SIAM INSECT ZOO

Siam Insect Zoo in Chiang Mai is a small but interesting attraction if you want to see something different from the usual temples and markets. It's more of a close-up discovery center where you will see live beetles, stick insects, butterflies, scorpions, spiders, reptiles, and other unusual species. There are also many interesting cabinet displays of preserved insects.

If you are a family with children, then this zoo is an ideal attraction that will be of great interest to them. Kids tend to get excited and run through the exhibits quickly, so maybe get them a cheap camera or note-pad (for school story telling back home) to slow them down and appreciate what the zoo has to offer.

Butterflies are the main attraction where you will see them live in a garden-like setting, along with plants and flowers that help create a more natural atmosphere. This display is seasonal and depends on the conditions, which can affect the number of live exhibits on show at any one time.

There is a fairly good-sized live spider and scorpion section that can be a bit creepy for some people, but it adds to the fascinating appeal of this zoo.

Morning or early afternoon is usually a good time to visit, especially if you are combining this zoo with other attractions in the Mae Rim area such as the King Cobra Show which is close-by. The weather is often more comfortable earlier in the day, and it gives you time to continue to other stops afterwards.

If you are specifically interested in butterflies then it is best to visit when the weather conditions are warm and bright. This is often better for seeing butterflies flying around in the garden. Natural activity will vary depending on the weather, season and time of day.

Taking photos of the live butterflies can be challenging. If you use the macro setting or ultra-wide setting on your smart phone camera or an actual camera, then this will most likey scare the insect away because you need to get up close.

I recommend to use the zoom setting which allows you to stand back and not disturb the butterfly. But this also has its own challenges in avoiding blurry images. That is why it is best to go on a bright and cloud free day so that the shutter speed can be faster which helps to avoid blur. Don't be tempted to use flash because that will definately scare everything away.

Use spot metering if your camera/smart phone has this option, and center the insect in the frame of view. You want to avoid surrounding leaves to be the main point of focus.

Many modern smart phones/cameras have a stabilization feature, so ensure this option is turned on, and it may take a few shots before it "kicks-in".

See below for map and directions to the Siam Insect Zoo.

A private driver or orgnaised tour is a good option if you want to visit several of these Mae Rim attractions in one day. You could combine Siam Insect Zoo with nearby places such as orchid farms, elephant parks, botanical gardens, waterfalls, cafés or other family attractions in the local area.

Private drivers can be easily found in Chiang Mai city touting tours for the tourist.
The area is a bit remote, so you will find it practically impossible to get reliable once-off transport.

See the interative map below for the exact location.