San Diego Zoo: 1-Day Ticket & Unlimited Bus Tour Access

Summary

Koalas, penguins and open-air trams in Balboa Park’s wildest corner

You’ll wander winding paths past koalas and tigers, float above Balboa Park on the Skyfari tram, and rest your feet during an open-air bus tour—all included in your San Diego Zoo ticket. Watch kids marvel at giant tortoises or try to spot weaver birds’ hidden nests. It’s a day full of small surprises and wild moments—sometimes loud, sometimes quiet—that’ll stick with you long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the first thing I’d smell inside the San Diego Zoo to be eucalyptus — not popcorn or sunscreen, but this sharp, green scent drifting from somewhere above. Turns out it was the koala enclosure (our guide, Luis, grinned when I asked if they ever get bored of it). We’d barely made it past the entrance before a group of kids ran by shouting about “the giant tortoise!” and honestly, I felt just as giddy. There’s something about seeing animals you’ve only read about — Galápagos tortoises lumbering along, polar bears swimming slow circles — that makes you feel like a kid again.

The Skyfari tram was a surprise hit for me. You float right over the treetops and suddenly you’re looking down on flamingos clustered like pink commas in the pond. The air up there is quieter than you’d think; just wind and distant animal calls. We used our unlimited bus tour pass later when our legs started complaining (the zoo’s bigger than it looks on the map). Our driver pointed out tiny weaver birds building nests that looked like hanging baskets — he said they’re some of his favorites because they never stop working, even when nobody’s watching.

I got lost near Wildlife Explorers Basecamp — not lost-lost, just distracted by all the noise and color. Kids were racing between misty rainforest tunnels and desert domes; one little girl pressed her face to the glass where a lizard blinked back at her. Lunch was nothing fancy but sitting under palm trees with a sandwich while peacocks strutted nearby felt oddly perfect. It’s easy to forget you’re still in San Diego city limits until you catch sight of downtown through the bamboo.

I left with dirt on my shoes and way too many photos of lemurs (they move fast — blurry evidence). Even now I keep thinking about that moment on the tram, gliding above everything for a second or two, feeling both small and lucky. If you want a day trip from downtown San Diego that feels like stepping into another world, this is it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit San Diego Zoo and explore habitats

• Enter San Diego Zoo
• Walk winding paths through forests and mesas
• See rare and endangered animals
• Explore Africa Rocks habitat
• Enjoy interactive animal encounters
• Attend educational presentations
• Visit Wildlife Explorers Basecamp zones

Top questions

How do I use my San Diego Zoo 1-day pass?

Your ticket is valid any day within one year of purchase; show it at entry for admission.

Is transportation around the zoo included?

Yes, unlimited use of both the Skyfari Aerial Tram and Guided Bus Tour are included with your ticket.

Can I bring a stroller or wheelchair?

Yes, strollers and wheelchairs are welcome; rentals are available near the entrance if needed.

Are service animals allowed inside San Diego Zoo?

Yes, service animals are allowed throughout all areas of the zoo.

Does this ticket include lunch or food?

No meals are included; food is available for purchase inside the zoo.

Is there public transportation to San Diego Zoo?

Yes, public transportation options are available nearby Balboa Park where the zoo is located.

How accessible is the zoo for people with limited mobility?

The zoo is fully wheelchair accessible; all areas and surfaces can be reached by wheelchair or pram.

Do I need to reserve a time slot for panda viewing?

Please check the zoo’s website for current info on complimentary timed tickets or standby lines for panda viewing.

What’s included

Your day includes entry to San Diego Zoo with unlimited rides on both the Skyfari Aerial Tram and Guided Bus Tour—just show your ticket at arrival (no hotel pickup needed), plus full access to all animal habitats and exhibits throughout Balboa Park’s famous wildlife park.