Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens 🇻🇳

Located on Nguyen Binh Khiem Street in District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, the Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens (Thảo Cầm Viên Sài Gòn) is Vietnam's largest zoo and botanical garden. Commissioned in 1864 by Admiral Pierre-Paul de La Grandière and opened to the public in 1869, it stands as one of the world's oldest continuously operating zoos. You can explore a diverse setting that houses 590 animals across 125 species and 1,830 trees and plants—some over a century old.

As you wander the grounds, you will discover an animal conservation area, plant conservation area, orchid garden, and an amusement park. Animal exhibits feature white Bengal tigers, clouded leopards, giraffes, African lions, and free-roaming bird habitats at Lotus Island. You can also visit the Fauna and Flora Museum to view taxidermy and skeletal specimens.

Additionally, the grounds house the Ho Chi Minh City Museum of History—home to roughly 25,000 historical artifacts and French colonial-era weapons—alongside the historic Temple of Hùng King. Attracting over two million visitors annually, it offers a fascinating look into Southeast Asian fauna, flora, and culture.

What to see at Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens

• Vietnam's largest zoo and botanical garden, operating continuously since 1869
• Features 590 animals, including white Bengal tigers, clouded leopards, and flamingos
• Houses 1,830 trees and plants with rare orchids, cacti, and bonsai collections
• Includes the Ho Chi Minh City Museum of History and the historic Temple of Hùng King
• Home to a dedicated Fauna and Flora Museum displaying zoological specimens

Visiting tips

Be sure to stop by Lotus Island to see free-roaming birds, lakes filled with lotuses, and various fish species.

How long: 2-3 hours · Best time: Early morning

How to get there & what’s nearby

Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens is easy to reach on Ho Chi Minh City’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica and Saigon Opera House. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Ho Chi Minh City travel guide.