A day trip to Edinburgh Zoo.

By Julian Pla

 Spring is finally taking shape; the sun is coming out more often than not. With the free bus pass anywhere in Scotland is just a couple hours away, so why not start by visiting Edinburgh Zoo.

Pack a light bag with some snacks and jump on the next 900 bus to Edinburgh, you can take it from Buchannan’s bus station, and it will take you directly to the Zoo. You can buy your tickets online or at the box office.

The Zoo is the perfect place to see animals you wouldn’t have the chance to see everyday. From more common ones like wild horses to exciting lions or extra cute red pandas.

The opening hours are from 10 am to 6 pm, getting there early is a good idea as it gives you time to visit all habitats without rushing and appreciating all the different species they have to show.

Want to get a bit more involved than just watching the animals through a fence or glass? They have daily activities going on. At 11 am you can learn all about flamingos and their beautiful rose-coloured feathers or join the staff at 2:15 pm to see the rhinos and learn why they are known as ecosystem engineers.

Happening at the same time is one of the main attractions of the zoo, the famous penguin parade. Follow the penguins around to their habitat and if you are lucky enough interact with them. See the penguins dance and join them.

The last programmed activity is with the red pandas at 3:30 pm see them goof around and do what a panda does best, be unbelievably cute.

If you are more into weird looking animals rather than cute ones the Zoo has a serpentarium. Where they keep all their exotic snakes, look through the glass and marvel at their beautiful skins and sharp fangs.