Chimelong Safari Park Travel Guide for First-Time International Visitors

Table of Contents

  1. About Chimelong Safari Park
  2. Essential Information
  3. Transportation Guide
  4. Ticket Information & Pricing
  5. Must-See Attractions
  6. Sample Itineraries
  7. Dining Options
  8. Insider Tips
  9. FAQ

About Chimelong Safari Park

Chimelong Safari Park (长隆野生动物世界) is one of the world’s largest safari parks, located in Guangzhou’s Panyu District. Spanning over 800 hectares, it’s home to more than 20,000 animals representing over 500 species. As China’s only 5A-rated wildlife park, it offers a unique blend of African safari experiences and Asian wildlife encounters.

Safari park map

What Makes It Special:

  • One of the largest koala populations outside Australia (50+ koalas)
  • Famous white tiger breeding center
  • 10+ giant pandas and red pandas
  • Drive-through safari experience with free-roaming animals
  • Aerial cable car system for panoramic views

Essential Information (2025)

Information TypeDetails
Address299 Hanxi Avenue East, Panyu District, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province
Opening HoursMonday-Friday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM
Saturday-Sunday: 9:30 AM – 6:30 PM
Last admission: 4:00 PM
Recommended DurationFull day (6-8 hours)
Best Time to VisitSpring (March-May) or Autumn (September-November)
Weekdays to avoid crowds
Language SupportChinese (primary), Limited English signage
Download Chimelong app for English navigation
Payment MethodsWeChat Pay, Alipay, UnionPay, Cash (RMB)
Limited credit card acceptance

Transportation Guide

Transportation to Chimelong

From Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport

MethodDurationCostInstructions
Metro (Recommended)60-70 minutes¥10-151. Take Airport Express to Jiahewanggang Station
2. Transfer to Metro Line 3 (toward Panyu Square)
3. Alight at Hanxi Changlong Station (Exit E or D)
4. Take free shuttle bus to park entrance
Airport Shuttle70-90 minutes¥30-40Direct bus to Chimelong area (check airport shuttle desk)
Taxi/Ride-share50-60 minutes¥150-180Use Didi app or airport taxi stand

From Guangzhou South Railway Station

MethodDurationCostInstructions
Metro (Best Option)15-20 minutes¥3-51. Take Metro Line 7 directly to Hanxi Changlong Station
2. Exit E or D
3. Free shuttle bus to park (5 minutes)
Express Bus25-30 minutes¥10-15From East Gate, buses run 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM every 30 minutes
Taxi/Ride-share20 minutes¥40-50Direct to park entrance

From Downtown Guangzhou

MethodDurationCostInstructions
Metro30-45 minutes¥5-8Take Line 3 or Line 7 to Hanxi Changlong Station + free shuttle
Bus45-60 minutes¥2-5Routes: 129, 303A, Pan 160 to Chimelong Resort
Taxi30-40 minutes¥30-50From city center (e.g., Beijing Road, Tianhe)

Pro Tip: The free shuttle bus runs between Hanxi Changlong Metro Station and all Chimelong attractions every 10-15 minutes from 9:00 AM to park closing.

Ticket Information & Pricing (2025)

Standard Admission Prices

Ticket TypeRegular Days (Weekdays)Special Days (Weekends/Holidays)Eligibility
Adult¥300 (~$42 USD)¥350 (~$49 USD)Ages 18+ or height >1.5m
Youth¥240 (~$34 USD)¥280 (~$39 USD)Ages 12-17 and height >1.5m
Child¥210 (~$29 USD)¥245 (~$34 USD)Ages 3-12 or height 1.0m-1.5m
Senior¥210 (~$29 USD)¥245 (~$34 USD)Ages 65+ (ID required)
ToddlerFREEFREEUnder 3 years or height <1.0m (1 free child per adult)

Included in Admission:

  • Safari train ride
  • All walking zones and animal exhibits
  • Animal shows and performances
  • 4D cinema

Add-On Experiences

ExperiencePriceDetails
Multi-Attraction Fast Pass¥280 (~$39 USD)Includes: Cable car (all routes), Safari train priority, 4D cinema priority
Single-Attraction Fast Pass¥100 (~$14 USD)Choose one: Safari train OR Cable car OR 4D cinema
Giraffe Feeding¥30-50Regular days ¥30, holidays ¥50 (branches provided)
Parrot Feeding¥20At Qinglong Mountain area, hourly sessions
Night Safari¥200-250Separate ticket, select days only (check availability)

Where to Buy Tickets

PlatformBenefitsNotes
Official WebsiteDirect booking, sometimes early-bird discountsChinese website, may need translation
Trip.comEnglish interface, 5-10% discountInstant confirmation, show QR code at gate
KlookInternational payment, bundle dealsOften includes hotel packages
KKdayMulti-park passes availableGood for visiting multiple Chimelong attractions
Park GateSame-day purchaseHigher price, possible queue during peak times

Money-Saving Tips:

  • Book online 1-3 days in advance for 10-15% discount
  • Visit on weekdays for lower prices and smaller crowds
  • Combo tickets with Chimelong Hotel or other parks offer better value
  • Check for seasonal promotions (January, September)

Must-See Attractions & Animal Zones

Top 10 Must-See Animals

RankAnimalLocationBest Time to VisitWhy Special
1Giant PandasPanda Paradise9:30-11:00 AM (feeding time)10+ pandas including babies, rare outside Sichuan
2White TigersWhite Tiger HillThroughout day (shows every 30 min)World’s largest white tiger population, diving shows
3KoalasKoala Garden8:00-10:00 AM or 4:00-5:30 PM50+ koalas, largest group outside Australia
4African ElephantsElephant Valley10:00 AM & 3:00 PM (show times)Free-roaming herd, elephant performances
5GiraffesGiraffe PlazaAnytime (feeding 10:00 AM-4:00 PM)Hand-feeding experience available
6Golden MonkeysQinglong MountainMorning (more active)Endangered Chinese endemic species
7African LionsPredator Zone (Safari)Early morning or late afternoonView from safari train, natural habitat setting
8FlamingosFlamingo IslandAfternoon (best light for photos)Large flock, stunning pink coloration
9ChimpanzeesRainforest Adventure11:00 AM-2:00 PM (most active)Interactive behaviors, family groups
10Red PandasPanda ParadiseMorning (cooler temperatures)Playful and photogenic, tree climbing

Key Experiences & Shows

ExperienceDurationScheduleCapacity Tips
Safari Train (Must-Do)40-50 minutesContinuous, 10-15 min intervalsSit on RIGHT side for best views. Go early (9:30-10:30 AM) or late (4:00-5:00 PM) to avoid peak crowds
Cable Car System30-40 minutes (full route)Continuous operationThree routes available: African Savanna, Swan Lake, Circular. Buy fast pass if visiting on weekends
White Tiger Diving Show15 minutesEvery 30 minutesArrive 10 min early for good seats. Multi-level viewing areas
Elephant Performance20-25 minutes10:00 AM, 12:30 PM, 3:00 PMFamily-friendly, educational. Elephant Theatre near South Gate
Parrot Show15 minutesHourly (check daily schedule)At Qinglong Mountain. Interactive, audience participation
4D Cinema12-15 minutesEvery 30 minutesNear South Gate. Sensory effects, great for breaks
Animal Parade20 minutes1-2 times daily (main pathways)Check app/signage for exact time and route
Safari train with giraffes

Park Zones Overview

ZoneHighlightsTransportationTime Needed
Safari Drive-ThroughLions, tigers, bears, giraffes, zebras, rhinosSafari train (included)40-50 minutes
Panda ParadiseGiant pandas, red pandas, bamboo forestWalking zone30-45 minutes
Koala Garden50+ koalas, eucalyptus treesWalking zone20-30 minutes
White Tiger HillWhite tigers, Bengal tigers, diving showsWalking zone30-40 minutes
Giraffe PlazaGiraffe feeding, photo opportunitiesWalking zone20-30 minutes
Elephant ValleyAsian elephants, elephant showsWalking zone30-45 minutes
Rainforest AdventureOrangutans, chimpanzees, tropical birdsWalking zone30-40 minutes
Jurassic ZoneDinosaur models, prehistoric experienceWalking zone15-20 minutes
Children’s WorldPetting zoo, small animal interactions, playgroundWalking zone30-60 minutes (with kids)

Sample Itineraries

Full Day Itinerary (Recommended for First-Timers)

TimeActivityLocationNotes
9:00 AMArrive & EnterNorth Gate (recommended)Beat the crowds, collect map, download Chimelong app
9:30 AMSafari TrainNorth Gate departure40 min ride, sit on right side. This covers the African/Asian zones
10:30 AMElephant ShowElephant TheatrePerformance + photo ops
11:15 AMGiraffe PlazaWalking zoneFeed giraffes (¥30-50), take photos
12:00 PMLunch BreakKoala Food Street or Panda RestaurantBudget ¥60-80 per person
1:00 PMPanda ParadiseWalking zoneVisit both giant pandas and red pandas. Less crowded after lunch
2:00 PMKoala GardenWalking zoneObserve koalas, educational talks
2:45 PMWhite Tiger HillWalking zoneCatch 3:00 PM diving show, arrive 10 min early
3:30 PMCable Car RideChoose Circular Route30-40 min panoramic tour, rest your legs
4:15 PMFlamingo Island & Monkey KingdomWalking zoneGreat for photos, animals more active in late afternoon
5:00 PMRainforest Adventure or 4D CinemaWalking zone/South GateChoose based on energy level
5:45 PMSouvenir Shopping & ExitGift shops near exitsShops close at 6:00 PM

Half-Day Express Itinerary (4-5 Hours)

TimeActivityNotes
9:30 AMArrive & Safari TrainPriority: Complete drive-through safari first
10:30 AMPanda ParadiseMust-see for most visitors
11:15 AMWhite Tiger HillCatch a show, iconic attraction
12:00 PMQuick lunchGrab-and-go options available
12:45 PMKoala Garden + Giraffe PlazaTwo quick stops
1:30 PMCable Car (if time permits)OR skip and do more walking exhibits
2:00 PMExitPlan next Chimelong attraction or return to city

Photography-Focused Itinerary

Best Photo Spots:

  1. Safari Train – Giraffes, zebras (right-side seats)
  2. White Tiger Hill – Diving shows (water splash shots)
  3. Panda Paradise – Giant pandas eating bamboo (morning light)
  4. Giraffe Plaza – Eye-level feeding interactions
  5. Cable Car – Aerial landscape and habitat overviews
  6. Flamingo Island – Pink flock (afternoon golden hour)

Pro Photography Tips:

  • Bring zoom lens (200-400mm) for safari train
  • No flash allowed near animals
  • Best light: 9:00-10:30 AM and 4:00-5:30 PM
  • Cloudy days reduce harsh shadows

Dining Options & Food Guide

Restaurants Inside the Park

RestaurantLocationCuisineAverage CostSpecial Features
Panda RestaurantChildren’s World (near Little Dragon Bumper Cars)Chinese, Asian¥70/personDine while watching pandas through windows
Swan CuisineNear Swan LakeWestern, Pizza¥80/personRoasted herb chicken, made-to-order pizzas
Koala Food StreetNear Koala PlazaHong Kong-style Cantonese¥80/personVariety of stalls, dim sum, noodles
Savanna CaféSafari areaFast food, Snacks¥40-50/personQuick bites, burgers, fried chicken
Elephant RestaurantNear Elephant TheatreChinese, Set meals¥60-70/personFamily-style combo meals

Food Policy & Tips

PolicyDetails
Outside Food✅ Allowed: Packaged snacks (chips, biscuits, bread)
❌ Prohibited: Fresh fruits, instant noodles, hot food
Beverages✅ Sealed bottled water and drinks allowed
Water refill stations available throughout park
Dietary Options❌ Limited vegetarian/vegan options
✅ Ask staff for “素食” (sù shí = vegetarian)
Most restaurants offer rice and vegetable dishes
Child-Friendly✅ Kids meals available
✅ High chairs at major restaurants
✅ Microwave for heating baby food (ask staff)

Budget Dining Tips:

  • Bring packaged snacks to save money
  • Combo meals (¥60-80) offer better value than à la carte
  • Share dishes family-style (common in China)
  • Avoid weekends/holidays when prices may be slightly higher
  • Water refill stations are free (bring reusable bottle)

Must-Try Local Snacks:

  • Pineapple buns (菠萝包)
  • Egg tarts (蛋挞)
  • BBQ pork buns (叉烧包)
  • Fresh coconut water (during summer)

Insider Tips for International Visitors

Essential Preparation

CategoryWhat to Bring/Know
Documents• Passport (required for ticket verification)
• Printed or mobile ticket QR code
• Hotel booking confirmation (if using tourist discount)
Technology• Fully charged smartphone + portable power bank
• Download Chimelong app (Chinese, but has map)
• Download translation app (Google Translate, Pleco)
• VPN (if you need Google Maps/Gmail access)
Weather Gear• Sunscreen SPF50+ (Guangzhou is very sunny)
• Hat and sunglasses
• Umbrella (rain OR sun)
• Light jacket (for air-conditioned buildings)
Comfort Items• Comfortable walking shoes (expect 10,000+ steps)
• Backpack (for snacks, water, souvenirs)
• Tissues/wet wipes (not all restrooms have toilet paper)
• Insect repellent (summer months)
For Families• Stroller (rentals available: ¥100/day + ¥200 deposit)
• Baby carrier for toddlers
• Snacks and baby supplies
• Change of clothes for kids (water play areas)

Language & Communication

Useful Chinese PhrasesPinyinWhen to Use
哪里是…? (Where is…?)Nǎ lǐ shì…?Asking for directions
洗手间在哪里? (Where’s the restroom?)Xǐ shǒu jiān zài nǎ lǐ?Finding facilities
多少钱? (How much?)Duō shǎo qián?Asking prices
我是素食者 (I’m vegetarian)Wǒ shì sù shí zhěAt restaurants
可以用信用卡吗? (Can I use credit card?)Kě yǐ yòng xìn yòng kǎ ma?Payment
请帮我拍照 (Please take my photo)Qǐng bāng wǒ pāi zhàoGetting photos

Money-Saving Strategies

✅ Do:

  • Book tickets 3+ days in advance online (10-15% discount)
  • Visit on weekdays (cheaper tickets, fewer crowds)
  • Bring your own snacks and water
  • Download park map to avoid getting lost
  • Use free shuttle buses instead of taxis
  • Share animal feeding experiences with family

❌ Don’t:

  • Buy tickets at gate (full price)
  • Visit during Chinese holidays (National Day, Spring Festival)
  • Buy every add-on (prioritize 1-2 experiences)
  • Eat every meal in park (one meal is enough, snack the rest)

Crowd Management

Crowd LevelWhenStrategy
Low 👥Weekdays (Mon-Thu), January-March, September-NovemberStandard itinerary works. No fast pass needed.
Medium 👥👥Fridays, December, April-MayArrive at 9:00 AM. Consider single-attraction fast pass.
High 👥👥👥Weekends, June-AugustBuy multi-attraction fast pass. Arrive before opening. Use cable car to avoid crowds.
Extreme 👥👥👥👥Chinese National Day (Oct 1-7), Spring Festival (late Jan/early Feb)🚨 Avoid if possible! If you must go: Buy fast pass, expect 1-2 hour waits, focus on walking zones.

Facilities & Services

ServiceLocationCost
Stroller RentalNorth & South Gates¥100/day (¥200 deposit)
Wheelchair RentalNorth & South Gates¥100/day (¥200 deposit)
LockersOutside North & South GatesSmall ¥20, Medium ¥35, Large ¥55
First AidNear main restroomsFree (basic medical assistance)
Lost & FoundCustomer Service Center (both gates)Free
Nursing RoomChildren’s World, Panda ParadiseFree (private space, microwave, changing table)
RestroomsEvery 200-300 metersFree (bring own toilet paper recommended)

Safety & Etiquette

Do’s:

  • ✅ Stay on designated paths
  • ✅ Keep a safe distance from animals
  • ✅ Follow staff instructions at shows
  • ✅ Dispose of trash in bins (park is very clean)
  • ✅ Ask permission before photographing staff or other visitors

Don’ts:

  • ❌ Feed animals outside designated areas (safety risk, fine possible)
  • ❌ Knock on glass or shout at animals
  • ❌ Smoke (designated areas only)
  • ❌ Bring pets into park
  • ❌ Use drones (prohibited)

Weather Considerations

SeasonWeatherWhat to Prepare
Spring (Mar-May)Warm 20-28°C, occasional rainLight layers, umbrella, sunscreen
Summer (Jun-Aug)Hot & humid 28-35°C, typhoons possibleSun protection, lots of water, cooling towel. Many shaded areas available
Autumn (Sep-Nov)Comfortable 20-28°C, dryLight jacket for evening, sunscreen
Winter (Dec-Feb)Cool 10-18°C, drySweater/light jacket, long pants

Rainy Day Tips:

  • Most animal shows are weather-dependent (may be canceled)
  • Indoor exhibits: Panda Paradise, Koala Garden, 4D Cinema
  • Covered walkways in many areas
  • Safari train continues in light rain

Frequently Asked Questions

General Questions

Q: Is Chimelong Safari Park suitable for non-Chinese speakers? A: Yes! While most signage is in Chinese, the park layout is intuitive. Download a translation app, and staff at major attractions often understand basic English. The Chimelong app has maps that work without language.

Q: How does Chimelong compare to other safari parks worldwide? A: Chimelong is comparable to Singapore Zoo or San Diego Safari Park in terms of scale and animal variety. It’s particularly famous for its panda and white tiger populations, which are rare globally.

Q: Can I visit multiple Chimelong attractions in one day? A: It’s challenging. Chimelong Safari Park alone needs 6-8 hours. If you’re very efficient, you might add Chimelong International Circus (evening show), but it’s better to dedicate separate days to each park.

Q: Is the park wheelchair/stroller accessible? A: Yes, very accessible! Paved pathways throughout, elevators at cable car stations, and accessible restrooms. The safari train and cable car both accommodate wheelchairs.

Ticketing Questions

Q: Do I need to print tickets or is mobile fine? A: Mobile tickets (QR code) work perfectly. Just show on phone at entrance gate. Make sure your battery is charged!

Q: Can I get a refund if it rains? A: Generally no refunds for weather. However, if the park closes due to extreme weather (typhoons), refunds or date changes may be offered. Check with booking platform.

Q: Is fast pass worth it? A: Depends on when you visit:

  • Weekdays: Usually not necessary
  • Weekends: Single-attraction pass is helpful
  • Holidays: Multi-attraction pass highly recommended

Practical Questions

Q: What payment methods are accepted? A: WeChat Pay and Alipay are most common. Some vendors accept cash (RMB). Credit cards are accepted at major restaurants and gift shops, but not all locations.

Q: Is there WiFi in the park? A: Free WiFi available in main areas (near gates, restaurants). However, it’s slower and requires Chinese phone number for registration. Consider buying a local SIM card or portable WiFi device.

Q: Can I bring a camera with professional equipment? A: Yes, photography is encouraged! However, tripods and drones are prohibited. No flash photography near animals.

Q: Are there halal food options? A: Limited options. Most restaurants serve pork and non-halal meat. Your best bet is to look for vegetable dishes, rice, and noodles. Bring snacks if you have strict dietary requirements.

Q: What if I lose my child in the park? A: Go immediately to the nearest Customer Service Center or ask any staff member. There are PA announcements and a lost-child protocol. Consider putting contact info on your child’s clothing/wristband.

Q: When are animals most active? A: Early morning (9:30-11:00 AM) and late afternoon (4:00-5:30 PM). Midday, many animals rest due to heat.

Q: Can I touch the animals? A: Only at designated interactive areas (Children’s World petting zoo, giraffe feeding). Never touch animals through fences or on safari train.

Q: Are animal shows ethical? A: Chimelong has improved animal welfare standards in recent years. Shows focus on natural behaviors and education. However, opinions vary—decide for yourself whether to attend performances.

Q: Do pandas and koalas always visible? A: Mostly yes, but animals may be in back areas for medical check-ups or rest. Pandas are most reliably visible during morning feeding (9:30-11:00 AM).

Planning Questions

Q: Should I start from North Gate or South Gate? A: North Gate is better for first-timers. It’s closer to:

  • Safari train departure
  • Panda Paradise
  • Main animal zones

South Gate is better if you want to start with 4D Cinema or children’s areas.

Q: Can I leave and re-enter the same day? A: Generally no. Tickets are for single entry. If you need to leave temporarily, ask at gate—they may allow re-entry with hand stamp, but it’s not guaranteed.

Q: What if I only have 3-4 hours? A: Follow our half-day itinerary. Priority order:

  1. Safari Train (must-do)
  2. Panda Paradise
  3. White Tiger Hill
  4. Choose one: Koala Garden OR Giraffe feeding

Q: Is Night Safari available year-round? A: No, only select dates (usually summer weekends and holidays). Check official website or ask when booking tickets. It requires a separate admission.


Nearby Attractions & Accommodations

Other Chimelong Attractions

AttractionDistanceBest ForDuration
Chimelong International Circus1 km (free shuttle)Evening entertainment, acrobatics2 hours (evening shows)
Chimelong Water Park2 km (free shuttle)Summer fun, water slidesFull day (May-October)
Chimelong Paradise2 km (free shuttle)Thrill rides, theme parkFull day
Chimelong Birds Paradise3 kmBird watching, wetland ecologyHalf day
HotelDistancePrice RangeBenefits
Chimelong HotelAdjacent (5-min walk)¥800-1500/nightAnimal-themed rooms, some overlook white tiger enclosure, free shuttle, early park entry
Chimelong Panda HotelAdjacent (5-min walk)¥700-1200/nightPanda theme, family-friendly, free shuttle, breakfast included in packages
Chimelong Xiangjiang Hotel1 km (free shuttle)¥600-1000/nightModern design, good value, free shuttle to all parks
Budget Options (Hanxi Area)2-3 km (metro accessible)¥200-400/nightNear metro station, local restaurants, good for budget travelers

Final Tips for First-Time Visitors

Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Visiting during Chinese holidays – Wait times 3-4x longer, ticket prices higher
  2. Not bringing snacks/water – Park food is expensive (¥15-30 for water)
  3. Wearing uncomfortable shoes – You’ll walk 8-12 km throughout the day
  4. Missing the safari train – It’s the park’s highlight, go early
  5. Not planning show schedules – Download daily schedule at entrance to coordinate timing

Top 5 Things That Make Your Visit Amazing

  1. Arrive at opening time (9:30 AM) – First 2 hours are magic before crowds
  2. Sit on right side of safari train – 80% of best animal views are on this side
  3. Visit Panda Paradise during morning feeding – Most active and visible
  4. Buy combo meal + water package – Saves ¥30-50 vs. buying separately
  5. Use cable car mid-afternoon – Rest your legs while seeing panoramic views

Contact Information

Contact MethodDetails
Official Websitewww.chimelong.com/gz/safaripark (Chinese)
English info available through booking platforms
Customer Service Hotline+86 20 8478 6000 (Chinese service)
Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
EmergencyIn-park: Ask any staff member or go to Customer Service Center
Medical: First aid stations throughout park
Police: Dial 110 (English service available)
Address299 Hanxi Avenue East, Panyu District, Guangzhou 511430, China
GPS: 23.002660, 113.315593
Social MediaWeChat Official Account: Chimelong Tourist Resort (in Chinese)
International bookings: Trip.com, Klook, KKday

End

Chimelong Safari Park offers one of Asia’s most impressive wildlife experiences, combining African safari adventures with unique opportunities to see pandas, koalas, and white tigers up close. With proper planning—arriving early, prioritizing key attractions, and managing your budget—you’ll have an unforgettable day exploring over 500 species across 800 hectares.

2 Comments

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *