In December last, the Edinburgh Zoo had welcomed two new residents to it’s already impressive list of animals, two giant Pandas named Tian Tian and Yuang Guang (translating Sunshine and Sweetie). Both are currently on display and you can come over to see the Pandas for yourself. But beware, given the enormous interest in the animals, the Zoo had introduced a special ticketing system for visitors, meaning that only a limited number of people can visit the Pandas each day.
Read on to find out what makes those two animals so special and how you can visit the two Pandas yourself.
With approximately 1600 Pandas left living in the wild and only a handful in captivity in their native China and abroad, it is not a surprise that the arrival of Tian Tian and Yuang Guang to the UK has generated such an interest. The two are the first Pandas to arrive to the country in the last 17 years! By welcoming them, the Edinburgh Zoo has become one of only 13 Zoos in the world to have Pandas as their residents.
The two Pandas in Edinburg are expected to mate and breed the young ones. There is a high hope for that given the current numbers of the species.
Visiting the Pandas
You can visit Tian Tian and Yuang Guang as part of your normal Zoo tour and there is no extra price added. However, due to a heavy demand, you will need to book your visit for a specific time and will not be admitted without a valid ticket. A tour through the Pandas display lasts only 20 minutes and you will be guided through the whole experience.
You can book your visit online through the Edinburg Zoo’s website here. Be aware that all tickets have to be printed out for presentation. The Zoo does not allow for presenting tickets on your mobile phone screen or a tablet.
Travel and Transport at the Edinburgh Zoo
If you are intending to come over by a car, there is a car park ready for you. However, make sure that you have some extra time to find a parking space, as the car park is often full.
If you are coming via public transport, there is an array of choice for you. You can find more information about getting to the Zoo here
More Information about the Pandas
Lastly, the Zoo had prepared a great Panda fact sheet that you can download for free to find out more about the animals before you arrive. To download the fact sheet, click here
Edinburgh Zoo Accommodation
If you are planning to come over to Edinburgh to visit the Pandas, we have a great accommodation option for you. Located only few minutes cab drive from the Zoo, our West End apartments offer everything you would need for a comfortable stay. For more information about facilities and booking, visit West End Apartments
Photo credit: KathrynW1 via Flickr
