Desaru Mini Zoo — Attraction in Johor

Our experience at this “zoo” was traumatic. It does not deserve a 4.9 rating on google. Standards at this place are at an all time low.

The staff are complacent and have absolutely no regard for safety. Several animals attacked or lunged at our children. This zoo is dangerous. Visit this zoo if you want to leave with an injury (or worse).

At the peacock chamber, staff was encouraging our 2 year old to put his hand into the enclosure, when there was a sign saying not to do so.

The ostriches were attacking staff, pecking on a staff’s head and shoulder - but the staff was nonchalant. This is extremely risky and it’s a matter of time before one of these birds attacks a child.

On a pony ride - one of the staff encouraged our daughter to put her hands around the pony’s neck to take a picture. We allowed this because we thought the staff knew the temperament of the pony, and it was safe.

However, the staff did not hold on to the pony while this picture was being taken. The pony attacked our 6 year old daughter. She was bitten on her right thigh. The bite was painful, and bruised and cut her skin.

Subsequently, an alpaca lunged at both myself and our 2 year old son, and I had to intervene physically. The alpaca can walk out of its enclosure at will. The staff did not control the alpaca.

A raccoon was left wandering outside its enclosure, with a staff member using his phone the entire while, not paying attention to the animal.

On the pony bite - the staff did apply an ointment, but we had to go to a 24 hour clinic to ensure the bite did not become infected. Our daughter was put on antibiotics, and is still traumatised from the experience.

This zoo, and its staff and management are incredibly disappointing and incompetent. Stay away and keep your children safe. You have...

Short Escape (05/07/2025 – 06/07/2025) JB → Desaru | Lotus Desaru Beach Resort | Desaru Mini Zoo

A quick escape with my whole heart — Ayden, Ayleena & Mummy. 💕 Just one night, but it was packed with joy, fresh air, and memories we’ll hold onto forever.

Lotus Desaru Beach Resort was exactly what we needed — clean, spacious, and so family-friendly. The kids loved the water park, and our evening walk by the beach was pure bliss. The buggy rides around the resort made it even more fun for Ayden, while baby Ayleena got to enjoy the ocean breeze with Mummy in peace. A place where simplicity meets comfort — perfect for young families.

The next morning, we made a spontaneous detour to the Desaru Mini Zoo— and it was such a hit with Ayden! From feeding rabbits, goats, and deer, to spotting exotic birds and even a camel, his eyes lit up the entire time. It was educational, interactive, and heartwarming to see him so engaged. Definitely worth a visit for families with curious little ones.

No luxury needed — just love, little adventures, and quality time. Short, sweet, and soul-refreshing. 🌿💫

Because family time is always the best time. 🌊👨‍👩‍👧‍👦✨

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✅ Lotus Desaru Beach Resort – Highly recommended for a chill, beachside family stay. Spacious suites, a kids’ water park, and direct beach access. ✅ Desaru Mini Zoo – Great for toddlers and preschoolers! Hands-on, educational, and perfect for a few hours of bonding with nature.

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🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Fantastic Experience for Animal Lovers!

I visited Desaru Mini Zoo with my family at 10:30 am and was delighted by the warm welcome and efficient ticketing process. The entry fee of RM20 per adult was reasonable, and we appreciated the opportunity to have our pictures taken upon entry, available for purchase at the photography booth.

The zoo boasts a diverse range of animals, and we opted to enhance our experience by purchasing a basket of food for RM20 to feed the delightful creatures. The attentive staff at every station ensured that everything ran smoothly, and their knowledge about the animals, including raccoons, donkeys, and cows, was impressive. The fact that many of the animals had names added a personal touch to the visit.

One of the highlights for us was the chance to interact with the animals by feeding and even touching them. I couldn't resist capturing moments with every animal, and the cleanliness of the mini zoo, along with the abundance of wash hand stations, made it easy to maintain hygiene after these interactions. The presence of a café inside the zoo was a convenient touch, and we found the interior to be pleasantly cool, making our visit comfortable even in the tropical weather. Additionally, the ample and free parking made our arrival and departure hassle-free.

I highly recommend Desaru Mini Zoo for families, especially those with young children. It's a safe, clean, and enjoyable environment that offers an enriching experience for animal lovers...