Other alternatives for animal fun

Beijing Zoo

The 98-year-old zoo is one of the most popular attractions for both kids and adults, mainly because of its extensive collection of animals from across the world and its convenient location. It chiefly exhibits wild and rare animals from China, such as the panda and the Golden Monkey. It also boasts many animals from around the world, such as polar bears, zebras and kangaroos.

Location: 18 Gaoliangqiao Xiejie, Haidian District.

Open: 7:30 am-4:50 pm

Ticket: 15 yuan (US$1.80) excluding 5 yuan (US$60 cents) for panda hall.

Tel: 6831-4411

Getting there: take subway Line 2 and get off at Xizhimen, take a one-kilometre walk to the west or take a bus heading in the same direction.

Badaling Safari World

Similar to Beijing Wildlife Park, Badaling Safari World also enables the public to see wild animals in natural surroundings, and educates people in caring for them as well as explaining the breeding techniques used. The park is ideal for the whole family to enjoy a visit in complete comfort. Its network of asphalted paths means that you can explore the park in your car.

Along with enjoying the animals and other delights of Safari World, visitors can explore 3.5 km of the Great Wall nearby.

Location: Opposite the Central Park of Badaling Great Wall

Open: 8 am-5 pm (Summer), 9 am-3 pm (Winter)

Ticket: 70 yuan (US$8.40)

Tel: 8208-7951

Getting there: Bus No 919 from Deshengmen or tourist bus No 9 from Xizhimen daily. Alternatively, take tourist buses from Andingmen and Hepingjie Beikou on weekends and holidays, or drive up the Badaling expressway.