National Zoo

See tigers, native orangutans and animals from around the world at Malaysia’s biggest zoo.

The National Zoo occupies 110 acres (45 hectares) in outer Kuala Lumpur and is home to over 5,000 animals from more than 400 different species. There are tigers, elephants, birds, bears and primates native to Malaysia. You’ll also find animals from around the world, including kangaroos, penguins, giraffes and hippopotamuses.

Check out the Cat Walk to see African lions and Bengal and Malaysian tigers. This lush exhibit, designed to simulate the felines’ natural habitat, features a pool where they can swim and play. The African Savannah is another well-planned exhibit that puts together various animals in one massive enclosure. You’ll get nice views of rare white rhinos, towering giraffes, antelope and zebras in their natural environment of forests and grassy plains.

There’s plenty to do for an entire day at this expansive zoo. Make your way to the Australian Plains to find wallabies, pademelons, kangaroos and emus. Head over to the nearby Bird Aviary to look at colourful species from around the globe or check out the Humboldt Penguin enclosure where you can watch the feisty birds dive for food at 11 a.m. each day.

Spot leopards, pumas and striped hyenas at Mammal Kingdom. There are also capybaras from South America and native binturongs. Drop by the Ape Centre to see chimpanzees and orangutans climb and socialize up in the trees. Keep exploring the zoo to find a family of Nile hippopotamuses along with snakes, crocodiles, amphibians and insects of all kinds.

There are fun kid-oriented activities, including photo shoots with selected animals and a twice-daily show that features sea lions, macaque monkeys and macaws.

The National Zoo is in Ulu Klang, about 13 miles (21 kilometres) from downtown Kuala Lumpur. It’s accessible by public transport from most parts of the city and there’s also pay parking. The zoo is open every day of the year except major religious and cultural holidays. There is an admission fee.