The zoo holds the distinction of being the first in the world to house and successfully breed penguins.
It is home to the UK's only koala group, housed in a specially designed outdoor-indoor facility.
The zoo's 'Penguin Parade' is a daily tradition where penguins are invited to walk out of their enclosure to explore the public path.
The facility is built on a significant incline, providing both animal habitats and expansive views over the city of Edinburgh.
Sir Nils Olav III, a king penguin, holds the rank of Brigadier within the Norwegian King's Guard, with his predecessors having been knighted.
The zoo actively manages the 'Wildlife Garden' which is designed to attract native Scottish species to the site.
It houses a captive-bred population of rare and endangered species as part of the European Endangered Species Programmes.
Edinburgh Zoo is home to the United Kingdom's only koalas and is set on an 82-acre hillside location in Corstorphine. The zoo is world-renowned for its pioneering animal conservation programs and participation in global breeding initiatives. The facility is carved into the side of Corstorphine Hill, featuring a steep gradient that requires significant walking. It houses over 1,000 animals, ranging from large carnivores to penguins and primates. The site operates as a registered charity under the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland. It is notably recognized for being the first zoo in the world to house and breed penguins.
The viewing platform near the hilltop offers a panoramic shot of the zoo with Edinburgh Castle in the background.
Wear sturdy walking shoes to navigate the steep, hilly paths throughout the park.
Check the daily events schedule upon arrival to catch the penguin parade and keeper talks.
Bring a refillable water bottle, as the site covers a large area with varying elevations.
Attempting to cover the entire site in a rush; the steep terrain makes quick transit difficult and tiring.
Maintain silence near enclosures, do not feed animals unless permitted, and keep to marked pathways.
