Visit These 5 Impressive Zoos in NSW and the ACT, Australia

If you’re looking for a fun and enlightening adventure, look no further than the zoos in New South Wales and the ACT in Australia! Whether you’re an animal lover, a family with curious kids, or just someone who enjoys the great outdoors, zoos offer a unique blend of entertainment, education, and conservation.

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All prices and times were accurate when this information was written or updated; however, please verify the details on the websites before your visit.

Why You Should Visit These Zoos in NSW and the ACT.

1. Meet Amazing Animals Up Close.

One of the biggest draws of zoos is the chance to see a diverse array of animals, many of which you wouldn’t encounter anywhere else. From the majestic koalas and kangaroos to exotic creatures like the Tasmanian devil and the vibrant cassowary, NSW zoos provide a window into Australia’s unique wildlife. Watching these animals in action is not only exciting but also a great way to appreciate the rich biodiversity of our planet.

2. Educational Experiences.

Zoos in NSW prioritise education, offering informative talks, interactive exhibits, and behind-the-scenes experiences. You can learn about animal behaviour, conservation efforts, and the delicate ecosystems that need our protection. Guided tours and workshops are often available, ensuring you leave with a greater understanding of wildlife and its importance.

3. Family-Friendly Fun.

Planning a family day out? Zoos are the perfect destination! Kids love the thrill of spotting animals and exploring various exhibits. Many zoos also feature play areas, animal encounters, and educational programs specially designed for children. Take part in fun activities that ignite their curiosity and nurture a love for animals!

4. Conservation Efforts.

Visiting a zoo helps support vital conservation initiatives. Many facilities in NSW contribute to breeding programs, rehabilitation efforts, and global conservation projects aimed at protecting endangered species. By choosing to visit, you’re minimising your carbon footprint while supporting organisations dedicated to safeguarding wildlife and their habitats.

5. Beautiful Surroundings.

The zoos in NSW are often situated in stunning locations, combining nature with wildlife. Take a stroll through beautifully landscaped gardens, where you’ll enjoy picturesque views while discovering more animals hidden among the lush greenery. It’s a great opportunity to connect with nature and unwind, making your visit not just educational but restorative too.

6. Special Events and Exhibitions.

Throughout the year, NSW zoos host a range of events, from seasonal festivals to special exhibitions highlighting specific species. Keep an eye on their event calendars for unique experiences like nighttime zoo tours, animal feeding times, and seasonal celebrations that you won’t want to miss!

NSW and ACT Zoos I’ve Visited — and You Should, Too!

I have visited the following zoos at least once, but most of them numerous times. They each have their own advantages, but all are worth visiting for the different animals and experiences for you to enjoy.

Taronga Zoo, Sydney

Taronga Zoo is not only the largest zoo in New South Wales, but its animals have multi-million-dollar views of the harbour and Sydney City.

Did you know that Taronga Zoo is home to over 4,000 animals representing more than 350 species? That’s right! From the majestic elephants to the adorable koalas, there’s always something thrilling to discover. Their dedicated team works tirelessly to ensure that each animal is well cared for and that our visitors leave with a greater appreciation of the natural world.

Allow 3 hours to explore the zoo, or longer if you want to experience everything Taronga has to offer. Starting at the main entrance, it’s easier to work your way downhill to the harbour and the ferry wharf, and you get the best harbour and city views!

Depending on the time of the year, you might be entertained by baby animals of all shapes and sizes.

Enclosures are continually evolving to benefit the animals. Larger spaces give them more room to roam or play, depending on the animal.

The latest enclosure is the Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Centre. Here you can get up close to 42 animals, including snakes, turtles, frogs and New Zealand’s own dinosaur, the Tuatara.

The Taronga Train

From 10.30 am to 3.30 pm, take a ride on the new Taronga Train for $5 and see the zoo in a whole new way. Get an idea of the animals you would like to visit, where they are and take in the views of Sydney Harbour.

There are two boarding stations, near the Zoo Entry and near the Amphibian & Reptile Experience, and you can also purchase your ticket here.

Events at the Zoo

Throughout the year, special events offer experiences at Taronga Zoo you won’t forget. From keeper talks and animal shows to Taronga After Dark and new enclosure openings, you can keep up to date with everything going on at Taronga Zoo here.

Animal and Other Zoo Experiences

Have you ever wanted to get up close with your favourite animal? With animal experiences, you can do everything from being a keeper for a day, short courses, a rope adventure course, or animal encounters. To find your experience, click here.

Keeper Talks and Presentations

The best way to plan your day at the zoo is to click here to see when the animal talks are for your favourite animals, as well as the Flight Bird and Seal presentations.

Stay at the Zoo

For more information about spending a night with the animals, click here.

Hours

9.30 am to 4.30 pm (May to August)
9:30 am to 5:00 pm (September to April)

Please note: Taronga Zoo Sydney will close at 4:30 pm from October 3 to 12 for Taronga After Dark.

Prices

Click here to book or find prices for your visit and save up to 20%.

How To Get Here

Driving: Taronga Zoo is located on Bradleys Head Road in Mosman. There is a large car park that costs about $24 for all-day parking.

Ferry: This is the most scenic way and is only 12 minutes from Circular Quay. Sydney Ferries services depart Circular Quay every 30 minutes.

For more ways to travel to Taronga Zoo, click here.

Australian Reptile Park, Somersby

I first visited the Australian Reptile Park in 1980, and it has grown since then. At just over an hour’s drive north of Sydney, it is a favourite with families enjoying a day out of the city.

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to hang out with a crocodile? Or how about meeting a snake up close? At the park, you can do just that! From the agile bobtails to the majestic pythons, our reptile family is always eager to show off their incredible skills and quirky behaviours. If you want to see Australia’s not-so-cuddly animals, this is the place for you.

Here, you will learn all about Kangaroos, Wallabies, Wombats, and Dingoes, as well as Australia’s many reptiles, including Elvis the 4.75m crocodile and venomous snakes.

Exhibits

One of the most unique places here is the Weigel Venom Centre. Here, you will learn about Australia’s venomous snake program and Sydney’s Funnel-Web Spider. You can see the milking of venomous snakes to produce the much-needed anti-venom for the country, which has helped keep the snakebite death rate down.

What’s On

During certain months or school holidays, special activities are available. Check out what’s on when you plan to visit.

Animal Encounters

If you want an unforgettable experience, then an animal encounter is for you.

Show Times

Join them for interactive talks and demonstrations every day! The knowledgeable zookeepers are not just reptile lovers—they’re experts in animal care and conservation. They’ll dive into the fascinating lives of our reptiles and share conservation tips for protecting these unique species in the wild. You can even have a chance to feed some of our critters!

Depending on when you visit — whether it’s a weekday, weekend, or school holiday — the show times change. To find the times to plan your day, click here.

Hours

9 am-5 pm every day except Christmas Day

Prices

To find your prices or book online, click here.

How To Get Here

The Australian Reptile Park is located at Somersby on the Central Coast of NSW, just over an hour’s drive from Sydney. Take the Gosford exit off the M1 Freeway and follow the signs to the Reptile Park. For more options, visit the Plan Your Visit page.

Taronga Western Plains Zoo, Dubbo

If you visit one zoo in New South Wales, then the Western Plains Zoo in Dubbo is it. It is located 5 hours northwest of Sydney and is an open-range facility, meaning the animals have plenty of space to roam (no cages). You can drive, walk or cycle around this 6 km road, stopping at enclosures along the way.

The Western Plains Zoo is the sister zoo to Taronga in Sydney, but it is significantly larger. The enclosures here are wider expanses of land, providing the animals with more room to wander while still being visible to you.

If you’re fit enough, cycling or walking is the best way to get around this vast area. You can hire bikes or carts and park your car in the extensive car parks at the entrance, or drive to the special car parks to walk to the animals in each section.

Cafes, eateries, and picnic areas are dotted around the zoo to keep you refreshed during your day of exploration.

The Western Plains Zoo emphasises conservation, and babies are born regularly.

From February 2024, you will have the chance to see a Platypus in its purpose-built new enclosure.

I have been to the Zoo twice, and the first time, I stayed overnight at the Billabong Camp. I had tours, breakfast, dinner, and bike hire, and I also drove around the zoo. It was the best way to get the most out of your time here.

The second time, I walked around the whole park, which I wouldn’t recommend unless you’re really fit and the weather is on your side. Even if you drive around, there are plenty of opportunities to get a good walk-in, going from enclosure to enclosure and using the special car parks dotted around.

Make the most of your visit by downloading the App and having all the park information at your fingertips.

• An interactive map that shows your location, provides directions, and estimates the distance to nearby animals and facilities.
• See what’s on each day at the Zoo, including keeper talks, encounters and tours.
• Learn more about the amazing animals with fascinating facts and stories 
• Plan your day at the Zoo with pop-up reminders about keeper talks and tours that interest you. 
• Choose your own adventure, with self-guided tours that include all the highlights and must-see moments for a half-day, one-day or two-day Zoo visit.
• Learn about how you can act for the wild by making small changes in your life.

Zoo Accommodation

Your three accommodation options are the Zoofari Lodge, Savannah Cabins, and the Billabong Camp.

Animal Talks and More

To find out what’s on when you visit, including animal talks, click here.

Animal Encounters

You have the chance here if you’re after an Animal Encounter with your favourite animal. Go behind the scenes with a keeper to meet various African Animals and Sumatran tigers, learning and experiencing a lifetime of adventure.

Hours

• Daily, including Christmas Day
  • 09:00 am–04:00 pm

Prices

For prices of consecutive days and memberships, click here.

How To Get Here

Taronga Western Plains Zoo is situated 8 minutes south of Dubbo, off the Newell Highway on Obley Road. There are plenty of parking places at the entrance for cars, larger vehicles, and caravans, as well as parking spaces for cars around the zoo as you visit animal enclosures. For more information on transportation options to the zoo, click here.

Mogo Wildlife Park, Mogo

Mogo Wildlife Park is a delightful little zoo in Mogo, 4 hours south of Sydney.

I came upon Mogo Wildlife Park quite by accident while travelling up the South Coast of NSW, and was so glad I did.

Although it is small in area, it packs a punch with the animals you will see. Upon entering, the first animal I saw was a baby Gibbon playing.

For a small zoo, it packs a big punch with the array of different animals from around the world. Lions, Gorillas, Tigers and more are on this 70-acre property.

Animal Encounters

Want to get an up-close experience with your favourite animal? You can have an animal encounter here.

Want to give a Hyena a scratch? Meet a Binturong? Or have a Meerkat eating out of your hand? You can, and all you have to do is click on the link above and pick your animal to spend time with.

Animal Talks

To find the times of the animal encounters, talks or enclosure closing times, click here.

Hours

9 am – 4 pm daily.

Prices

Click their website, then click Buy Tickets to see the latest prices and plan your visit to Mogo Wildlife Park.

How To Get Here

Mogo Wildlife Park is located just outside Mogo, 4 hours south of Sydney, at 222 Tomakin Road.

National Zoo & Aquarium, Canberra

The National Zoo and Aquarium is one of Canberra’s must-visit family attractions.

The aquarium section is equally captivating, displaying an array of fascinating marine life. It is the largest inland saltwater aquarium in Australia. Watch in awe as colourful fish and majestic rays glide through the water, revealing the hidden beauty of our oceans. It’s a reminder of how important it is to care for our planet’s diverse ecosystems.

Daily Activities and Animal Talks

To help plan your day at the zoo, click on the link to see when there is something to interest you.

Tours and Encounters

At the National Zoo and Aquarium, you can take a tour or have an experience with your favourite animal. Enjoy the sun with the Sun Bear and learn all about their story, as well as getting up close with a Tiger or Lion or everyone’s favourite, the Meerkats.

Alternatively, you could take a tour and spend anything from two hours to all day exploring and learning; there is even an evening tour.

Stay at the Zoo

Want to sleep next to lions, tigers, cheetahs, or sun bears? See eye-to-eye with a giraffe? Or be entertained by meerkats and monkeys? You can stay the night in one of the luxury treehouses, bungalows or lodge.

Hours

9.30 am – 5.00 pm every day except Christmas Day.

Prices

Click here to find the prices, or from the homepage, click tickets to plan your visit.

How To Get Here

The National Zoo and Aquarium is located on Lady Denman Drive, Weston, about a 15-minute drive from Canberra city centre.

Conclusion

So, if you’re in New South Wales or Canberra, make sure to take time to visit the local zoos. Not only will you enjoy a day filled with fun, but you’ll also play a part in the ongoing efforts to protect our planet’s incredible wildlife. Grab your camera, bring your friends and family, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure.

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Links

If you’d like to read more of my blogs about Australia, you can find them at the following links: Queensland, South Australia, New South Wales, Victoria, Camping, and Silo Art. Alternatively, if you’re interested in New Zealand, the United Kingdom, or Photography, you can click the links for each.

Travel Resources

• Flights & Accommodation—You can search for the cheapest flights and accommodation using Booking.com, Tripadvisor, and WayAway, which offers 5% cashback.
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• Travel Insurance is the number one thing to pack when you’re travelling. Cover-More Australia, Cover-More New Zealand, EKTA, Travel Insurance Master, and Insubuy provide insurance coverage during your travels.
• Attractions—buy before you leave home with these great sites: Big Bus Tour, Get Your Guide, GoCity and Viator.
• Visa Applications—apply online for your visa requirements with iVisa.
• SIM cards—Try Airalo, the world’s first eSIM store, which solves the pain of high roaming bills by giving travellers access to eSIMs (digital SIM cards).
• Power Stations—Bluetti Australia Power Stations are your choices for sustainable, eco-friendly power on the go or at home.

• For more tips, try my Travel Links and Resources page.

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