well-being of the animals in his care.
On the morning of March 22, 2026, Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens held a program celebrating its 162nd anniversary in a lively and warm atmosphere, with the participation of large numbers of visitors, partner organizations, and especially more than 150 long-time loyal supporters.
To celebrate the 162nd anniversary of Saigon Zoo & Botanical Gardens (March 23, 1864 – March 23, 2026), the zoo will host a birthday celebration featuring a variety of exciting activities, promising visitors a joyful and meaningful experience.
"Bringing students here was absolutely the right choice. They learned a lot about nature and developed stronger awareness of environmental protection."
Teacher
"As a photographer, I found countless stunning angles to capture. The space is thoughtfully designed in harmony between people and nature."
Photographer
"An amazing experience! The lush green space and well-cared-for animals make it a perfect place for the whole family to explore nature together."
Visitor
