Located in Pudong New Area, Shanghai, about 35 kilometers from downtown, Shanghai Wild Animal Park is one of the largest wildlife parks in China and the first national-level wildlife park in the country. Covering an area of approximately 153 hectares, the park is a popular destination for families, animal lovers, and visitors seeking a unique wildlife experience.
Unlike traditional zoos where animals are mainly kept in cages, Shanghai Wild Animal Park recreates natural habitats and allows visitors to observe animals in a more open environment. Visitors can walk through different themed areas or take a special safari bus to explore areas where wild animals roam freely.
Close Encounters with Wildlife
One of the highlights of Shanghai Wild Animal Park is its interactive wildlife experience. Visitors can get close to gentle animals, feed certain non-dangerous species, and learn more about animal protection.
For safety reasons, visitors enter the wild animal zones by special safari buses, while animals such as lions, tigers, and bears move freely in their habitats. This unique design allows visitors to experience the excitement of observing wildlife while maintaining proper protection.
The park is suitable for visitors of all ages, especially families with children.
Animals from Around the World
Shanghai Wild Animal Park is home to more than 200 rare species and over 10,000 animals from around the world, including:
* Giraffes
* Zebras
* White rhinoceroses
* Leopards
* Lions and tigers
* Elephants
* Kangaroos
* Flamingos and other birds
The park also protects many rare Chinese animals, including:
* Giant pandas
* Golden monkeys
* South China tigers
* Asian elephants
These animals provide visitors with an opportunity to learn about global wildlife conservation.
Main Areas of Shanghai Wild Animal Park
The park is divided into two major sections: a walking area and a safari area accessible by bus.
Walking Area
The walking area allows visitors to explore different themed zones at a relaxed pace. Popular attractions include:
* Herbivore Zone
* Animal Kindergarten
* Rare Animal Area
* Bird Paradise
* Aquatic Bird Lake
* Pet Monkey Park
Visitors can observe gentle animals such as kangaroos, deer, lemurs, and colorful birds at close range.
Safari Bus Area: Experience Animals in Their Natural Habitat
The safari bus area is one of the most exciting parts of Shanghai Wild Animal Park. Visitors travel through large open habitats where wild animals move freely around the vehicle.
Here, visitors may see:
* Siberian tigers
* African lions
* Bears
* Zebras
* Antelopes
* Camels
The experience is very different from visiting a traditional zoo because the animals are not displayed behind small enclosures. The safari journey gives visitors a closer understanding of animal behavior and natural living environments.
Animal Performance and Educational Shows
The park features animal performances where trained animals demonstrate their skills and cooperation with their keepers. Visitors can see performances featuring elephants, dogs, monkeys, parrots, and other animals.
There are also special activities such as animal races featuring fast-moving animals like dogs, camels, ostriches, and Mongolian horses.
Baby Animal Area
The Newborn Animal Area is one of the most popular attractions for families. Visitors can see adorable young animals such as:
* Baby leopards
* Tiger cubs
* White tiger cubs
* Lion cubs
The area allows visitors to observe the early stages of animal growth and learn about wildlife breeding and conservation programs.
Wildlife Conservation and Animal Adoption Program
Shanghai Wild Animal Park also participates in wildlife protection programs. Visitors, organizations, and individuals can support animal conservation through the park’s adoption program.
Adopted animals continue living in the park, while donations are used to improve animal care and conservation efforts. The program provides visitors with a meaningful way to support wildlife protection.
Travel Tips for Shanghai Wild Animal Park
* Best for: Families, children, animal lovers, and nature enthusiasts
* Recommended visiting time: Half day to one full day
* Best season to visit: Spring and autumn when the weather is comfortable
* Transportation: Easily accessible from Shanghai city center by public transportation or private transfer
A Must-Visit Wildlife Attraction in Shanghai
Shanghai Wild Animal Park offers a unique combination of wildlife viewing, education, and outdoor adventure. With its large natural habitats, diverse animal species, and interactive experiences, it is one of the best family attractions in Shanghai.
For travelers looking to enjoy a different side of Shanghai beyond skyscrapers and historical landmarks, Shanghai Wild Animal Park is an excellent choice.