Guangzhou Chimelong Safari Park

When it comes to wildlife encounters in China, Guangzhou Chimelong Safari Park definitely earns its reputation as one of the best. While I haven’t experienced it firsthand, reviews and detailed descriptions show this park offers a remarkable blend of wildlife, attractions, and entertainment that appeals to families, animal lovers, and adventure seekers alike.

What makes this tour stand out are the stunning animal encounters, such as the sight of pandas, koalas, and elephants walking alongside visitors, the train and cable car rides offering panoramic views of the park, and the value for money — especially considering the extensive animal populations and the park’s size. Plus, the informative guides and well-organized layout enhance the experience.

One possible consideration is the fact that certain services, like guided tours or animal feeding, are not included in the base ticket price. Visitors should plan for extra costs if they want to maximize their experience.

This tour is ideal for those looking for an affordable yet immersive wildlife adventure, especially families, animal enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a day of fun and learning in a well-maintained environment.

Key Points

• Large and diverse animal collection including pandas, koalas, elephants, and more than 20,000 animals.
• Visitor-friendly features like train rides and cable cars that provide great views and easy park navigation.
• Affordable price point that offers good value considering the variety of animals and attractions included.
• Self-guided experience, with optional guided tours and extra activities available for additional costs.
• Ideal for families and wildlife lovers seeking an authentic safari experience in China.
• Park hours and booking lead time make planning straightforward for most travelers.

What is Guangzhou Chimelong Safari Park?

Guangzhou Chimelong Safari Park, also known as Chimelong Wildlife World, is a sprawling wildlife park covering over 2000 mu (roughly 1.3 square miles). It’s located within the Guangzhou Chimelong Tourism Resort, which is a major destination for theme parks and entertainment. Since opening in 1997, it’s become one of the largest private wildlife parks in China and is recognized by the World Zoo Organization as a “world-class wildlife park”.

What makes this park particularly appealing is its focus on large-scale wildlife conservation and naturalistic habitats, giving visitors a chance to see animals in settings that resemble their natural environments. Its extensive collection includes more than 10 giant pandas, including the rare triplets Meng Meng, Shuai Shuai, and Cool, as well as 7 generations of Australian koalas—the largest population outside Australia. Other national treasures like Malaysia’s yellow orangutans, Thailand’s Asian elephants, and Honduras’s aardvarks add to the global mix.

The Experience: What’s Included and What’s Not

The ticket for this experience, priced at $79 per person, grants access to the entire park and admission to Chimelong Wildlife World. It’s a day-long adventure that, on paper, offers a comprehensive look at both the animal exhibits and some of the park’s attractions.

However, it’s important to understand that guided tours, animal feeding activities, and certain rides or services are not included in the basic ticket. These extras might be tempting, especially since reviews mention exceptional guided experiences and views, but they come at an additional cost.

The park operates from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM daily, providing ample time to explore at a relaxed pace. For visitors arriving in Guangzhou, the park’s proximity to public transportation makes it fairly accessible, which is a big plus for planning your day.

How the Itinerary Unfolds

Starting at the park itself, you’ll likely arrive early to beat the crowds and enjoy a full day of sights and activities. While the tour description doesn’t specify a detailed schedule, the main highlights include:

Chimelong Safari Park:
This is the core of your visit. Open since 1997, it’s known for its large animal populations and spacious habitats. Visitors love the experience of seeing animals like pandas, koalas, and elephants walking nearby, which feels remarkably authentic. One reviewer emphasized, “You get to experience animals walking beside you just like a real safari,” which is a testament to the park’s immersive layout.

The park is divided into different themed zones, each showcasing various species and ecosystems. The large-scale primate habitats are home to Malaysia’s yellow orangutans, while the pandas are a highlight, especially given their rarity and the fact that the park hosts more than 10 giant pandas.

Train and Cable Car Rides:
One of the notable features (and highly praised by visitors) is the train ride that circles the park, providing an overview of the entire grounds. A reviewer happily notes, “There is a train and a cable car you can take with amazing views,” which adds a layer of excitement and convenient transport, especially if you’re trying to cover the vast territory in one day.

The cable car offers spectacular aerial views of the animal enclosures and scenic surroundings, making it ideal for snapping photos or simply enjoying the landscape.

Animal Encounters and Other Attractions:
While some experiences like animal feeding are not included in the standard ticket, many visitors find that the park’s layout and exhibits offer plenty of walkable, engaging experiences. The park also boasts a primitive ecology section, which mimics subtropical rainforest habitats, giving visitors a sense of walking through a natural ecosystem.

What Makes This Park Stand Out?

Authentic Wildlife Encounters:
Unlike zoos that feel overly commercialized, Chimelong Safari Park emphasizes large, naturalistic habitats. The experience of seeing over 20,000 animals, including iconic species like pandas and koalas, makes it feel like a true safari experience, just in China.

Kid-Friendly and Family-Oriented:
The park’s size and variety mean it’s suitable for all ages. Kids will delight in seeing animals like Asian elephants and aardvarks, while adults can appreciate the conservation efforts behind these collections.

Efficient Transport Options:
The inclusion of train and cable car rides sets this park apart. These attractions offer stunning vistas and make exploring the large grounds manageable, especially if you’re short on time or visiting with children.

Value for Money:
At just $79, this ticket provides access to a world-class wildlife park, which many reviewers consider a good deal given the variety of animals, attractions, and the park’s size. Additional services, like guided tours or animal feeding, are optional but can enhance the experience — worth considering if you want a more in-depth visit.

Insights from Reviews

A visitor described the park as “Incredible,” emphasizing the train and cable car rides and how these afford amazing views while experiencing animals in a setting that mimics their natural habitats. This review highlights the park’s strength in offering both education and entertainment.

Another reviewer warned against private car tours outside the park, noting that your ticket includes a “cool little train ride”—a reminder that the park’s own transportation options are efficient and free with entry, so avoid unnecessary extra costs.

The mention of delicious food and tapas by some visitors underscores that the park also caters well to visitors’ dining needs, making it easier to spend a full day comfortably.

Practical Tips for Visiting Guangzhou Chimelong Safari Park

• Plan ahead and book your tickets at least 23 days in advance to secure your spot and avoid last-minute disappointment.
• Arrive early to maximize your day and skip potential crowds.
• Consider buying optional guided tours or animal feeding experiences if you want to deepen your connection with the animals.
• Take advantage of the train and cable car rides — they’re included in the ticket price and provide fantastic views.
• Wear comfortable shoes — the park covers a large area, and walking is the main mode of exploration.
• Bring sunscreen and water, especially if visiting in summer, as outdoor exhibits can get hot.
• Check the park hours and plan your day accordingly; late afternoons can be less crowded.
• If you’re interested in souvenirs, there are commemorative coins and photos available for purchase.
• For families, stroller and wheelchair services are available, but these are not included in the basic ticket.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for families seeking a family-friendly adventure, wildlife enthusiasts eager to see pandas and koalas, and travelers looking for value-packed day trips. The park’s extensive collection and attractions suit those wanting immersive animal encounters without the expense of more exclusive safaris elsewhere.

People who appreciate well-organized outdoor spaces with easy transportation options will find this tour particularly convenient. However, if you’re seeking a guided, all-inclusive experience with animal feeding and behind-the-scenes access, you may need to look into additional services.

FAQ About Guangzhou Chimelong Safari Park

Is the ticket price all I need to pay?
The $79 ticket covers entry to the park and your access to main attractions, including the train and cable car rides. Extra services such as guided tours, animal feeding, and souvenirs are not included and cost extra.

What are the park’s opening hours?
The park is open daily from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM. Planning your visit during these hours will give you plenty of time to explore.

How far in advance should I book my tickets?
Most travelers tend to book around 23 days ahead to secure their spot, especially during peak seasons or weekends.

Can I visit with a stroller or wheelchair?
Yes, the park offers stroller and wheelchair services. Keep in mind these are not included in the ticket price, so you may need to pay extra if you require them.

Is there parking available?
While parking details aren’t specified in the data, the park’s proximity to public transportation suggests that arriving via metro or bus might be easiest.

Are guided tours available?
Guided tours are not included in the basic ticket, but they can be booked separately to enhance your experience.

What’s the main attraction?
The large animal population, including pandas and koalas, along with the train and cable car rides offering scenic views, are key highlights.

Are there food options inside?
Yes, the park has restaurants and snack options, making it easier to spend a full day without leaving.

Is the experience suitable for children?
Absolutely. The park’s size, animal exhibits, and transport options make it ideal for families with kids.

Final Thoughts

Guangzhou Chimelong Safari Park offers a remarkable opportunity to see a wide variety of animals in naturalistic settings, with the added thrill of train and cable car rides for panoramic views. The value for money is notable, especially given the extensive animal collection and the park’s size.

Whether you’re a family wanting a fun day out, an animal lover keen to see pandas and koalas up close, or a traveler seeking an easy, enriching activity, this park delivers. Just remember to plan ahead, consider extra costs for guided experiences, and wear comfortable shoes.

If you’re in Guangzhou and looking for a day of wildlife and adventure that balances ease, affordability, and authenticity, this safari park is a solid choice. It promises memorable moments and a chance to learn about global wildlife—all in one exciting, accessible location.