10 Best Zoos In Australia

Written by Joeri Van Overloop

Remember Steve Irwin inspiring us with his love for animals? Yes, that spirit lives on in many corners of Australia! The country boasts rare animal species found nowhere else in the world and some truly remarkable zoological parks.

Whether you're a local or planning your next vacation down under, this zoos list detailing the best zoos in Australia will surely aid you as a guide to experience nature at its finest.

1. Taronga Zoo Sydney

Taronga Zoo in Sydney is one of the most popular and well-known zoos in Australia. It is located in the suburb of Mosman on the shores of beautiful Sydney Harbor. This top zoo cares for over 5,000 animals from over 350 species, many of which are threatened.

One of the highlights of Taronga Zoo is its stunning location. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of Sydney Harbour and the city skyline while exploring the zoo's many animal habitats. Some of the most popular animals at the zoo include koalas, kangaroos, crocodile, penguins, nocturnal animals such as foxes,owls and bats, and exotic birds.

In addition to its impressive collection of animals, Sydney Zoo is also dedicated to wildlife conservation and protection. The zoo participates in various breeding programs and research projects aimed at preserving endangered animals and their habitats.

Visitors can also enjoy a variety of experiences at Taronga Zoo, including keeper talks, animal encounters, and behind-the-scenes tours. The zoo offers a range of dining options, from casual cafes to a waterfront restaurant with fantastic views.

Admission tickets to Taronga Zoo Sydney can be purchased online or at the gate. The zoo is easily accessible by ferry, with regular services departing from Circular Quay. Shuttle buses are also available from the zoo's entrance to the central business district and other popular tourist destinations.

Contact:

Address: Bradleys Head Rd, Mosman NSW 2088, Australia

Phone: +61 2 9969 2777

2. Melbourne Zoo

Melbourne Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in Australia and is situated in the heart of the city. The zoo is home to over 5000 animals from over 300 species. The zoo is spread over 22 hectares of land and has a variety of animal habitats, including those for exotic animals such as rhinos and zebras.

The Melbourne Zoo is well-known for its Australian animal exhibits, which include kangaroos, koalas, wallabies, wombats, crocodile, and lizards. The zoo also has an orangutan experience, where visitors can get up close and personal with these amazing animals.

The zoo offers a range of tours and experiences, including a twilight tour and a bird display. Visitors can also take a tram ride around the zoo or enjoy a 3-course dinner at the on-site restaurant.

Melbourne Zoo is not just a place to see animals, it is also a place to learn about conservation and wildlife protection. The zoo has a strong focus on conservation and has many programs in place to help protect endangered species. Guests can also volunteer at the zoo and help with conservation efforts.

The entry fee to the zoo is reasonable and there are discounts for children and seniors. The zoo is open every day of the year except for Christmas Day.

Contact:

Address: Elliott Ave, Parkville VIC 3052, Australia

Phone: +61 1300 966 784

3. Adelaide Zoo

Adelaide Zoo is one of the best zoo experiences in Australia, located in the middle of the city's central business district. Adelaide zoo is home to more than 3,000 animals and 250 species of exotic and native mammals, birds, reptiles, and fish exhibited over eight hectares of magnificent botanic surroundings. The zoo is open every day of the year from 9:30 am to 5 pm.

One of the highlights of Adelaide Zoo is its wildlife protection and conservation efforts. They have a range of animal habitats, including a new $40 million state-of-the-art panda and orangutan experience. The zoo also has a bird display, where visitors can see a variety of Australian and exotic birds.

Adelaide Zoo offers a range of tours and experiences, including a twilight tour, where visitors can see the animals after hours, and a behind-the-scenes tour of the zoo's animal hospital. They also have a volunteer program, where people can get involved in conservation efforts and animal care.

The zoo has a variety of Australian animals, including kangaroos, koalas, and lizards. Visitors can also see exotic animals such as rhinos and zebras.

The zoo has several food options, including a restaurant and snack bars. Visitors can also take a tram or shuttle to the zoo, and ferry tickets are available for those who want to arrive by water.

Contact:

Address: Frome Rd, Adelaide SA 5000, Australia

Phone: +61 8 8267 3255

4. Taronga Western Plains Zoo

I recently visited Taronga Western Plains Zoo in Dubbo and was blown away by the incredible variety of wildlife on display. This zoo is a must-visit for any animal lover, with over 4,000 animals from more than 350 species, including some of Australia's most iconic animals like kangaroos and koalas.

One of the things I loved about Dubbo’s Western Plains zoo was the focus on conservation and protection of wildlife. Many of the animals at Taronga Western Plains Zoo are endangered, and the zoo is actively involved in breeding programs to help ensure their survival. The animal habitats are designed to mimic their natural environments, providing a comfortable and enriching space for them to live in.

During my visit, I was able to take part in some amazing experiences, like the bird display and keeper talks. I also went on a twilight tour, which was a unique and unforgettable way to see the animals after hours.

In terms of facilities, the zoo has plenty of food options and a great restaurant with views of the animal enclosures. The entry fee is reasonable, and there are options for admission tickets and tours that suit different budgets and preferences.

Contact:

Address: Obley Rd, Dubbo NSW 2830, Australia

Phone: +61 2 6881 1400

5. Werribee Open Range Zoo

I have done some research on the best Australian zoos, and the Werribee Open Range Zoo is definitely one of the top contenders. Situated just half an hour outside of Melbourne, this zoo offers visitors an amazing African adventure.

One of the unique features of this amazing zoo is that it is set on 225 hectares of wide, open savannah. This means that visitors get to see the animals in a more natural environment, rather than in cramped cages. The zoo is home to a wide range of African animals, including lions, giraffes, zebras, rhinos, and more.

One of the highlights of the Werribee Open Range Zoo is the safari tour. Visitors can take a guided tour of the savannah and see the animals up close. The tour is led by experienced guides who provide interesting and informative commentary about the animals and their habitats.

In addition to the safari tour, the zoo also offers a range of other activities. Visitors can watch animal feedings, attend animal meets, and even stay over at the zoo in a glamping tent on the savannah.

Contact:

Address: K Rd, Werribee South VIC 3030, Australia

Phone: +61 1300 966 784

6. Hunter Valley Zoo

The Hunter Valley Zoo is situated in Nulkaba, a small town in the Hunter Valley region of New South Wales. It is a privately owned zoo, supported by local families and businesses.

The zoo houses over 250 animals, including native Australian wildlife and exotic species from around the world. Some of the animals you can see at Hunter Valley Zoo include kangaroos, koalas, Tasmanian devils, meerkats, monkeys, and reptiles.

One of the highlights of my visit was the animal encounters. The zoo offers various animal greets, where you can get up close and personal with some of the animals. I had the opportunity to feed and pat a kangaroo, hold a python, and meet a meerkat.

The zoo also offers an Ultimate Explorer Pass, which gives you access to see all the animals up close and a behind-the-scenes tour of the zoo. If you're planning to visit the zoo, I highly recommend getting the Ultimate Explorer Pass.

Contact:

Address: 138 Lomas Ln, Nulkaba NSW 2325, Australia

Phone: +61 2 9622 1644

7. Phillip Island Nature Park

I have to say, Phillip Island Nature Park is one of my favorite zoos in Australia. Located just a couple hours' drive from Melbourne, this park offers visitors the chance to see a wide variety of animals in their natural habitats.

One of the highlights of the park is the Penguin Parade, where travelers can watch as hundreds of little penguins make their way back to their burrows after a day of fishing in the ocean. It's an incredible sight to see, and definitely not to be missed.

But that's not all there is to see at Phillip Island Wildlife Park. The park is also home to a number of other animals, including koalas, wallabies, echidnas, and more.

Contact:

Address: 154/156 Thompson Ave, Cowes VIC 3922, Australia

Phone: +61 3 5951 2800

8. Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

As the world's first and largest koala sanctuary, Lone Pine is a must-visit for anyone interested in Australian wildlife.

One of the main highlights of the sanctuary is the opportunity to hold and cuddle a koala. This experience is not to be missed and is sure to be a highlight of any visit to Lone Pine. In addition to koalas, visitors can also hand-feed kangaroos and meet a variety of other Australian wildlife in beautiful, natural settings.

For those looking for an even more in-depth experience, Lone Pine offers a Koala Encounter Tour for $150 per person. This 60-minute tour takes visitors behind the scenes to see koala exhibits and provides the opportunity to cuddle a koala.

I would highly recommend visiting Lone Pine early in the morning when the kangaroos are most active and hungry for breakfast. This is also the least crowded time to visit the sanctuary, allowing for a more intimate and enjoyable experience.

Contact:

Address: 708 Jesmond Rd, Fig Tree Pocket QLD 4069, Australia

Phone: +61 7 3378 1366

9. Monarto Zoo

Monarto Zoo, also known as Monarto Safari Park, is the largest open-range zoo in Australia, covering an area of 1,500 hectares. It is situated in South Australia, and it is administered by the Royal Zoological Society of South Australia.

The zoo is home to over 500 animals from 50 different species, including exotic African and Australian native animals. Some of the animals that can be seen at Monarto Zoo include lions, cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, rhinoceroses, and many more.

Visitors can enjoy a range of activities at the zoo, such as guided tours, animal encounters, and feeding experiences. The zoo also has several dining options, including a café and a restaurant.

In 2023, Monarto Zoo won the top prize for the best major tourist attraction in South Australia at the SA Tourism Awards. The zoo is also a member of Zoos South Australia, which means that visitors with an annual membership can enjoy unlimited visits to Adelaide Zoo, Monarto Safari Park, and most major Australian zoos for 365 days a year.

Contact:

Address: 63 Monarto Rd, Monarto SA 5254, Australia

Phone: +61 8 8534 4100

10. Perth Zoo

Perth Zoo is one of the best Australian zoos and wildlife parks. It is located just 5 minutes from the city center and offers a unique experience for visitors of all ages. The zoo is home to over 1,200 animals from around the world, including many endangered species.

One of the main attractions of Perth Zoo is the Australian Bushwalk exhibit, which showcases some of Australia's most iconic wildlife, including kangaroos, wallabies, and koalas. Visitors can also see African lions, Asian elephants, and Sumatran tigers in the zoo's other exhibits.

Perth Zoo is committed to conservation and has several breeding programs for endangered species, including the Western Swamp Tortoise and the Numbat. The zoo also participates in international breeding programs for animals such as the Sumatran Orangutan and the African Painted Dog.

In addition to its animal exhibits, Perth Zoo in Western Australia offers a range of activities and experiences for visitors, including behind-the-scenes tours, animal encounters, and educational programs for children and adults.

Contact:

Address: 20 Labouchere Rd, South Perth WA 6151, Australia

Phone: +61 8 9474 0444