Jessica Chenoweth 
San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance
After a long absence, the San Diego Zoo has welcomed a pair of Pandas back to the United States. The pair took residence at the newly designed Panda Ridge at the end of June and have been getting acclimated to their new home. Next Thursday, August 8, visitors will finally get to see these gorgeous animals in person!
Since their arrival, Yun Chuan and Xin Bao have been getting used to their new surroundings in the newly reimagined Panda Ridge. This innovative space is four times larger than the San Diego Zoo’s previous panda habitat and is inspired by famous geological formations in China, emulating mountains, canyons, and cliffs. It features new shade trees for climbing, a diverse array of plants, and rolling hillsides that allow Yun Chuan and Xin Bao to navigate and explore vertically.
Yun Chuan is a five-year-old male with a family history at the San Diego Zoo with his mother being born here in 2007. Xin Bao is a nearly four-year-old female best recognized by her large, round face and big, fluffy ears.
There are three ways for you to visit the Pandas when they return next week:
1 – Giant Panda Timed Tickets: Scan the ticket QR code located on signs posted throughout the Zoo, select an available time, and head to the Timed Ticket line at Panda Ridge at your designated time. You may also seek assistance with timed tickets at any Admissions Booth.
2 – Standby Line: Join the standby line at Panda Ridge anytime from 9:30 a.m. until giant pandas are off habitat or the Zoo closes, whichever occurs earlier. Wait times may vary.
3 – Early Morning with Pandas Walking Tour: A special 60-minute paid Early Morning with Pandas Walking Tour, where an expert guide will lead you to exclusive viewings of giant pandas. This tour is at an additional cost and is not included with admission. Reservations are required. You can make an advanced reservation for the Early Morning with Pandas Walking Tour by reserving online or calling (619) 718-3000.
