Hanoi Zoo, officially known as Thủ Lệ Park (or Công viên Thủ Lệ), is a beloved green lung of the city, combining a zoo, large lake, and small amusement park facilities. It is particularly popular with local families looking for a relaxing day out away from the city’s hustle.
I. Location and History
Official Name: The facility is often called Hanoi Zoo but is contained within the larger Thủ Lệ Park. The name Thủ Lệ is said to derive from the unique, tear-drop shape of the central Linh Lang Lake.
Location: Conveniently situated in the Ba Đình District, about west of the Old Quarter.
History: Construction began shortly after the reunification of Vietnam in , and the park officially opened in . It was founded to house and conserve a wide variety of animals for public education and recreation.
II. The Experience: Zoo and Park Features
The park offers a diverse experience across its area, blending wildlife viewing with recreational spaces.
The Zoo Section: The facility is home to over animals across species, including various mammals, birds, and reptiles. Notable residents often include local and regional species like Indochinese tigers, Asian elephants, and different types of monkeys.
Green Space and Lake: Thủ Lệ Park is a beautiful botanical garden and is centered around the large Linh Lang Lake. Visitors can enjoy shaded walkways, picnic spots, and lush greenery—a rarity in the dense city center.
Recreational Activities: The park includes a small amusement area with various children’s games and rides. Visitors can also rent swan boats for a relaxing paddle on the lake (usually for an additional fee).
III. Practical Visitor Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Address | No. 1 Buổi Street, Ngọc Khánh Ward, Ba Đình District, Hà Nội, Vietnam. |
| Opening Hours | Generally open Daily from 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM (Slight variations between summer/winter). |
| Admission Fee | The fee is usually collected upon entering Thủ Lệ Park, which includes access to the zoo area. |
| Adults: 40,000 VND – 50,000 VND (approx. $1.60 – $2.00 USD) | |
| Children: 20,000 VND – 30,000 VND (varies by height) | |
| Optional Fees | Separate fees apply for rides, swan boat rental, and other amusement park activities. |
| Phone Number | (+84) 24 3766 4337 (Best to rely on online search for current information) |
IV. Traveler's Tips
Go Early: Like many zoos in the tropics, animals are often most active and temperatures are cooler in the morning.
Expect a Local Vibe: This is primarily a public park and zoo for local residents. The facilities and exhibits may be more rustic than modern international zoos, offering a very authentic Vietnamese atmosphere.
Transportation: It’s easily accessible by taxi, Grab (ride-sharing app), or local bus routes (e.g., buses no. 09, 27, 32, 34).
