Melaka Zoo

Ever thought of visiting a zoological park amidst natural settings and with more then 1,200 species of birds, mammals, reptiles and amphibians?

Well, if that interests you and your family, Melaka Zoo, the second largest zoo in the country situated just 3km from the Ayer Keroh toll (North-South Highway) and approximately 13km from Melaka city centre. This zoo was opened in 1963 and currently boasts of an Open Concept and maintains the natural green environment besides functioning as a center for wildlife research, conservation breeding, zoo education center and a popular tourist destination.

This Zoo which seats on an area of 54 acres, was the first in the region to exhibit the endangered Sumatran rhinocerous and Gaur in addition to the other main attractions i.e. Serow and Malayan Tiger.

In November 2000, a 1.5ha Mini Safari was launched in the center of the park in landscapes featuring man-made ponds, streams, greenery and with animals of 20 species roaming freely in their natural environment. Visitors would walk on platforms above the grounds to view the animals in this Mini Safari.

Night Zoo was introduced since 4th June 2004 and is open to visitors on every Friday, Saturday, Sunday and also on eve of public holiday.

Walking around this Zoo certainly matches the gym workouts and for the less enthusiastic, tram rides is available which do stop at the enclosures of the main attractions. In between the walks, visitors will have the chance to ride on elephants and horses but available only during weekends, public and school holidays.

The huts constructed within the zoo compound are equally much sought after by the visitors to rest their tired legs and A&W Restaurant cafeteria is available to fill up the empty stomach.

Animal shows are a daily affair at the zoo and offers another attraction visitors would not want to miss. While the Orang Utan show is funny, the snake show can prove harrowing to the audience. Beware on where and what you are sitting on!

As a remembrance of this memorable visit, the souvenir shops at the exit sell many memorabilia e.g. key chains, t-shirts, umbrellas, caps and etc. at affordable prices.

It would be half a day gone by just visiting the Melaka Zoo and would be good to rest your tired limbs at a hotel in Melaka before heading back home if you are staying out of Melaka.

However, if you still eager for more fun around Ayer Keroh after the Zoo visit, within the vicinity of the Zoo is the Ayer Keroh Recreational Lake, Crocodile Farm, Orang Asli Museum and Ayer Keroh Recreational Forest.