Guangzhou Zoo (广州动物园)

Guangzhou Zoo (广州动物园) opened in 1958 and is the oldest public zoo in Guangdong, home to over 450 species including giant pandas, African giraffes, hippopotamuses, and a large reptile house. It lacks the showmanship of Chimelong Safari Park but offers a more relaxed, old-world charm beloved by local families — shaded paths, elderly keepers with decades of experience, and no performative shows. Adult tickets are just CNY 15 (approx. HKD 16); children under 1.2m enter free. TripAdvisor reviewers praise the "unhurried, authentic zoo experience" and particularly recommend the giant panda house (feeding times 9-10am). Located near Tianhe District, 3 stops from Guangzhou East HSR station.