Edinburgh Zoo

Overview

Edinburgh Zoo is Scotland's most visited paid wildlife attraction, home to over 1,000 animals across 82 acres of hillside in the west of the city. It is particularly famous for its giant pandas, penguins, and conservation breeding programs.

Highlights

• The Penguin Parade: A daily procession of Gentoo penguins waddling freely along the zoo's pathways — one of Edinburgh's most beloved traditions (seasonal, weather-dependent).
• The Koalas: Edinburgh Zoo is one of the very few UK zoos to house Queensland koalas.
• The Hilltop Safari: The steep hillside setting means the upper enclosures offer panoramic views across Edinburgh — one of very few zoos with a built-in viewpoint.

History

Founded in 1913 by the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland, it was the first zoo in the world to house and breed penguins (1919) and the first in the UK to receive giant pandas on loan from China (2011).

Visitor Tips

• Wear Good Shoes: The zoo is built on a steep hillside — comfortable footwear is essential. The free safari bus runs up the steepest section.
• Penguin Parade Timing: Check the website for daily parade times — it typically happens in the early afternoon, weather permitting.
• Duration: 2.5–3 hours.