San Diego Zoo Admission Ticket

Highlights

• See the Zoo’s 17 Galápagos tortoises at the Discovery Outpost
• Get close to polar bears at the Polar Bear Plunge
• Take a ride on the Skyfari aerial tram
• Watch the sea lion show
• Save 20% by purchasing the two-day pass together as a package

Description

Step into the world-renowned San Diego Zoo, a 100-acre urban oasis home to over 4,500 rare and endangered animals. From lush tropical gardens to expansive naturalistic habitats, the Zoo takes you through some of the planet’s most fascinating ecosystems. Meander along winding paths shaded by exotic plants, where you’ll see animals from all corners of the earth—koalas, Galápagos tortoises, tigers, eagles, flamingos, great apes, and more. Encounter unique species such as Sichuan takins, Buerger’s tree-kangaroos, arctic foxes, pangolins, and Visayan warty pigs, and visit Africa Rocks to discover penguins, baboons, the mysterious fossa, and vibrant weaver birds.

In early 2026, the Zoo unveils its most ambitious project yet: Elephant Valley. This first-of-its-kind experience immerses you in the heart of the African savanna, surrounded by elephants on multiple sides. Walk beside the herd and witness their rich social structure while learning how these ecosystem engineers shape their environment. Elephant Valley reflects Africa’s seasonal rhythms with over 350 rare and endangered plants, including African thorn trees, kokerboom, and Nubian dragon trees—many rescued from illegal trafficking or cultivated by expert horticulturists to recreate the sights, sounds, and scents of the savanna.

At the center of Elephant Valley, Mkutano House offers dining beside a 240,000-gallon watering hole where elephants gather, swim, and play. Nearby, Mkutano Park is a hub for learning, where educators share stories of wildlife and conservation efforts and connect you to the Zoo’s partnerships in Kenya and beyond.

Conservation is woven throughout your visit. The Harry and Grace Steele Elephant Odyssey blends the excitement of a zoo with the discovery of a museum across a 7.5-acre landscape. The Fetter Family Galápagos Tortoise Exhibit introduces the Zoo’s 17 tortoises—sometimes with keeper feedings. At the Conrad Prebys Polar Bear Plunge, crawl into a bear den, climb aboard an Arctic research helicopter, or measure yourself against a polar bear.

Enjoy lively animal presentations, interactive experiences, and encounters with wildlife ambassadors in a festive atmosphere perfect for families and friends. San Diego Zoo supports more than 44 endangered species reintroduced to native habitats, and your visit helps fund global efforts to protect wildlife and wild places for generations to come.

Giant Panda Timed Ticket (Sat/Sun only): Secure a complimentary timed ticket when you arrive by scanning the QR code at the main entrance, selecting an available time, and going to the Timed Ticket line at Denny Sanford Panda Ridge at your designated time (help at Admissions Booths; limited, first come, first served; same-day at the San Diego Zoo only).