Xi’an Qinling Wildlife Park Travel Guide: Explore the Best Zoo Experience in Xi’an

Breif Introduction

Located just 28 km south of Xi’an at the scenic foothills of Mt. Qinling, the Qinling Wildlife Park is the first and largest comprehensive wildlife park in Northwest China. Covering more than 320 acres, it is home to over 10,000 animals from more than 300 species, making it a must-visit for families and wildlife lovers. One of the park’s biggest highlights is the chance to encounter the famous “Qinling Four Treasures”: the giant panda, golden snub-nosed monkey, takin, andcrested ibis, all native to this region. Visitors can also see kangaroos, elephants, Bengal and white tigers, sea lions, hippos, and rare bird species across four main zones: the sightseeing area, herbivore zone, predator zone, and bird zone. The sightseeing zone alone houses more than 8,000 animals from 260 species. Families with children will love the walk-through sections to get close to adorable creatures, while adventurous visitors can hop on a safari-style bus that takes you straight into the predator zone for an unforgettable encounter. For those interested in science and education, the herbivore zone offers the chance to observe rare species such as the white-lipped deer, Himalayan tahr, and African gnu, providing an insightful look into global biodiversity. Combined with photo opportunities and seasonal sea lion performances, the park is both entertaining and educational. Whether for a one-day family trip, a weekend getaway with kids, or a deeper science-themed exploration, Qinling Wildlife Park offers adventure, learning, and close encounters with wildlife, all just a short drive from downtown Xi’an.

What to see in Qinling Wildlife Park

Walk-Through Zone: Meet the Stars of Qinling Wildlife Park

The walk-through zone is the heart of Qinling Wildlife Park and a paradise for families, photographers, and anyone who loves getting close to animals. Spread across more than 20 themed pavilions, this section brings you face-to-face with some of the park’s most beloved residents. The giant pandas “Qiangsheng” and “Mengmeng” are the undisputed stars, often lounging lazily while munching on bamboo or rolling around playfully—scenes that make visitors linger with their cameras. Nearby, the red pandas charm with their curious eyes and bushy tails, while the golden snub-nosed monkeys, rare treasures of China’s Qinling Mountains, leap energetically from branch to branch. As you continue your stroll, you’ll spot the elegance of flamingos, the majesty of white tigers, and the sheer power of the hippos. In many areas, visitors can interact directly, feeding the animals under supervision or posing for photos. This interactive, immersive experience makes it feel like you’re part of the natural world, not just an observer.

Drive-Through Zone: A Safari Experience in Xi’an

For those seeking adventure, the drive-through zone is the highlight of Qinling Wildlife Park. Designed like a safari, this area allows you to board a sightseeing bus or feeding vehicle and journey straight into the habitats of wild animals. The herbivore area is a lively landscape where African giraffes stretch their long necks for leaves, zebras graze side by side with wildebeests, and camels lounge lazily in the sun. Adding to the mix are rare Asian species such as the white-lipped deer and yaks, creating a unique combination of creatures from both Africa and Asia in one wide-open environment. But the real thrill comes when you enter the predator zone. Here, more than 30 lions prowl the fields, Siberian tigers rest majestically under the shade, and cheetahs pace with silent elegance. Black bears may approach curiously, giving visitors a spine-tingling yet safe encounter. Inside the bus, you can watch as these powerful animals come astonishingly close, sometimes even circling the vehicles. For the truly brave, the feeding bus lets you offer food through specially designed cages, giving you the unforgettable experience of being “surrounded” by big cats. It’s an adrenaline rush like no other, blending the excitement of adventure with the safety of modern zoo design.

Bird Paradise: Step into a World of Color and Song

After the excitement of the predators, the Bird Paradise offers a refreshing change of pace. Known as one of the largest aviaries in China, this area features a vast lake surrounded by lush greenery, where graceful black swans glide peacefully alongside red-crowned cranes and flamboyant flamingos. Walking through the aviary feels like stepping into another world colorful birds swoop above your head, exotic calls echo through the trees, and every corner reveals a new feathered wonder. The harmony of so many species living together makes this section both tranquil and magical. What makes the Bird Paradise especially enchanting is the sense of freedom and interaction it provides. Instead of being separated by cages, many of the birds roam freely, giving visitors the unique chance to observe their natural behaviors up close whether it’s flamingos performing their elegant group dances, cranes spreading their wings in a graceful display, or parrots playfully calling out to passersby. In spring and summer, the aviary is filled with nesting activity, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot chicks learning to fly. It’s an ideal spot to slow down, take photos, and soak in the natural beauty of Qinling. For children, the Bird Paradise is often a highlight, offering a colorful and lively environment that feels more like stepping into a storybook than visiting a zoo. Families can spend time here relaxing by the lake, feeding certain bird species under staff guidance, and simply enjoying the harmony of nature. Whether you’re a bird enthusiast or just someone looking for a peaceful moment during your adventure, this part of the park is a must-see.

Travel Guide

Admission Fee: CNY 100 ( Mar.- Nov.)
                        CNY 80 (Dec.-Feb)

Location
Address: Xi’an Qinling Wild Animal Zoo, Luanzhen Street, Chang’an District, Xi’an, Shaanxi Province
Situated just 28 km south of Xi’an downtown at the foot of the Qinling Mountains, the zoo is the largest wildlife park in Northwest China and one of the most popular family-friendly attractions near the city.

Opening Hours
Daily: 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM
Last Entry: 5:30 PM
It’s best to arrive early in the morning to catch the animals when they are most active, and to leave enough time to explore the different themed zones.

How to get to Qinling Wildl Animal Zoo

By Car / Self-Driving
Qinling Wild Animal Zoo is located about 28 km south of Xi’an downtown, at the foot of the Qinling Mountains. If you are driving, it takes roughly 40–50 minutes from the city center depending on traffic. The most common route is via G65 Baotou-Maoming Expressway or Ring Expressway, and clear signs along the way will guide you to the zoo entrance. Parking is available on-site for a reasonable fee, making self-driving the most flexible choice for families or groups.

By Public Bus
Visitors can also reach the zoo by public bus. From Xiaozhai Bus Station or South Gate (Nanmen), you can take Bus No. 320 or Tourist Bus Line 5, both of which have direct stops at Qinling Wild Animal Zoo. The journey usually takes about 1.5 hours, depending on traffic. This option is budget-friendly but might be less convenient for travelers with children or those on a tight schedule.

By Metro and Transfer
Take Xi’an Metro Line 2 to Weiqunan Station, the southernmost stop of the line. From there, you can transfer to a local taxi, ride-hailing car (like Didi), or a connecting bus heading towards the zoo. The combined journey is about 1 hour, offering a balance between speed and cost.

By Taxi / Ride-Hailing (Didi)
For convenience and comfort, you can take a taxi or book a Didi (China’s Uber) directly from downtown Xi’an. The ride usually takes 40–50 minutes and costs around 80–120 RMB one way, depending on traffic and starting point. This is a great option for families or travelers who prefer door-to-door service without the hassle of bus transfers.

By Private Car / Tour Service
If you prefer a hassle-free experience, you can book a private transfer or day tour that includes transportation, entrance tickets, and sometimes even a guide. This option is especially recommended for international travelers who want to combine a visit to Qinling Wild Animal Zoo with nearby attractions like Mount Cuihua or Louguantai Temple in a single day.

Qinling Wild Animal Park Tour: A Full-Day Adventure to See Giant Pandas and More on Your 1 Day Xian Tour

If you have a full day to spare in Xi’an and a love for animals, the Qinling Wild Animal Park is the perfect destination. Located just 28 kilometers south of downtown Xi’an, this expansive wildlife park is home to over 10,000 animals across more than 300 species, including giant pandas, red pandas, white tigers, elephants, and flamingos. Your day begins in the walking area, where you can get up close to pandas, red pandas, golden monkeys, and hippos. Interactive experiences like feeding the animals and taking photos make it especially fun for families and animal enthusiasts. Next, hop on a guided safari bus to explore the herbivore and predator zones, where giraffes, zebras, Himalayan tahr, African lions, and Northeast tigers roam in spacious habitats. The thrill of watching predators from a safe distance adds an unforgettable adventure element to the day. Finally, wind down in the Bird Paradise, one of China’s largest aviaries. Here, black swans, red-crowned cranes, and flamingos coexist in a serene lake setting, offering a peaceful contrast to the excitement of the safari zones. Stroll along the paths, take photos, and enjoy the beauty of birds in a naturalistic environment. This tour is ideal for visitors who want to spend a day immersed in wildlife, enjoy interactive animal experiences, and explore one of Xi’an’s top family-friendly attractions. Whether you’re traveling with kids, friends, or as an animal lover, the Qinling Wild Animal Park promises a day full of fun, discovery, and memorable encounters with nature.

Xian Panda Tour for Nature Lovers: Where Wildlife Meets Ancient Wisdom 

This specially curated tour is ideal for travelers who love animals and are eager to explore China’s unique wildlife while experiencing its rich cultural heritage. Begin your day at the Qinling Science Park of Rare Animals, a sanctuary for the rare brown panda “Qi Zai” as well as other fascinating species like red pandas, golden monkeys, and exotic birds. The park is designed for both walking and interactive experiences, allowing you to observe these incredible creatures up close and learn about their behaviors, habitats, and conservation efforts. Kids and adults alike will be captivated by the opportunity to see pandas in their naturalistic enclosures and enjoy memorable photo moments. After a morning surrounded by wildlife, continue to Louguantai, one of Xi’an’s most important Taoist temples and a spiritual center with over a thousand years of history. Wander through serene courtyards, ancient halls, and sacred spaces, absorbing the peaceful atmosphere and learning about Taoist philosophy and practices. Your guide will share stories of legendary monks, the temple’s historical significance, and its influence on Chinese culture, providing a fascinating cultural and spiritual context to complement the wildlife experience. This tour strikes a perfect balance between nature and culture, offering a full day of exploration for animal lovers, photography enthusiasts, and travelers curious about Taoist traditions. Whether you are marveling at the playful pandas or soaking in the calm of Louguantai, this tour promises a deeply enriching and memorable Xi’an experience.