Yunnan Wild Animals Park 云南野生动物园
Photos of Yunnan Wild Animals Park
Presentation of the Yunnan Wild Animals Park
Yunnan Wild Animals Park (云南野生动物园) is one of Yunnan’s largest zoos, located about 15km from Kunming city centre. Nestled in lush, mountainous surroundings near Jindian Mountain (Golden Temple Mountain), the park offers an immersive experience with animals in spacious enclosures that replicate their natural habitat.
Unlike the more traditional Kunming Zoo, the Yunnan Wild Animals Park places greater emphasis on species conservation and animal watching in more natural conditions. The park is a popular destination for families, wildlife enthusiasts and visitors wishing to discover Yunnan’s unique biodiversity in a relaxed setting.
A space dedicated to nature and animal diversity
The park covers a vast area and is home to over 200 animal species, some of which are rare and protected in China. It is home to a wide variety of mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians, including iconic species such as the red panda, the Amur leopard and the Asian elephant, as well as more exotic animals such as giraffes and zebras.
One of the park’s main assets is its semi-natural approach: the animals have vast areas where they can roam freely, far from the traditional cages of zoos. Some areas allow visitors to interact more closely with the animals, particularly in the sections dedicated to herbivores and birds.
The park’s main attractions
The big cat zone
This section of the park is one of the most impressive. It is home to several species of feline, including Siberian tigers, African lions, leopards and black panthers. The design of this area allows these predators to be observed in a more natural setting, with rocks, trees and large areas where they can move freely.
Space for elephants and large mammals
The park is home to several Asian elephants, an emblematic species of Asian fauna. These majestic pachyderms have vast grounds where they can roam freely. The park also educates visitors about the conservation of this endangered species.
The herbivore area
This area is particularly popular with children and families, as it allows them to interact with certain animals. There are giraffes, deer, llamas, zebras and antelopes. Visitors sometimes have the opportunity to feed certain species under the supervision of the animal care staff.
The primate section
The Yunnan Wild Animals Park is home to various species of monkeys and primates, from Yunnan macaques to gibbons and orangutans. These animals are housed in large tree-lined islands where they can climb and move around freely.
The large aviary
An area entirely devoted to birds, where a wide variety of species can be seen, including peacocks, crowned cranes, macaws and parrots. This area is immersive, allowing visitors to walk through a tropical environment where the birds evolve in semi-liberty.
Shows and entertainment
The park regularly puts on shows featuring certain animals, as well as educational demonstrations on wildlife and conservation. However, these shows can sometimes be controversial due to their focus on entertainment rather than animal protection.
Practical information
Address : Near Jindian mountain, Panlong district, Kunming, Yunnan, China.
Access :
- By bus : Several bus routes serve the park from Kunming city centre.
- By taxi : Approximately 30-40 minutes from the city centre.
Opening times :
- Daily: 9am – 5pm (times vary according to season)
- A half-day visit is all you need.
Admission prices :
- Adult: Approximately 100-150 RMB
- Children: Discounts available according to age and height.
- Some specific activities (such as interaction with animals) may require additional charges.
Why visit the Yunnan Wild Animals Park?
- A more natural alternative to traditional zoos: the animals have plenty of space and are not confined to small cages.
- A wide range of animals: local species from Yunnan as well as exotic animals from all over the world (including the chance to see two giant pandas).
- A great way to immerse yourself in nature: the park is located in a green setting, perfect for a getaway from the city.
- An ideal family experience: numerous interactive zones allow children to discover the animals in a fun way.
The Yunnan Wild Animals Park is an excellent choice for animal lovers wishing to discover Chinese and exotic wildlife in a more open and natural environment than traditional zoos. It’s also an ideal outing for families and nature-loving visitors to Kunming.
