Werribee Open Range Zoo
Werribee Open Range Zoo things to do, attractions, restaurants, events info and trip planning
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Melbourne with Kids: 5 Days of Autumn Adventures๐๐จ๐ฉ๐ง๐ฆ
Zara Kaylee
202
This is BIG. Werribee Open Range Zoo just dropped one of their biggest upgrades ever โ and we were blown away by how good it is! The Elephant Trail is officially open, and itโs so much more than just a pretty path. Think: camels, nyalas, ostriches, zebras and more โ all without needing to hop on the safari truck. Itโs a huge win for families too: โ๏ธ A full hour-long trail (great to get your steps in for the day) โ๏ธ Gorgeous new viewing spots โ including some very up-close elephant moments โ๏ธ Loads of shady nature play stops โ๏ธ Brand new cafรฉ with heaps of seating and room for picnics โ๏ธ Plenty of space to take a breather And the best part? This move is incredible for the elephantsโ wellbeing. Theyโve now got more space to roam, more enrichment, and letโs be honestโฆ they look SO happy. If youโve got little animal lovers at home โ this is your sign to go! ๐ Werribee Open Range Zoo, K Rd, Werribee South VIC 3030 Open every day from 9amโ5pm Hot tip: the trail opened today at 9.45am. Arrive at opening time so you can see the elephants roam over the bridges from their stables to the enclosures. @Zoos Victoria #melbournewithkids #werribeezoo #elephanttrail #melbournefamilyfun #melbournezoo #werribeeopenrangezoo #thingstodoinmelbourne #schoolholidayfun #melbournemums #kidsactivitiesmelbourne #zooexperience #elephantencounter #animaladventuresmelbourneparents
melbournewithsiri
67611
Werribee Zoo is absolutely fantastic. There's so much space to let the animals roam, and so many different kinds of enrichment available for them. Every single staff member that we've interacted with at our numerous visits has been so obviously passionate, knowledgeable and kind to every animal - from the informative and engaging keeper talks to the way that they stop to say hi to the little willy wagtail birds that flit all over the zoo. And the people working at the ticket booths, cafes and in the zoo shop have always been lovely and helpful, too. Being able to sit at the Meerkat Cafe and watch the meerkats on one side and the gorillas on the other (depending on crowds) while eating lunch or drinking a coffee is great. The food and drink prices are steep, but they're good quality and a decent size. I do recommend bringing your own food and drinks from home, though, to save some money and to avoid having to wait in lines. The safari tour is an absolute highlight of every visit. You can see so many amazing animals, and a lot of the guides add hilarious puns and jokes to their informative spiels. Michael was the tour guide on our latest visit and had our whole bus cracking up (which is a particular feat, as one carriage was full of a group visiting from a retirement village and another carriage was full of children visiting from a kindergarten, on top of the usual mix of general public). My mum said he was "the best tour guide we've ever had." There's plenty of little play spaces to keep kids engaged all over the zoo; there's multiple rope and 'obstacle' courses, little winding side paths through greenery that run alongside the main walking paths, 'ant hills' to climb over, sandpits and there's even a little water play pad section near the hippos. There's a model boat viewing platform at the hippos, too, and a model safari Jeep viewing platform at the lions, as well interactive cameras, speakers and so many little things to look at at the other enclosures and along the paths. There's also a little maze which explores how domestic cats are much safer when kept inside and not allowed to roam freely, which is a fun detour as well as having an important message. Definitely go in the morning if you want to catch the keeper talks, and go on a weekday during school terms if you can. The walkways are spacious and there's plenty of places to get food and sit and eat during the peak times, but the windows and viewing platforms for the enclosures can get crowded during weekends and school holidays. Not to the point where you won't be able to see anything though - if you can only go on a peak day, definitely still go! - you might just have to wait a bit to get to the front. The elephant enclosure is due to open in a few months, and is going to be incredible. We'll absolutely be coming back to see it once it's finished and the elephants have moved to their new home!
Ashlee Pond
00
๐ ๐ช๐๐๐ ๐๐๐ฉ๐๐ก๐ง๐จ๐ฅ๐ ๐๐ง ๐ช๐๐ฅ๐ฅ๐๐๐๐ ๐ข๐ฃ๐๐ก ๐ฅ๐๐ก๐๐ ๐ญ๐ข๐ข - ๐ ๐ ๐จ๐ฆ๐ง ๐ฉ๐๐ฆ๐๐ง! ๐ช๐๐ฅ๐ฅ๐๐๐๐ ๐ข๐ฃ๐๐ก ๐ฅ๐๐ก๐๐ ๐ญ๐ข๐ข is an absolute gem of a destination, offering a truly immersive and unforgettable wildlife experience just a short drive from Melbourne. Unlike traditional zoos, Werribeeโs open-range concept allows visitors to witness animals in vast, naturalistic habitats that closely resemble their native environments. From the moment you step inside, youโre transported into an African savannah, teeming with life and adventure. ๐ง๐๐ ๐ฆ๐๐๐๐ฅ๐ ๐ง๐ข๐จ๐ฅ - ๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ง ๐ก๐ข๐ง ๐ง๐ข ๐๐ ๐ ๐๐ฆ๐ฆ๐๐! One of the standout experiences is the Safari Bus Tour, which takes guests on an incredible journey through sprawling grasslands where ๐ด๐ถ๐ฟ๐ฎ๐ณ๐ณ๐ฒ๐, ๐ฟ๐ต๐ถ๐ป๐ผ๐, ๐ญ๐ฒ๐ฏ๐ฟ๐ฎ๐, ๐ฎ๐ป๐ฑ ๐ฎ๐ป๐๐ฒ๐น๐ผ๐ฝ๐ฒ๐ roam freely. The knowledgeable guides provide fascinating insights into each species, their behaviors, and the zooโs conservation efforts. Seeing these majestic animals up close in such an open setting is awe-inspiringโitโs as close as you can get to an ๐๐๐ฅ๐๐๐๐ก ๐ฆ๐๐๐๐ฅ๐ without leaving Australia! ๐จ๐ฃ - ๐๐๐ข๐ฆ๐ ๐๐ก๐๐ ๐๐ ๐๐ก๐๐ข๐จ๐ก๐ง๐๐ฅ๐ฆ For those who want an even more intimate experience, Werribee offers ๐๐ซ๐๐๐จ๐ฆ๐๐ฉ๐ ๐๐ก๐๐ข๐จ๐ก๐ง๐๐ฅ๐ฆ with some of its most iconic animals. Whether itโs feeding a giraffe, getting nose-to-nose with a rhino, or seeing the playful meerkats up close, these experiences make for unforgettable moments and incredible photo opportunities. The Lions on the Edge exhibit is another breathtaking experience, giving visitors the chance to observe these powerful predators through specially designed viewing areas that bring you closer than ever. ๐ ๐ฃ๐๐ฅ๐๐๐๐ง ๐๐๐ฌ ๐๐ข๐ฅ ๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐ฆ ๐๐ก๐ ๐ก๐๐ง๐จ๐ฅ๐ ๐๐ข๐ฉ๐๐ฅ๐ฆ ๐ช๐๐ฅ๐ฅ๐๐๐๐ ๐ข๐ฃ๐๐ก ๐ฅ๐๐ก๐๐ ๐ญ๐ข๐ข is a fantastic destination for families. The spacious layout makes it easy to explore with kids, and there are plenty of interactive activities to keep them engaged. The ๐ฅ๐๐ก๐๐๐ฅ ๐๐๐๐ฆ ๐ฃ๐๐๐ฌ ๐ฆ๐ฃ๐๐๐ allows young adventurers to role-play as veterinarians and wildlife rangers, adding an educational and fun element to the visit. The zoo also offers pram-friendly paths, picnic areas, and a great cafรฉ serving delicious food with stunning views. ๐๐ข๐ ๐ ๐๐ง๐ ๐๐ก๐ง ๐ง๐ข ๐๐ข๐ก๐ฆ๐๐ฅ๐ฉ๐๐ง๐๐ข๐ก ๐๐ก๐ ๐ฆ๐จ๐ฆ๐ง๐๐๐ก๐๐๐๐๐๐ง๐ฌ What sets ๐ช๐๐ฅ๐ฅ๐๐๐๐ ๐ข๐ฃ๐๐ก ๐ฅ๐๐ก๐๐ ๐ญ๐ข๐ข apart is its strong commitment to wildlife conservation. The zoo plays a crucial role in protecting endangered species and supporting global conservation programs. By visiting, youโre directly contributing to these efforts, making the experience even more meaningful. ๐๐๐ก๐๐ ๐ฉ๐๐ฅ๐๐๐๐ง ๐ช๐๐ฅ๐ฅ๐๐๐๐ ๐ข๐ฃ๐๐ก ๐ฅ๐๐ก๐๐ ๐ญ๐ข๐ข is a must-visit for animal lovers, families, and adventure seekers alike. With its open-range concept, incredible animal encounters, and strong conservation message, it offers a unique and enriching experience that leaves a lasting impact. Whether youโre a local or a tourist, this zoo is well worth a visitโitโs an escape into the wild, right in Victoriaโs backyard! โญ๏ธโญ๏ธโญ๏ธโญ๏ธโญ๏ธ 5/5 โ Highly recommended!
JAMES GAUCHAN
00
Werribee Open Range Zoo in Melbourne is an absolute gem for nature and wildlife enthusiasts. Set in a sprawling 225-hectare reserve, the zoo offers a truly immersive experience, combining a safari-like adventure with world-class conservation efforts. From the moment you step inside, you're transported to a vast African savanna, with open spaces where animals roam freely. The zoo is home to a stunning array of animals, including giraffes, rhinos, zebras, lions, and meerkats, all living in spacious enclosures that replicate their natural habitats. The Werribee Safari Tour is a highlight, taking visitors on a guided tour through the savanna, providing up-close views of these magnificent creatures in a setting unlike any traditional zoo. What sets Werribee apart is its focus on conservation and education. The staff is incredibly knowledgeable, offering fascinating insights into the behavior, conservation efforts, and the importance of protecting wildlife and their ecosystems. The zoo also does an amazing job of highlighting the connection between animals and their habitats, making the experience both fun and educational for visitors of all ages. The zoo's visitor facilities are top-notch, from clean and well-maintained pathways to ample picnic areas for families to relax. Thereโs also a fantastic cafรฉ offering a variety of meals and snacks, making it easy to spend a full day enjoying the park. For those seeking a more hands-on experience, there are animal encounters available, which allow you to get up close with some of the animals and learn more about their care and conservation. The zoo is also known for its family-friendly atmosphere, with plenty of interactive exhibits and play areas for children. Whether you're a local or a visitor, Werribee Open Range Zoo is a must-see attraction in Melbourne. It's the perfect destination for anyone wanting to connect with nature, learn about wildlife conservation, and witness some of the planetโs most incredible animals in a stunning, open-range environment. This zoo is truly a world-class experience and a fantastic day out for the whole family!
Sandra Pouladi
00
A Day at Werribee Open Range Zoo: A Hidden Gem If youโre looking for a delightful family outing, I canโt recommend Werribee Open Range Zoo enough. Just a short drive from Melbourne, this place quickly became one of our favorite spots for adventure, education, and fun in a beautiful outdoor setting. An African Safari Experience One of the highlights of our visit was the incredible African safari experience. As we embarked on the guided tour, we were surrounded by majestic animals like giraffes, rhinos, and zebras roaming freely in expansive savannah-like enclosures. It was thrilling to see these magnificent creatures up closeโmy kids were absolutely mesmerized! Meeting Australiaโs Unique Wildlife Werribee Zoo also showcases some of Australiaโs most iconic wildlife. We loved spotting Emu, Kangaroos and Koalas, and it was a fantastic opportunity to learn about the unique species that call Australia home. Provided an opportunity for kids to engage with the animals safely, and encourages interest in wildlife and conservation. Family-Friendly Amenities What I really appreciated about Werribee Zoo is how family-friendly it is. There are plenty of activity areas for children to explore, including play zones. We found several picnic areas scattered throughout the zoo, which made it easy to take a break and enjoy a meal surrounded by nature. Conclusion: A Perfect Family Day Out Overall, Werribee Open Range Zoo is more than just a zoo; itโs an experience that brings families together. With engaging activities, educational opportunities, and breathtaking animal encounters, itโs no wonder this place feels like a hidden gem to us. So if youโre planning a family day out, pack your picnic basket and get ready for an unforgettable day filled with adventure and discovery!
S Dew
00
Nearby Attractions Of Werribee Open Range Zoo
Victoria State Rose Garden
Werribee Park
Werribee Park Mansion
Safari Station
Rose Garden
Werribee Visitor Information Centre
Werribee Park Mansion/Main Dr
Victoria State Rose Garden
4.7
(1.1K)
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Werribee Park
4.7
(849)
Click for details
Werribee Park Mansion
4.6
(748)
Click for details
Safari Station
4.7
(186)
Click for details
Nearby Restaurants Of Werribee Open Range Zoo
Meerkat Bistro
Joseph's Restaurant
Werribee Zoo Souvenir Shop and Restaurant
Meerkat Bistro
3.3
(132)
Click for details
Joseph's Restaurant
3.4
(124)
$$$
Click for details
Werribee Zoo Souvenir Shop and Restaurant
4.1
(9)
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Learn more insights from Wanderboat AIBasic Info
Address
K Rd, Werribee South VIC 3030, Australia
Map
Phone
+61 1300 966 784
Call
Website
zoo.org.au
Visit
Reviews
Overview
4.5
(6.2K reviews)
Ratings & Description
outdoor
adventure
family friendly
Description
Werribee Open Range Zoo is an African themed zoo in Werribee, about 32 kilometres south-west of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. It is part of the Zoological Parks and Gardens Board or Zoos Victoria, which also includes Melbourne Zoo and Healesville Sanctuary.
attractions: Victoria State Rose Garden, Werribee Park, Werribee Park Mansion, Safari Station, Rose Garden, Werribee Visitor Information Centre, Werribee Park Mansion/Main Dr, restaurants: Meerkat Bistro, Joseph's Restaurant, Werribee Zoo Souvenir Shop and Restaurant
