The Johannesburg Zoo offers a dedicated discounted entry rate of R81 per person for tertiary students, representing a substantial saving off the standard R135 adult admission. To qualify for this reduced rate, students must present a valid university or college student ID card upon entry, and the discount is valid on weekdays (Monday through Friday). School groups also benefit from a discounted educational rate of R52 per learner during weekday visits when booked in advance.
Johannesburg Zoo Student Ticket Pricing
The Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo (JCPZ) structure provides discounted access to make wildlife education and conservation accessible to learners and tertiary students.
| Visitor Category | Tariff (Incl. VAT) | Special Conditions / Requirements |
| Tertiary Students | R81.00 | Valid physical student ID card required; weekday visits |
| Standard Adult | R135.00 | Ages 13+ (without student ID) |
| Children (3–12 years) | R81.00 | Under 3 years enter free |
| Senior Citizens (60+) | R81.00 | Proof of identification required |
| School Groups | R52.00 | Per learner/educator; weekdays only; advance booking required |
| Differently Abled Visitors | R52.00 | Applies across valid concession criteria |
Additional On-Site Costs to Consider
- Car & Minivan Parking: R20.00 per vehicle at the dedicated Upper Park Drive parking lot.
- School & Tour Bus Parking: R34.00 per bus (30–120 seaters).
- Ferry Rides: R8.00 per person on weekdays (R14.00 on weekends).
- Zoo Buggy / Golf Cart Rentals: R170.00 to R350.00 per hour depending on cart size (2-seater to 8-seater).
Eligibility and ID Requirements for Student Discounts
To take advantage of the R81 student ticket tariff, visitors must adhere to the zoo’s verification policies:
Valid Student Identification
You must present an active student identity card from a recognised South African higher education institution, such as:
- Universities (e.g., Wits, UJ, UP, UNISA)
- Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Colleges
- Registered private higher education colleges and institutes
Note: The ID must show your name, photograph, and current academic year or active enrollment status.
Day of Visit Restrictions
The discounted student rate is primarily intended for weekday visits (Monday through Friday). Students visiting on weekends, public holidays, or during major special events (such as evening festivals) may be required to purchase a general adult admission ticket if student tariffs are restricted during peak periods.
School Group Discounts vs. Tertiary Student Rates
Johannesburg Zoo differentiates between individual tertiary students and organised pre-school, primary, or high school educational excursions.
Organised School Excursions (R52 per Learner)
- Who it applies to: Pre-primary, primary, and secondary school learners visiting as an official educational tour.
- Booking requirement: Must be pre-booked with the Johannesburg Zoo Education Department at least one week in advance.
- Educator ratio: Accompanying teachers and registered chaperones also qualify for the R52 rate.
- Included perks: Access to the Zoo School curriculum worksheets and educational talks.
How to Buy Johannesburg Zoo Student Tickets
Visitors have two reliable methods for purchasing student tickets:
1. Online Booking via Webtickets
- Visit the official Webtickets platform and search for The Johannesburg Zoo.
- Select your planned date of visit (choose a weekday for student rates).
- Choose the Student ticket category (R81.00) and add your parking voucher if driving.
- Complete the checkout process and store the digital QR code on your mobile phone.
- Present both the electronic ticket and your student card at the turnstiles.
2. At the Main Entrance Ticket Office
You can buy tickets directly at the main entrance gate on Upper Park Drive. Payment can be made using debit or credit cards. Note that the zoo operates largely cashless ticket counters, and cheques are not accepted.
Operating Hours, Location, and Getting There
Operating Hours
- Monday to Sunday: 08:30 to 17:30
- Last Entry: 16:00 (strict gate closure for new admissions)
- Open 365 Days a Year: Including Christmas Day, New Year’s Day, and all public holidays.
Location and GPS Address
- Physical Address: Corner of Jan Smuts Avenue and Upper Park Drive, Saxonwold / Parkview, Johannesburg, 2193.
- Main Entrance & Secure Parking: Located along Upper Park Drive.
Public Transport Connections for Students
- Metrobus & Mini-Bus Taxis: Taxis running along Jan Smuts Avenue between Johannesburg CBD, Braamfontein, and Rosebank drop passengers directly outside the zoo entrance.
- Gautrain: Take the Gautrain to the Rosebank Station, followed by a short Metrobus, Rea Vaya, or e-hailing ride (approx. 3 km) down Jan Smuts Avenue.
Budget-Friendly Tips for Students Visiting Joburg Zoo
- Pack Your Own Picnic: The zoo features expansive shaded lawns, picnic spots, and designated braai areas (subject to seasonal regulations). Bringing your own lunch, water bottle, and snacks saves money compared to eating at on-site fast-food kiosks.
- Wear Comfortable Walking Shoes: The facility covers 54 hectares (133 acres) with over 10 km of pathways. Exploring on foot saves you the hourly buggy rental fees.
- Split Parking or E-Hailing Costs: If traveling in a group with friends, carpool or share an e-hailing ride to split the R20 parking fee or drop-off fares.
- Download a Map in Advance: Save the digital zoo map on your smartphone before arriving to plan your route around major enclosures like the AngloGold Ashanti Heart of Africa, Temple of the Ancients, and the Big Five exhibits.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do students pay to enter the Johannesburg Zoo?
Tertiary students pay a discounted admission fee of R81 per person upon presenting a valid student ID, saving R54 compared to the regular adult ticket price of R135.
Can students get the discounted entry rate on weekends or public holidays?
The standard tertiary student rate is officially valid on weekdays (Monday to Friday). During weekends and public holidays, standard adult entry rates of R135 typically apply unless a special weekend concession is active.
What proof is required to qualify for the student rate?
You must present an official, valid physical student card issued by an accredited university, college, or tertiary institution showing your photo and active enrollment status.
Are international students eligible for the Johannesburg Zoo student discount?
Yes, international students studying at South African universities or carrying recognized international student identity credentials (such as an ISIC card) can claim the student discount on eligible visit days.
How much is parking at Johannesburg Zoo for students?
Standard car and minivan parking at the secure Upper Park Drive parking lot costs R20 per vehicle for the full duration of your visit.
Can university student societies or large groups book in advance?
Yes, large tertiary student societies or tour groups can make group booking arrangements through the Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo booking desk to coordinate group entry and guided tours.