The 1 Biggest Zoo in Kota Kinabalu

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Malaysia, renowned for its diverse wildlife, boasts an impressive array of zoos, housing exotic species from around the globe. Among them, five stand out as the largest, offering visitors a captivating glimpse into the animal kingdom.

  • **Zoo Negara Malaysia** (Kuala Lumpur): Spread over 110 acres, Zoo Negara is the oldest and largest zoo in the country. It is home to over 5,137 animals representing 476 species, including Malayan tigers, Asian elephants, and orangutans.
  • **Melaka Zoo** (Melaka): Established in 1963, Melaka Zoo is the second largest zoo in Malaysia. Situated on 54 acres, it houses around 2,000 animals from 214 species, with a focus on reptile and bird exhibits.
  • **Sunway Lagoon Wildlife Park** (Selangor): Located within the Sunway Lagoon theme park, this wildlife park spans 80 acres. It features over 1,500 animals from 150 species, including gray wolves, white rhinos, and meerkats.
  • **Taiping Zoo** (Perak): Established in 1961, Taiping Zoo is the fourth largest zoo in Malaysia. Situated on 34 acres, it houses over 1,300 animals from 180 species, with a notable collection of Sumatran tigers and Malayan sun bears.
  • **Aquaria KLCC** (Kuala Lumpur): While not strictly a zoo, Aquaria KLCC is the largest aquarium in Southeast Asia. Spanning 60,000 square feet, it exhibits over 5,000 aquatic animals from 250 species, including sharks, penguins, and sea turtles.
  • Lok Kawi Wildlife Park in Kota Kinabalu
    Lok Kawi Wildlife Park in Kota Kinabalu

    The Biggest Zoo near Kota Kinabalu

    Lok Kawi Wildlife Park

    • Address: Lok kawi Putatan, 88200 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
    • Map: Click here
    • Rating: 4.1 (3712)
    • Phone: +60 88-765 793
    • Website:
    • Opening hours:
      Monday: 9:30 AM – 1:00 PM, 2:00 – 4:30 PM
      Tuesday: 9:30 AM – 1:00 PM, 2:00 – 4:30 PM
      Wednesday: 9:30 AM – 1:00 PM, 2:00 – 4:30 PM
      Thursday: 9:30 AM – 1:00 PM, 2:00 – 4:30 PM
      Friday: 9:30 AM – 1:00 PM, 2:00 – 4:30 PM
      Saturday: 9:30 AM – 1:00 PM, 2:00 – 4:30 PM
      Sunday: 9:30 AM – 1:00 PM, 2:00 – 4:30 PM
    • Reviews:
      Yu Chu Chin✭✭✭✭
      a month ago
      The zoo offers a diverse range of wildlife, providing visitors with a chance to see both native and exotic species. However, some areas might benefit from additional enrichment for the animals and renovations of the park. Overall, it’s a family-friendly destination with a focus on conservation and awareness. Do bring mosquito repellents and extra clothes (sweaty day) when planning a visit, alongside tickets can be bought on the spot.
      Pamela Merchant✭✭✭✭✭
      a month ago
      Great place to bring kids to learn about animals. The show is amazing. Friendly and professional staff. I’d give it 8/10. Just a heads up, might wanna bring extra cash because they do not accept online banking payment. Strictly only cash.
      Vanessa Stephens✭✭✭✭✭
      a month ago
      I quite liked it… The animal show was cute but I suggest coming earlier in the morning before the morning show so that you can go back after the show ends because it gets very hot. If coming in the afternoon, it’s better to watch the show first and walk around later… I came with low expectations and was pleasantly surprised… The animals get quite sleepy at midday too so maybe they are more active early in the morning and late afternoon… The staff are quite dedicated to their jobs.
      Jamie Lai✭✭✭✭✭
      2 months ago
      Feel impressed with this mini wild park. It is small but enough for family with young children to spend half a day there.

      They have many animals like tiger, proboscis monkeys, elephants, otters and etc. We took photos with a 10kg python.

      Nice clean park.

      Roy Muir✭✭✭✭✭
      a month ago
      A great park! The animals are all very well cared for and the guides very informative and knowledgeable. I’m not generally a fan of zoos and wildlife parks but this one is an exception. Well worth a half day visit.
    Lok Kawi Wildlife Park in Kota Kinabalu
    Lok Kawi Wildlife Park in Kota Kinabalu

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    Top Zoo Alternatives in Kota Kinabalu

    The National Zoo (Malay: Zoo Negara) is a Malaysian zoo located on 110 acres (45 ha) of land in Ulu Klang, Gombak District, Selangor, Malaysia. It was officially opened on November 14, 1963, by the country's first prime minister, Tunku Abdul Rahman. The zoo is managed by a non-governmental organization known as the Malaysian Zoological Society and is home to 5,137 animals of 476 different species. It received MS ISO 9001:2008 certification in July 2007 and is a member of the South East Asian Zoos Association (SEAZA). The president and chairman of the zoo is Y. Bhg. Dato' Ismail Hutson.

    The Biggest Zoo in Malaysia

    While Kota Kinabalu does not have a traditional zoo, there are three popular alternatives that provide unique opportunities to see and interact with wildlife in their natural habitats:

    • Diving and Snorkeling in Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park
    • Proboscis Monkey River Cruise in Klias Wetlands
    • Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre

    The Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park is a popular destination for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts, offering the chance to see a variety of marine life including colorful coral reefs, tropical fish, and even sea turtles. The park is made up of five islands, each with their own unique underwater ecosystems to explore.

    The Proboscis Monkey River Cruise in Klias Wetlands is a fantastic opportunity to see one of Borneo’s most iconic and unique animals in their natural habitat. As you cruise along the river at sunset, keep your eyes peeled for proboscis monkeys, as well as other wildlife such as macaques, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species.

    The Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre is dedicated to the protection and rehabilitation of Borneo’s sun bears, the world’s smallest bear species. Visitors to the centre can learn about these fascinating animals and their conservation efforts, as well as observe the bears up close in their forest enclosures.

    Thank you for taking the time to read our article. For more in-depth reviews and comprehensive ratings on the Zoo spots, please explore the recommended articles listed below.

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