Edinburgh Zoo is one of the most exciting places to visit in Scotland! Opened in 1913, it is home to more than 1,000 amazing animals from around the world — from tiny frogs to giant giraffes. But the zoo is not just for fun; it plays a very important role in protecting animals and nature.
The zoo is famous for its conservation work, helping endangered species to survive. It supports breeding programs for animals like Siberian tigers, red pandas, and Scottish wildcats. Scientists at the zoo also study animal behaviour to learn how to protect species in the wild. The zoo works with other zoos and organisations around the world to save animals and their habitats.
One of the zoo’s most famous stories is about Sir Nils Olav, a king penguin who is an honorary colonel in the Norwegian Army! Every few years, Norwegian soldiers visit the zoo to salute him — a funny but heart-warming tradition that always makes visitors smile. Another favourite is watching the penguin parade, when the penguins waddle through the zoo grounds on their daily walk.
Edinburgh Zoo also focuses on education. Teen visitors can join workshops or volunteer programs to learn how to care for animals and protect the planet. So, a day at Edinburgh Zoo isn’t just about seeing cool creatures — it’s about helping build a better future for wildlife everywhere!
14:00 – Depart Edinburgh Academy
14:10 – Take Lothian Bus
14:45 – Arrive at Edinburgh Zoo
Stop 1 – Meerkats
Stop 2 – Penguins Rock
Stop 3 – Koalas
Stop 4 – Tigers
Stop 5 – Giraffes
Stop 6 – Gorilla House
16:05 – Wrap-Up at Zoo Gift Shop
02:15 Meet at the coach park
16:10 – Depart Edinburgh Zoo
16:30 – Arrive Back at Edinburgh Academy
Tiny, curious, and always alert, meerkats live in family groups called mobs. Watch them pop up on lookout duty!
Fun fact: One meerkat always acts as the “guard,” standing tall to warn the group of danger — like a furry little security officer.
These penguins are the stars of the zoo! Watch them dive, swim, and waddle during the daily “penguin parade.”
Fun fact: One penguin, Sir Nils Olav, is an honorary colonel in the Norwegian Army — he even gets inspected by real soldiers!
Visit the zoo’s sleepy koalas in the Australian Walkabout area. They look cute but spend almost 20 hours a day napping!
Fun fact: Koalas have fingerprints almost identical to humans — even scientists need a microscope to tell them apart!
The most powerful big cats at the zoo! Their orange-and-black stripes help them hide in the jungle.
Fun fact: Each tiger’s stripe pattern is unique — like human fingerprints — and helps zookeepers tell them apart.