Zoo Johor Guide: Visiting Malaysia's Oldest Zoo in Johor Bahru (Reopened)

Zoo Johor is Malaysia’s oldest zoo — first opened in 1928 — and it reopened on 31 August 2024 after a multi-year upgrade. It sits in the Johor Bahru city centre beside the Istana Besar grounds, a short Grab ride from KSL City Mall, and makes an easy half-day out for families.

Many people who grew up in JB remember the old “Kebun Binatang”. After closing in 2020 for upgrading, the zoo came back with cleaner grounds, repaired enclosures and new landscaping, and nearly 20,000 people reportedly turned up on reopening day. Here is what to expect if you are staying in town.

What is the history of Zoo Johor?

The zoo started in 1928 as the Kebun Binatang (“animal garden”) and was one of the first zoos of its kind in the region. It was handed over to the Johor State Government in 1962 and opened to the public that year, and it is still the only zoo in Malaysia run by a state government. The grounds cover about 12.5 hectares, roughly a kilometre from the old city centre.

What can you see there now?

Expect a compact, walkable zoo rather than a safari park. Recent visitor photos show sambar deer, emus, gibbons, tortoises and several monkey species, among others. A distinctive touch is a collection of animals belonging to the Johor Royal Family, which links the zoo to the palace next door. There is also a gift shop selling “The Johor Collection” products made with local entrepreneurs.

What are the best tips for a family visit?

• Go early: it is an outdoor zoo, so mornings are cooler and the animals are usually more active.
• Pack for the heat: water, hats, sunscreen and an umbrella for sudden showers.
• Check before you go: ticket prices and opening hours have changed since the reopening, so confirm them on Zoo Johor’s official channels on the day.
• Plan the rest of the day: if it rains, swap to indoor plans from our rainy-day guide.

How do you get there from KSL?

Zoo Johor 📍 Map is in the city centre near the Istana Besar, usually about 15–20 minutes by Grab from KSL City Mall depending on traffic. Allow two to three hours. Because it is next to the palace grounds, it pairs naturally with a look at the city’s heritage buildings — see our famous buildings of Johor Bahru guide — and our Johor Bahru with kids itinerary has more family ideas.

Our serviced Studio and 2-Bedroom units at KSL D’Esplanade 📍 Map sit right above KSL City Mall, so families can head back for a nap and air-conditioning after the zoo. See our units, then WhatsApp us at +60 12-708 8789 to check availability for your dates.