White Rhinoceros Ceratotherium simum
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.
Crocodile Garden
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.
Ny the Elephant
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.
Ca the Hippopotamus
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.
Bô the Elephant
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, the Old Gray Wolf
Lucky, an old gray wolf, is the only remaining representative of his species living at Saigon Zoo & Botanical Gardens...
Tùng and His Big Cats
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.
A Vibrant 162nd Birthday Celebration at Saigon Zoo: Spreading Love from the City’s "Green Heart"
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.
Saigon Zoo & Botanical Gardens Marks 162 Years with a Special Anniversary Celebration
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.
Saigon Zoo & Botanical Gardens: 160 Years of Childhood Memories in the City
Published to mark the 160th anniversary of Saigon Zoo & Botanical Gardens, Saigon Zoo & Botanical Gardens: A Treasure in the Heart of the City and the Amazing Nature book series celebrate one of the city’s most beloved green spaces.
A FESTIVE LUNAR NEW YEAR CELEBRATION AT SAIGON ZOO & BOTANICAL GARDENS
(From the 1st to the 6th day of Lunar New Year 2026) Lunar New Year is a special time for families to come together, relax, and enjoy nature. To celebrate Lunar New Year 2026, Saigon Zoo & Botanical Gardens is delighted to present a lively series of festive activities filled with color, joy, and seasonal charm, promising memorable experiences from the very first days of the new year.
CHUÔNG – THE BELOVED ELDER ASIAN ELEPHANT
A Keeper of Memories Across Generations The Elderly Elephant Chuông (Elephas maximus) has lived at Saigon Zoo & Botanical Gardens for many years. For many visitors, she is more than just an animal. Parents often bring their children here and smile as they say, “We used to take photos with that old elephant when we were young.”
