Attractions6 min read·
Gembira Loka Zoo: Tickets, Rides, and Must-See Animals
Gembira Loka Zoo is Yogyakarta's oldest zoo, home to hundreds of animals and family rides. Here are tickets, hours, and the attractions.
Gembira Loka Zoo is located on Jalan Kebun Raya No. 2, Rejowinangun, Yogyakarta City, about 4 kilometers southeast of Yogyakarta Palace. This zoo is one of the oldest in Indonesia, built on land that was once swamp and urban forest, and has since grown into both a wildlife conservation complex and a lush, tree-covered family recreation park.
A Lake in the Middle of the City, and a Favorite Water Ride
One of Gembira Loka’s standout features, rarely found at other zoos, is a fairly large artificial lake sitting at the center of the complex, complete with pedal boats and water scooters visitors can rent. Rowing across the lake while taking in the lush greenery around it offers a different kind of recreational mood than simply walking past animal enclosures, making it one of the favorite activities for families visiting on weekends.
Beyond the water attractions, a fish-catching pool and fish therapy pool are also popular lighter activities among kids, offering an interactive experience beyond just observing animals from behind a fence.
Diverse Wildlife and Interactive Education Programs
Gembira Loka’s animal collection spans hundreds of species, from large mammals and primates to reptiles and a variety of birds featured in the Gembira Loka Bird Show. The reptile interaction zone lets visitors hold or take photos close to snakes and other reptiles under staff supervision, while regular animal presentation and education sessions offer insight into the behavior and conservation of the zoo’s collection.
Feeding time tends to draw the biggest crowds, since visitors get to watch direct interaction between keepers and animals, something rarely seen outside that scheduled window. Checking the show and feeding time schedule before visiting is well worth it so you don’t miss these moments.
Exploring Nearby Sites in the Heart of the City
- Yogyakarta Palace - about 4 km - The Sultanate’s palace, still inhabited by Sultan Hamengkubuwono X, the center of Yogyakarta’s Philosophical Axis.
- Malioboro & Kilometer Zero - about 4.5 km - The legendary street axis lined with souvenir shops and colonial buildings in the heart of the city.
- Museum Sandi - about 4 km - A unique museum on the history of Indonesian cryptology, in the Kotabaru area.
Final Thoughts
Gembira Loka Zoo offers a combination rarely found in one place: wildlife conservation, water rides, and wide green space right in the middle of Yogyakarta City’s bustle. It’s a fitting spot for a family visit wanting to spend a full day without leaving the city.
FAQ: About Gembira Loka Zoo
How much is admission to Gembira Loka Zoo?
Admission runs around IDR 70,000 on weekdays (Monday-Friday) and IDR 85,000 on weekends and national holidays. Children under 90 cm tall and middle-aged seniors get free admission.
What are Gembira Loka Zoo’s opening hours?
Open daily from 8 AM to 4 PM, making it flexible to visit on both weekdays and weekends.
What rides are available at Gembira Loka Zoo?
Available attractions include a fish-catching pool, fish therapy pool, pedal boats, water scooters, the Gembira Loka Bird Show, reptile interaction, and animal presentation and education sessions including feeding time.