how long to visit sydney zoo

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Important information for your visit.

Taronga Zoo Sydney is open in Winter from - 9.30am to 4.30pm (May to August) and in Summer from 9:30am to 5:00pm (September to April) Find all the practical information you need to plan your visit, all in one place. Learn how to get to Taronga Zoo, where to eat and drink and learn about accessibility. It takes about 3 hours to explore Taronga Zoo, so ensure you plan ahead by reading the information below.

Taronga Zoo Sydney is located on Bradleys Head Road in Mosman, right on Sydney Harbour and easily accessible from the Sydney CBD.

Rates and concessions

Find out all you need to know about individual, group and concession rates plus gift voucher purchases for visits to Taronga Zoo Sydney.

Download the app

Download the Taronga Zoo Sydney app to plan your day before you visit, find your way around, learn about our animals and join our Wild Squad missions.

In addition to being home to all of our animals, Taronga Zoo Sydney offers a range of facilities to visitors including cafes and eateries, picnic areas, free WiFi, ATMs, a parents room, public bathrooms and first aid throughout the Zoo.

You can find each of these facilities on our Zoo map, along with the location of all of your favourite animals. 

Food and drink

Enjoy cafe favourites, lunch with a view or bring your own picnic.

Taronga has a range of food and drink options to suit everyone.

Autism services

Taronga understands that guests have varying needs and may require special assistance during their visit.

Read about our autism services, find out when we'll be holding our next Access Taronga day and download our social story to help children with autism understand what to expect during their visit.

Accessibility

Taronga Zoo has Accessible Parking, registration for Assistance Dogs, Wheelchair Access, Mobility Scooter and Wheelchair Hire and more.

Closures and works

We're working towards a positive future for wildlife and this means that sometimes there could be closures or works ongoing that may impact your experience. Make sure you check our closures and works page for the latest updates. 

Cashless Zoo

Taronga Zoo Sydney is a 'cashless' operation, but this won't impact your experience as a guest when visiting the Zoo. Learn more below.

We proudly Acknowledge the Cammeraigal (Taronga Zoo, Sydney) and Wiradjuri (Taronga Western Plains Zoo, Dubbo) people, their Country, spirit and traditions as customary owners of the lands upon which our Zoos stand.

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How much time to spend at Taronga? - Sydney Forum

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How much time to spend at Taronga?

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I have most everything worked out timing wise but have a question about how long I should spend at the zoo. It will be 2 able bodied adults (no kids).

My plan for that day was to take a ferry from CQ and arrive at the zoo area about 9:00am (zoo opens at 9 30). I will buy my tickets online..hopefully that allows us to take the gondola when they open.*** Is this the case? ***

We were going to stay until around 1:30, take a ferry back to CQ, then the ferry over to Manly to spend a couple of hours. We want to walk to Shelley Beach and plan to take th 5:45 ferry back to CQ. We timed it so we could see the Sydney Vivid lights on the ferry back to CQ.

I chose this timing based on readings that the zoo could easily be done in 4 hours. However I just read post where they suggested you really need a full day there.

We are not looking to do a run through but instead really want to enjoy the animals and surroundings at a casual pace and not feel rushed. I do not think we will be doing any encounters, but would want to do some keeper talks. How long is a reasonable amount of time to spend there? Does my timing make sense?

Thank you so much.

I would always allow a full day for a zoo, any zoo. Spent a full day at Moonlit Sanctuary which is quite small, but what with keeper talks and the animals themselves, the time flew. Happily spent 5 full days at a bird park in Germany, so maybe I'm not the best person to talk.

I am happy to spend most of the day there ... generally I would leave around 3ish ... however I don't generally have anywhere to go to after so that's makes a difference. Make sure you see the bird show.

Without kids I think your itinerary is doable although a little rushed but at least your seeing the things you want to see. Enjoy !

For travel info - see the links below

https://www.myfastferry.com.au/buy-tickets/taronga-zoo/.

This post has been removed at the author's request.

Great information...thank you all :)

I did not realize there was a ferry from the zoo to Manly...that may shave off some time. I checked the timetable and it seems I can catch either the 1:20 or 2:52 ferry to Manly. It does go to Watson Bay first, thus it takes almost 40 minutes. I will go check the regular ferries via CQ as well to see what makes more sense with our timing.

If we had more time I would dedicate an entire day to the zoo, but if I do I think we would have to drop Manly off our list. And I would really like to keep Manly for a few reasons...the scenic ferry ride from CQ to Manly, to actually have a quick visit to Manly Beach and Shelly Beach/lookout, and to enjoy the night ferry back to see Vivid lights.

Don't stress. Your plan is doable. Maybe massage it a little bit so you have a little more time at the zoo but you can do zoo and Manly in one day. Just don't try to see everything at both places and go with the flow and what time you have on hand.

You do not need a full day if you dont want. I saw the entire zoo in four hours. With young children i would want at least 5 hours. None of this includes transit time though.

Great...thank you.

Good to know we can see most/all of it in 4 hours. We will keep our original plan and decide when we get there which ferry works best to get to Manly based on ferry times.

https://taronga.org.au/sydney-zoo/shows-and-keeper-talks/bird-show

Read up on the zoo in advance. If you want to attend more than one show or do the animal encounters you should add in a bit of time for that. Four hours is the base time to see all the animals and a couple of brief talks. Id add in additional time to compensate for more involved activities.

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Taronga Zoo Sydney| The best zoo in Australia

Things to do in Sydney Sydney Attractions Sydney Zoos & Aquariums Taronga Zoo

Located at Mosman, the Taronga Zoo Sydney is a top attraction in Sydney and one of the most famous wildlife parks in the Australian continent. The diversity of species it homes, the wild experiences it offers along with spectacular views of Sydney Harbour Bridge, the Sydney Opera House and the City’s skyline makes it a unique adventure.

With around 1.5 million visits every year, the Taronga Zoo is one of the best places to sight in Australia. It has been a home to over 4000 animals of different species for over a century and is spread across 28 hectare (69 acres). Taronga Zoo tickets offers a wide variety of experiences like Tiger Trek, Elephant Trail, Serpentarium ,Explore iconic and unknown Australian fauna and much more. Their vision is to secure an intact future for wildlife and people.

Why Visit Taronga Zoo in Sydney

Taronga Zoo aims to consistently enhance the animal habitats while striving to raise their visitor experiences. They enclose a cafe, a zoo shop and information centre. The zoo is divided into 8 zoo-geographic regions. You can also find the nearly threatened species of Platypusesin here. You can meet animals like kangaroos and wallabies which are a part of native Australian wildlife, which are allowed to freely roam around as you pass by. Taronga zoo also witnessed Australia’s first elephant birth when an Asian elephant named Thong Dee gave birth to a male calf. It is also home to Sumatran tigers which are critically endangered with fewer than 350 individuals alive all over the globe. One of the Zoo’s most loved landscape features is the “Rustic Bridge”, a romantic pathway concealed by plants.

Taronga Zoo in a Nutshell

Taronga zoo opening hours.

• The zoo is open from 9 AM to 4:30 PM on all days of the week.
• The Zoo is open everyday, even on Christmas eve.
• The recommended time to spend at the zoo is 4 hours to as long as you want to experience it and its landscapes completely. Make sure you check the official Taronga Zoo Sydney website before you visit.

Plan Your Visit

• Take a 15 minute ferry ride from Circular Quay to Taronga Zoo which departs every 30 minutes.
• Captain Cook Cruises depart everyday from Darling Harbour and Circular Quay.
• Fantasea Cruising Sydney takes a ride twice everyday from either Darling Harbour or Circular Quay.
• Take the M30 metro bus to Taronga zoo from central, Town Hall and Wynyard train stations.
• Join the M30 to the Zoo by Northern Suburb Bus routes from either Spit Junction or Mosman Junction.
• Passengers arriving or leaving by the ferry can take 238 bus route that travels between Balmoral Beach, Taronga Zoo entrance and Taronga ferry wharf.
• Take a train to the Circular Quay to catch a ferry ride to Taronga Zoo.
• Parking is available all day at the entrance all day long at the rate of $18.
• The height of car park is a maximum of 2.1m.

Taronga Zoo Sydney Location and Directions

Taronga Zoo Sydney: Insider Tips for Avoiding the Crowd

• Book your tickets in advance to avoid standing in the queue at the gate.
• The best time to visit, according to the weather would be in August to early November since the weather is neither too hot nor cold.
• If you are visiting the zoo at the peak of summer or winter, make sure to wear weather appropriate clothes (rain jacket, hat, sunglasses,etc.)
• To avoid large crowds choose to visit the zoo on weekdays and on non public holidays.
• Make sure to check the official Taronga Zoo website for updates a day prior to your visit.

Taronga Zoo Sydney Tickets

Taronga zoo sydney: top experiences.

If you're planning a visit to immerse yourself in nature and wildlife, here are the top highlights of visiting Taronga Zoo in Sydney .

Watch and be amused as the poise seals play around in their dynamic exhibit. Species such as Australian sea lion, Californian sea lion, and New Zealand fur seal perform their natural abilities while you learn about their natural habitat.

• Free with the zoo ticket.
• When: 11 AM and 12 PM everyday and 1 PM on weekends
• Duration: 20 minutes.
• Catch your seats early as the show fills up soon.

Chimpanzee Keeper Talk

Observe the features of the Chimpanzees as they have their noon feed as a family. The keeper will tell you the changes a baby chimp goes through as they become an adult, what destroys their habitat and how you can help them in small ways.

• When: 12 PM everyday
• Duration: 10 minutes.
• Take a seat early as they fill soon.

Penguin Talk

Image Courtesy:Taronga Zoo Sydney Official Website

You know a penguin’s natural habitat, but do you know how they live in a climate as dynamic as Australia’s? Learn all about these cute creature’s life, how they get treated when they fall sick and what they like to gobble up from the keeper.

• When : 2:40 PM everyday
• Duration :10 minutes
• Book your seats before it gets taken.

Pat a petite and friendly animal of the Taronga Zoo for 30 minutes non stop. The keepers will tell you all you need to know about chosing the best pet for you to how to care for them when you bring them home.

• When: 10:30 AM everyday
• Duration: 30 minutes.
• Catch your seats before they fill up.

Soar over the Taronga Zoo across the Sydney Harbour and the Opera House as you try spotting the animals down below correctly. In case of any event of maintenance, extreme weather or Taronga deems it unsafe to operate, the experience will be closed.

• When: operates from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM everyday.
• Accessibility considerations : Cable Car’s wheelchairs can accommodate upto 610 meters. For guests with disabilities, a lift is available from ground level upto lower Sky Safari Terminal.

For the thrill of high altitudes, climb Wild Ropes, a course where you climb over the zoo itself and overlook the Sydney skyline. Find Kangaroos, Emus and Koalas below you as they wonder what you are up to.

• When: starts at 9: 30 AM everyday.
• For bookings click here.
• Open every day except Christmas day.

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Restaurants near Taronga Zoo Sydney

• Forage And Graze

Located at the Zoo’s entrance, Forage and Graze is a cafe that offers you amazing food and a great view of the wildlife. Location: Taronga Zoo entrance, Bradleys Head Road, Mosman, Sydney

The View is a restaurant that offers you a backdrop of the Harbour as you enjoy Australian cuisines. Location : 2a Bradleys Head Road, Taronga Zoo, Mosman, Sydney

• Taronga Food Market

The newly opened Taronga Food Market is a big space that serves selected contemporary hot and cold food options. Location: Taronga Zoo, Athol Wharf Road, Mosman, Sydney

Taronga Zoo Sydney Deals

Save AU$10 on your first booking with Headout when you use promo code GOAUS !

Taronga Zoo Sydney: Accommodation

Taronga Zoo offers multiple facilities for staying right there. From tranquil eco-lodges, glamping to plain camping - they have it all!

An all-new eco-retreat right in the middle of nature (duh!) is this lush sanctuary where koalas and echindas are aplenty. And oh, platypus too!

Inspired by the safari, this overnight experience features initimate animal encounters and keeper talks. With views of the Sydney Harbour, you're sure to leave this place in awe.

An overnight stay at the Taronga Western Plains Zoo Dubbo is nothing short of a once-in-a-lifetime experience. From staying in a lodge, cabin or going glamping - the world is your oyster. Or well, at least the zoo!

Taronga Zoo Sydney Map

Image Courtesy: Taronga Zoo Official

Facilities Available at Taronga Zoo Sydney

• Taronga Zoo has released a mobile application from which you can receive all kinds of information. You can plan your day before you visit, find your way around the zoo and learn about the animals on it.
• Taronga Zoo also includes cafes and eateries, picnic areas, free WIFI, ATMs, parents room, bathrooms, first aid, lockers, stroller hire and free water bubblers all around the zoo.
• Taronga Zoo understands their visitors need varying needs. On selected days throughout the year welcomes guests with autism and their family or friends to an early entry at 8 AM.

Insider Tips for visiting Taronga Zoo Sydney

• Knowing the timings of the experiences you would want to enjoy helps you plan your day better. Take time out and check on what you would like to do before hand.
• If you are bringing food yourself, you can find a lot of picnic spots around the zoo where you can ease and have a bite.
• The Taronga Zoo app is really helpful in finding your way around the zoo.
• Wearing comfortable clothes that's appropriate for the weather like rain jackets, hats, sunglasses,etc.
• Exploring the zoo can get tiring. Keep yourself hydrated by carrying water bottles.

Other zoos around Taronga Zoo

Wild life sydney zoo.

One of the best wildlife homes in Australia, Wild Life Sydney Zoo is located at the heart of Darling Harbour. They are famous for getting close looks of koalas, kangaroos, wombats, platypus and the largest reptile in the world, the saltwater crocodile. The walkway of Wild Life Sydney is around 1 kilometer with 75000 square feet of enclosure. With its 10 zones, Tasmanian devils, different species of snakes, butterflies, spiders and birds, WildLife Sydney Zoo is one of the most diverse zoos in Australia. It is also the only zoo that allows you to get as close as possible to a koala which is not possible in other zoos in Sydney or New South Wales.

Taronga Western Plains Zoo Dubbo

Located at Dubbo, New South Wales, Taronga Western Plains Zoo is a much larger zoo than its sister zoo at Sydney. Formerly an army camp at the World War Two, it was transformed into 300 hectare of zoo of woodlands and irrigated grasslands.Get close up to the lion pride or take a safari across their Savannah to meet the giraffe and eland. With activities such as Wild Herd, a zoofari with kids and bike hires, it sure is an adventurer and animal lover’s dream come true. With over 700 animals of 35 different species from six different countries, it is one of the best places to visit in New South Wales.

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How much do Taronga Zoo tickets cost?

Tickets for the Taronga Zoo start at AU$49, and change depending on if you choose to go for a combo ticket. 

How many animals are at Taronga Zoo?

The sixty nine acre Taronga Zoo Sydney is home to more than 2,600 animals of approximately 250 different species. 

Mind = Blown! 

How long does it take to go around Taronga Zoo?

The Taronga Zoo is HUGE, and is likely to take close to 4 to 5 hours if you want to see the whole thing. Although, it'd be much easier if you had the Taronga Zoo Map with you. It's the best way to get around! 

Do we have facilities for accommodation at Taronga Zoo?

Taronga Zoo offers multiple facilities for staying right there. From tranquil eco-lodges, glamping to plain camping - they have it all! 

Born and brought up in Bengaluru, Preetha is an introvert living amidst the toil of the metro, chasing her dreams. She is a movie buff, a bibliophile and is fond of old school music. She has an eye for aesthetics and can draw and paint as good as a ten-year-old. She has been passionate about writing since her teen years and is currently exploring herself and the world, one word at a time.

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9 must-see Sydney zoos and wildlife experiences

Kristie Lau-Adams

Travel Journalist

27 March 2024

Delight in the world’s most captivating critters at a Sydney zoo or wildlife park.

Stepping into any one of the incredible Sydney zoos and wildlife parks breathes life into children’s wildest imaginings. But these lush lodgings aren’t just for kids. Filled with fascinating creatures from across the globe, plus remarkable close-up encounters, overnight stays and interactive learning experiences, the city’s most excellent zoos are fit for the entire family. Here, our pick of Sydney’s best.

1. Taronga Zoo Sydney

The jewel in Sydney’s animal playground crown, Taronga Zoo Sydney , is an absolute must for so many reasons. Nestled on the cliffs at Mosman and offering some of the most iconic water views in the city, the Sydney zoo is Australia’s largest zoo and filled with the world’s most intriguing animals.

Taronga Zoo is renowned for its conservation work. (Image: Destination NSW)

But while more than 5000 animals including an Asian Elephant herd, giraffes, Sumatran tigers, African lions, koalas and kangaroos captivate visitors, there’s also a lot of outstanding conservation research happening behind the scenes.

Experience one of Sydney’s most iconic sights for yourself at Taronga Zoo. (Image: Destination NSW)

And speaking of behind the scenes, guests are invited to stay the night inside a safari tent as part of Taronga’s Roar and Snore program or in the luxurious Wildlife Retreat , where after-dark access to the zoo’s nocturnal superstars is up for grabs.

Roar and Snore at Taronga Zoo gives you after-dark access to the zoo. (Image: Taronga Zoo)

Opening hours : 9.30am to 4.30pm daily from May to August and 9.30am to 5pm daily from September to April.

Address:  Bradleys Head Road, Mosman

2. Sydney Zoo

More than 4000 animals can be found throughout Sydney Zoo  including the country’s largest reptile and nocturnal collection. With a focus on educating visitors on animal welfare and introducing them to the world’s most unique species, it’s a special place filled with plenty of close-up encounters with the likes of red pandas, tigers, lions, hyenas, capybaras, crocodiles and more.

There’s also an aquarium, home to bull sharks and penguins, located right beside the popular Kids Zone fitted out with plenty of entertainment for pint-sized guests. Plan to stay the entire day as there’s no shortage of fun.

Opening hours:  9am to 5pm daily.

Address:  700 Great Western Highway, Eastern Creek

3. WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo

Australia’s native animals are showcased in spectacular fashion at WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo in Darling Harbour. Tour its Kangaroo Walkabout, Devil’s Den (home to four very well-cared-for Tassie devils), Koala Rooftop and Wallaby Cliffs enclosures to interact with the country’s most beloved treasures.

Interact with some of Australia’s most adorable native animals. (Image: Destination NSW)

There are also wombats, freshwater crocs, a Platypus, snakes, birds and spiders to gawk at. Zookeeper talks are scattered throughout the day at this Sydney zoo and if you can make a 7.15am call time, there’s a popular koala breakfast that includes your day’s admission, a buffet brekky and a souvenir photo of you getting up close to a koala to take home.

Spot a Kookaburra at WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo. (Image: Destination NSW)

Opening hours:  10am to 5pm daily.

Address:  Darling Harbour, 1-5 Wheat Road, Sydney

4. Featherdale Sydney Wildlife Park

Greater Western Sydney’s treasured Featherdale Sydney Wildlife Park is home to more than 2000 native Australian animals and the world’s largest Australian wildlife collection.

While we’re breaking records, this Sydney zoo also contains NSW’s largest group of koalas so if you’re a fan of the furry tree-huggers, you’ll be spoiled for heart-melting sights. Up-close encounters are also on offer including meet and greets with dingoes, quokkas, Tasmanian devils, echidnas, wombats and more.

Kids will love the up-close encounters on offer. (Image: Destination NSW)

Opening hours: 8am to 5pm daily.

Address: 217-229 Kildare Road, Doonside

5. SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium

Located next door to WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo, SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium  is a superb spot to explore all the creatures and ecosystems that lie beneath the water’s surface.

Explore an underwater wonderland at SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium with your family. (Image: Destination NSW)

Boasting an extraordinary collection of animals including giant 100+-kilogram sea turtles, sharks, penguins, tropical reef fish, dugongs, sting rays, jellyfish and more, this Sydney zoo covers it all in beautiful, serene style.

The aquarium is teeming with life. (Image: Sydney Aquarium)

Shark Valley, a thriving underwater world that flows throughout walkable aisles of glass, is a must and don’t skip the Penguin Expedition to be awed by the stoic waddlers’ majesty.

Find an array of fascinating marine life. (Image: Destination NSW)

Opening hours: 10am to 5pm, daily.

6. Whale watching in Sydney

The ocean’s most magnificent mammals make their way from Antarctica to Sydney’s far-warmer waters between May and November.

Observe the annual migration of humpback whales. (Image: Destination NSW)

In search of cosy conditions to breed and feed their bubs, whales are spottable right along the coastline with a string of boat tours promising to catch your own unforgettable sighting.

These gentle giants put on a show for spectators all along the east coast of Australia. (Image: Destination NSW)

Even easier, our whale-watching guide to Sydney  gives you a thorough understanding of what to expect, precisely when to spy whales and where you can stand on dry land and avoid a boat trip altogether.

Spot whales from various vantage points around Sydney. (Image: Destination NSW)

7. Koala Park Sanctuary

Celebrating our nation’s sleepiest icon, Koala Park Sanctuary  in Sydney’s west opened its doors in 1930 as Australia’s very first koala sanctuary. Guided by its firm focus on caring for and minimising the endless threats to koalas, the Sydney zoo has evolved over the years into a loving home for many native animals.

If you’re there for the park’s namesake attraction, multiple koala presentations are staged daily so you’ll learn everything you need to know about them no matter when you arrive. Additionally, there’s kangaroos, dingoes, emus, wombats and other furry friends to fall in love with elsewhere on-site.

Spot a koala up close at Koala Park Sanctuary. (Image: Remy Brand)

Address:  84 Castle Hill Road, West Pennant Hills, Sydney

8. Calmsley Hill City Farm

Parents of little ones ought to be all over Calmsley Hill City Farm , an engaging farm experience that offers a taste of rural farm life less than one hour’s drive from Sydney’s CBD. Featuring live demonstrations where visitors are invited to get their hands dirty milking cows, patting baby animals, riding tractors and even snapping whips, the Sydney animal experience is interactive from every angle.

Expert staff deliver a range of interactive animal experiences. (Image: Destination NSW)

Prefer your animal encounters from a distance? There’s koala talks and sheep shearing shows plus there’s birds, turtles, camels, horses and other animals to get swept up in.

Get a taste of life on the farm. (Image: Destination NSW)

Opening hours: 9am to 3pm Monday to Friday, 9am to 4pm Saturday and Sunday.

Address: 31 Darling Street, Abbotsbury

9. Golden Ridge Animal Farm

Just a 50-minute drive to Dural from Sydney’s CBD will lead you to the gates of Golden Ridge Animal Farm , a delightful destination filled with the baby farm animals of children’s dreams.

Organised in two-hour sessions to ensure every visitor has their fair share of quality time with baby rabbits, chicks, ducklings and more, entry will provide you with several meet and greets plus you can pay additional fees for pony rides, egg collecting and bags of animal feed. If your little one is more fascinated by trucks than animals, the farm features a Digger Zone where kids are invited to safely operate miniature diggers for a small fee.

Opening hours:  10am to 2pm weekdays and 10.30am to 3pm weekends, however entry is offered in sessions and opening times may vary.

Address:  686 Old Northern Road, Dural

Kristie Lau-Adams is a Gold Coast-based freelance writer after working as a journalist and editorial director for almost 20 years across Australia's best-known media brands including The Sun-Herald, WHO and Woman's Day. She has spent significant time exploring the world with highlights including trekking Japan’s life-changing Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage and ziplining 140 metres above the vines of Mexico’s Puerto Villarta. She loves exploring her own backyard (quite literally, with her two young children who love bugs), but can also be found stalking remote corners globally for outstanding chilli margaritas and soul-stirring cultural experiences.

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Taronga Zoo – tickets, prices, discounts, keeper talks, what to see

Taronga Zoo is home to more than 4,000 animals and is an extraordinary wilderness experience for kids and adults alike.

It is spread over 50 acres of harbor land, offering fantastic views of the Sydney harbor.

Taronga is also a not-for-profit organization supporting wildlife conservation.

It is a popular attraction for tourists and locals and provides a fun and educational day out for the whole family.

This article explains everything you need to know before purchasing your Taronga Zoo ticket.

Top Taronga Zoo Tickets

# Taronga Zoo entry with Sky Safari # Basic Taronga Zoo tickets # Taronga Zoo with Return Ferry

Table of contents

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Taronga Zoo opens at 9.30 am and closes at 5 pm every day of the year.

The last entry is one hour before closure.

This Sydney Zoo is open on weekends and public holidays too.

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Taronga Zoo tickets

There are three types of Taronga Zoo admission tickets you can buy.

1. Taronga Zoo entry with Sky Safari 2. Basic Zoo entry tickets 3. VIP Tour of Taronga Zoo 4. Guided Taronga Wild Australia Experience tour

All are smartphone tickets.

You don’t need to take a printout – on the day of your visit, show the tickets in your email and walk in.

In case of a last-minute change of plans, you can cancel them up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This is the most value-for-money Taronga Zoo ticket.

You start this tour from one of these three locations – Darling Harbour , Circular Quay , or Manly .

You get on to the Rocket Ferry operated by Captain Cook Cruises and travel to Taronga Zoo; on the way, enjoy stunning views of the Sydney Harbour, Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney Opera House, etc.

This ticket gets you access to all Zones at the Taronga Zoo, including the Sky Safari cable car.

After your Zoo visit, you get on the Rocket Ferry and return from where you started your tour.

Adult ticket (16 to 64 years): A$ 65 Child ticket (4 to 15 years): A$ 40 Infant ticket (0 to 3 years): Free entry

This ticket is the cheapest way to explore the Sydney Zoo.

It gets you full access to all nine different zones of the Taronga Zoo, including all the keeper talks and feeding sessions.

When you buy these Taronga Zoo tickets online, you get to skip the line at the ticketing counter and walk right in.

Taronga Zoo Prices

Adult ticket (16 to 64 years): A$ 51 Child ticket (4 to 15 years): A$ 30 Infant ticket (0 to 3 years): Free entry

Experience the animal world at Taronga Zoo with this entry ticket.

See native animals and enjoy a comfortable ferry ride with a roundtrip ticket from Darling Harbour, Circular Quay, Watsons Bay, or Manly.

Make the most of your visit by attending different daily keeper talks and shows

Spend a fun-filled day with your family in one of the most famous attractions of Sydney.

This tour is perfect for families with children or small groups. The starting time is 8.45 am.

Adult ticket (16+ years): A$ 65 Child ticket (Up to 15 years): A$ 40

Explore Taronga Zoo, one of Sydney’s most famous and interesting attractions.

Choose between a one or two-day harbor pass and see Sydney from the water.

Enjoy insightful keeper talks and various daily presentations at Taronga Zoo.

Entry to the Taronga is part of this package.

This tour starting time is 8.45 am.

Tour Pr ice +1 Day

Adult ticket (16+ years): A$ 69 Child ticket (Up to 15 years): A$ 49

Tour Pr ice +2 Day

Adult ticket (16+ years): A$ 75 Child ticket (Up to 15 years): A$ 59

Taronga Zoo combo tours

Because of its proximity to the Sydney Harbour and Circular Quay, it is possible to combine your visit to Taronga Zoo with an equally exciting activity nearby.

Many tourists prefer these combo tours because when two or more activities are booked simultaneously, you get up to 40% discounts.

Prepare for a full fun day on this tour with three fantastic adventures.

Take a ferry ride across Sydney Harbor to Taronga Zoo, which is home to many species of native Australian wildlife.

Then enjoy a whale-watching cruise with live narration about these majestic animals.

Finally, enjoy great views of the eastern suburbs on the return cruise.

Enjoy a variety of activities on one tour.

Adult ticket (16+ years): A$ 119 Child ticket (4 to 15 years): A$ 89 Infant ticket (up to 3 years): Free entry

The first part of this tour is a thrilling jet boat ride on Sydney Harbour.

The skipper of the jet boat reaches high speeds and performs high-speed spins and breaks, etc.

After this adrenaline-inducing activity, you take a Yellow water taxi to Taronga Zoo.

This tour is not suitable for those with back problems.

Adult ticket (16 to 64 years): A$ 147 Child ticket (4 to 15 years): A$ 95 Infant ticket (0 to 3 years): Free entry

Check out Go Sydney Explorer Pass which includes access to Sydney Hop-on Hop-Off, Taronga Zoo and SEA LIFE Aquarium.

Taronga Zoo is on Bradleys Head Road in Mosman, on Sydney Harbour. Get Directions .

It is close to Sydney’s Central Business District (CBD), and there are various ways to get to Taronga Zoo.

Taronga Zoo Ferry

If you prefer a ferry to reach Taronga Zoo, board one from  Circular Quay ,  Darling Harbour , or  Manly .

The traveling time is around 12 minutes.

From Circular Quay, you can also get on board one of Captain Cook Cruises’ Zoo Express boats.

All you have to do is buy a Sydney Harbour Cruise + Taronga Zoo ticket , and get the transport both ways.

You can board the M30 metro bus outside Central , Town Hall , or Wynyard Train Stations every 10-15 minutes.

If you are trying to reach the Taronga Zoo via the Northern suburb bus routes, get down at either Spit Junction or Mosman Junction and board the M30 bus.

If you are coming from Balmoral Beach, pick bus route number 238 to get dropped off at Sydney’s Taronga Zoo main entrance.

If you are trying to reach the Zoo by train, get down at the Circular Quay train station and get a ferry.

Taronga Zoo parking

Taronga Zoo Sydney’s full-day parking costs 18 AUD.

The entrance to this parking zone is on Bradleys Head Road.

The best time to visit Taronga Zoo is when they open at 9.30 am.

It is best to start early because the animals are most active in the morning, the temperatures are still moderate, the crowd is yet to get in, and you have the whole day to explore.

Since it gets crowded on weekends and school holidays, it is better to visit Taronga Zoo on weekdays.

The best months to visit Taronga Zoo are September, October, and November – Sydney’s spring.

Families with kids who usually attend keeper talks, feeding sessions, etc., need four to five hours to explore Taronga Zoo.

Adult-only groups tend to cover most animal exhibits at Taronga in two hours.

Taronga Zoo is divided into eight geographic regions and covers an area of 28 hectares (69 acres).

It houses more than four thousand animals, which makes it a massive attraction.

Some families turn it into a day-long activity by finding a picnic spot with stunning views of the Sydney Harbour.

The regular Taronga Zoo ticket for an adult costs A$ 47

The most significant discount on this ticket price is reserved for kids three years and below – they enter the Zoo for free.

Children between 4 to 15 years get the second-best ticket discount – they get a waiver of A$ 20 on the full adult ticket price and pay only A$ 27.

When you buy Taronga Zoo tickets online, you also qualify for an ‘online discount.’

Yes, that’s right. The entry ticket costs extra at the tourist attraction.

This is because when you buy Taronga Zoo tickets at the venue, you also pay what is known as the ‘ticketing window surcharge’ – the cost of maintaining a ticketing window.

The below-given cards also qualify for a concession of A$ 10 on the Taronga Zoo ticket price –

1. Pensioner Concession Card (PCC) 2. Companion Card 3. Health Cards (HCC) 4. Seniors Card 5. Student Card

What to do at Taronga Zoo

There are many things to do at this Sydney Zoo.

Watch this video to know what you can expect at Taronga Zoo –

This section also doubles up as Taronga Zoo’s timetable because we mention the activities’ schedule here.

Attend shows

There are two shows you must try and pack in during your Zoo visit.

Both are free for Taronga entry ticket holders.

However, they get crowded fast, so you must reach 10 minutes before the scheduled time to save a seat.

The free-flight bird show at Taronga Zoo begins at 12 pm and 3 pm daily; no booking is required.

It showcases the natural behavior of birds like Andean Candor. Watch out for its three-meter broad wings.

The Seal Show at Taronga Zoo show begins at 11 am and 2 pm daily. On weekends an additional performance is scheduled at 1 pm.

This showcases seals’ natural behavior, like catching fish, climbing, etc.

You also see other species, such as the Australian Sea lion, Californian Sealion, etc.

Attend Keeper Talks

You can spend the whole day attending Keeper Talks at this Zoo.

All Taronga Zoo Keeper talks and feeding sessions are free to attend. That is, they are included in your entry ticket.

Most of them last only 10 minutes, so it is better to arrive early.

You get to see Taronga’s Asian Elephants up close and learn how the lady of the house leads her herd.

Time: 1.45 pm, daily Duration: 15 mins

You get to understand why Giraffes are such amazing animals. How they are gentle and yet can be firm when required.

Time: 10.40 pm, daily Duration: 15 minutes

Meerkat family in Taronga Zoo Sydney is a lively bunch and to watch them eat insects, fruits, and vegetables during their feeding time is fantastic.

Time: 11.30 pm, daily Duration: 15 minutes

Gorillas have interesting social dynamics, and you get to learn and see it for yourself during this talk. You will see firsthand why Gorillas are known to be intelligent.

Time: 2.30 pm, daily Duration: 10 minutes

Chimpanzees have interesting family dynamics, which you will be able to observe from up close as they have their lunch.

Time: 12 pm, daily Duration: 15 minutes

The keepers tell the story of the penguin’s journey to the Taronga Zoo. How the injured and washed-up penguins reach the Zoo and settle down in their new home.

Time: 2.40 pm, daily Duration: 10 minutes

This talk is currently not running.

You can see and learn a lot about Australian reptiles, such as the Black-headed Python, Blue Tongue Lizard, etc.

You can also take photographs to show off later.

Time: 11.30 am, daily Duration: 10 minutes

Koalas sleep for 18 to 20 hours a day, so no hard promises if you will see them all active.

However, you can learn a lot from the Zookeepers as the marsupials rest amongst the eucalyptus trees.

Time: 2.30 pm, daily Duration: 15 minutes

Not all get excited at the prospect of seeing a spider, but those that do want to know everything about the eight-legged beings.

Time: 3 pm, daily from Monday to Friday Duration: 30 minutes

Komodo dragons are aggressive carnivores. In this talk, you get to see how ruthlessly the World’s most giant lizards can eat.

Time: 11 am on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays Duration: 10 minutes

At the ‘Encounter the animals’ session, you get closer to the animal for a one-on-one.

These animal encounters are paid activities; your Taronga Zoo entry ticket doesn’t cover these.

You can encounter numerous animals up close, such as Koalas, Penguins, Giraffes, Meerkats Encounter, Birds, and Elephants.

Unfortunately, you can’t book these animal encounters in advance.

You must book your encounter by visiting one of the Zoo’s shops or Animal Experience stations. Book Your tickets

This trek lets you get close to endangered Sumatran tigers and discover ways to save them from extinction.

Every day this free-to-enter activity starts at 9.30 am and continues until 4.30 pm.

The Sky Safari gondola operates from 9.30 am to 4.30 pm every day.

This ride is free for all visitors.

From the Taronga Sky Safari, you get fantastic views of Sydney Harbour.

During adverse weather conditions, Sky Safari is paused for a while.

Access to the Centenary Theater is included in your admission ticket to the Taronga Zoo.

The theatre has a day-long schedule of screening animations, live shows, and short films.

10 am to 11.30 am: Lights for the Wild animation (Movie) 10.30 am: Super-smalls! GIANT bug show (LIVE show) 11.30 am: Reptile Keeper Talk (LIVE show) 12 pm to 12.30 pm: Lights for the Wild animation (Movie) 12.30 pm to 2.30 pm: Wild Squad (continuous screening of Movie) 2.30 pm: Super-smalls! GIANT bug show (LIVE show) 2.30 pm to 4.15 pm: Wild Squad (continuous screening of Movie)

This experience comes free with your day entry ticket.

During this session, you meet the Blue Mountains Bushwalk Keeper, Bush Bird Keepers, Wetlands Aviary Keeper, and Pelican Keeper.

This is a paid activity, and you can choose from four adrenaline-fueled Wild Ropes courses.

Both kids and adults can strap on a helmet and navigate suspension bridges, climbing walls, flying foxes, etc., even as they see the animals below and Sydney Harbour on the horizon.

Depending on which course you choose, this course can be 45 minutes to two hours.

This is perfect for smaller kids. They are sure to love petting rabbits and Guinea pigs.

They also get to know what it takes to be a pet owner.

Kids can walk and learn how animals live on the farm at Taronga Sydney.

This 15-minute free activity is available on the weekends at 1.30 pm.

During school holidays, this is scheduled daily.

We recommend you look at Taronga Zoo’s map before you visit this Sydney attraction.

Especially if you are traveling with kids.

It will help you plan your route – and thus not miss any exhibit.

Besides the animal exhibits, the map also points out visitor services such as restaurants, washrooms, ATMs, picnic areas, free Wi-Fi, etc.

We recommend you bookmark this page or keep a printed copy of the map while exploring the Zoo.

Download Map

This Zoo in Mosman, Sydney, is a highly-rated tourist attraction.

Check out two Taronga Zoo reviews we picked from Tripadvisor , which give you an idea of what to expect at this attraction.

Day trip to remember

We had a great day at the Zoo. Our only regret is that we did not get up earlier and spend more time there.

The Kangaroos and Wallabies were great (you get close) but the highlights for us were probably the Platypus and Australian nocturnal animals – some of which we had not heard of before.

A really good, active day out. We could have easily filled 2 days rather than the about 3/4 we gave it. – Alekstomczyk , Edinburgh, United Kingdom

Perfect day for a young family

Try to go outside of busy times (school holidays). The seal show is amazing – the kids were captivated! Also, bring a spare change of clothes and swimmers in warm weather as there are great playgrounds with water features to play in. – Alison B

This is also known as Taronga Zoo Sleepover, and as part of the overnight stay at the Zoo, you get to experience four things –

1. Overnight safari with animal encounters 2. Delicious food at Campsite 3. Comfortable accommodation 4. Fantastic views of the Opera House, Harbor Bridge, etc

Since Roar and Snore experience is outdoors, it is best to come prepared for an extreme weather change.

Since a lot of walking is involved, it is best to wear comfortable shoes/sandals.

Taronga Zoo in Sydney has three restaurants.

Forage and Graze

This food joint is near the zoo’s entrance and serves pizzas, croissants, toast, Bacon and eggs, sandwiches, wraps, muffins, etc.

Opens at 9 am daily.

You need to book your spot for The View.

It is open from 11 am to 3 pm on Thursday to Sunday.

During the NSW school holidays, it is open on all days.

It serves a la carte menu and makes for a relaxing setting against the backdrop of Sydney Harbour.

Taronga Food Market

This eating place serves diverse and contemporary hot and cold food options.

We recommend freshly cooked roast chicken or their fantastic salads.

Sources # Wikipedia.org # Taronga.org.au # Int.sydney.com # Tripadvisor.com The travel specialists at TheBetterVacation.com use only high-quality sources while researching & writing their articles. We make every attempt to keep our content current, reliable and trustworthy .

Popular attractions in Sydney

# Sydney Opera House # Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb # Sydney Aquarium # Sydney Tower Eye

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Hanan Irfan

Hanan Irfan is fascinated by exhilarating treks, alpine lakes, landscape photography, and football. He loves trying different cuisines and meeting people from around the world. He's a sucker for solitude and sunsets, capturing memories on the run. His favorite cities: Tromsø, Reykjavik, and Seychelles

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Sydney Zoo is home to over 4,000 animals, including awe-inspiring and endangered species from all around the world.

Take a stroll down the African Boardwalk where you’ll see scenes from the savannah in the remarkable mixed-species habitats, wander down the leafy Primate Boulevard, and be mesmerised by the animals of south-east Asia.

Get closer to all your favourite Australian natives in the beautiful open-range Australia habitat, where kangaroos and wallabies hop freely around the meandering pathways.

Sydney Zoo is also the only combined zoo and aquarium in NSW, and boasts the largest Reptile & Nocturnal House in the world!

Get even closer to your favourite animals with an encounter. Take a walk through the new Koala Trail and snap a photo with Australia’s most iconic animal, stand tall next to a giraffe, feed a mob of mischievous meerkats and more.

See Sydney’s only rhino explore his habitat and wallow in the mud, watch playful kangaroo joeys play, or see the zoo from a different view with a ride on the giant Ferris wheel.

Located only 40 minutes from the city, en route to the famous Blue Mountains, this award-winning attraction is not to be missed.

Sydney Zoo was designed to be accessible and inclusive for all guests, with no hills or steps, for everyone to have a good time.

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Have accessibility information and photos, including of a bathroom, room and/or floor plan on your website (can be emailed on request)

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Have grab rails in the bathroom

Have step free access to restaurant, lounge and bar

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Modify your cooking and cleaning practices to cater for people with food allergies or chemical intolerances (could include menus with meals free from: nuts, dairy, seafood, eggs, gluten etc)

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Best time to visit, mar - may, sep - nov, ideal duration, starting from, http://sydney.com/, ideal for friends, sightseeing, best time to visit taronga park zoo.

The Taronga Zoo opening times are between 9.30 AM and 5.00 PM each day. The information about any changes in these timings is updated on the zoo website from time to time.

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The Best Animal Parks and Zoos in Sydney

Which of the Zoos in Sydney is best?

Did you know there are three zoos in Sydney? Add to that some excellent animal parks and choosing which one to visit can be tough. Well, don’t worry, we have been to them all, more than once! So below we will give you all the details you need to find the right one for your visit, whether it’s part of a trip of a lifetime to Australia or a day of family or school holiday fun!

Let’s start with a rundown of each of the tree top Sydney zoos before comparing their features in a handy table.

Taronga Zoo Sydney At Mosman

Sydney zoo bungarribee, wild life sydney zoo darling harbour, comparison table – sydney’s zoos and wildlife parks, sea life sydney aquarium, wildlife parks in sydney, deciding which zoo to visit in sydney, zoos in new south wales, other nsw wildlife parks.

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For over 100 years, Taronga Zoo has been welcoming visitors from its hilltop position overlooking Sydney Harbour. This zoo scores points for its stunning views, and if you plan your visit well, you can spend it walking downhill towards the view all day.

Download the Taronga Zoo App or pick up a map – This is the biggest zoo in Australia with 4,000 animals, so it’s well worth having a plan.

Special experiences at Taronga Zoo

Zookeeper experiences Join a small group to see the behind the scenes and learn more about the animals and the workings of the zoo. They offer these Zoo Keeper experiences for everyone, while they are very popular with younger kids and teens, even adults enjoy them.

Wild Ropes The wild ropes course will have you scale ropes over the zoo enclosures. Spend 45-120 minutes climbing and swinging above the Australian Walkabout enclosure. There are a variety of courses for adults and kids.  

The Free-flight Flight Bird Show Taronga Zoo bird show is legendary; it’s been wowing visitors for 20 years. Held twice daily at 12pm and 3pm, there is seating for 500, but it fills up quickly, so arrive early. From watching an Andean Condor soar above the harbour or meeting a pretty Red-tailed Black-Cockatoo or one of the famous pink and grey Galahs it’s lots of fun.

Stay the night For a special treat, consider staying at Taronga Zoo overnight. There are two options, a glamping experience or a luxury hotel-style stay .

Taronga Zoo Tickets

The zoo offers single tickets, family tickets – with a variety of options, including 1 and 2 parents and annual tickets.

Taronga Zoo Birthday Tickets allow you to visit for free on your birthday. Bring along official proof, and you will admission is on them!

Zoo and Ferry Ticket – The  Harbour ferry with the rocket ferry, which allows you to hop-on, hop-off to combine a day at the zoo with several other stops on the harbour for a full day out. One and two day passes are available.

Related: Check out the Taronga to Balmoral Walk

Reserve your tickets now and pay later

How to get to Taronga Zoo : The ferry is the most popular way to arrive at the zoo, and all of Sydney’s ferry operators offer a service. However, if you prefer not to take the ferry, you can reach the zoo via the 100 bus route that travels to Taronga Zoo from Wynyard train station via Military Road and Mosman shops. Accessibility: Free wheelchairs are available for use, and 95% of exhibits can be reached and viewed by those with limited mobility. The zoo offers free entry to carers or essential companions and accepts the national Companion Card. Verdict: Taronga is the best choice for a full day out or visitors to Sydney not prepared for a trek to the outer suburbs.

Buy a combined zoo and ferry ticket

Key facts for Taronga Zoo When: Open daily except Xmas Day 9.30am-4pm (winter) or 5pm (summer) How: Parking at the zoo costs $22. There are limited spots in nearby streets. If you are happy to walk a bit, you will probably find some very early in the day.

Opening at the end of 2019, Sydney Zoo in western Sydney, also known as Western Sydney Zoo, offers both a zoo and an aquarium, one of only two Australian venues offering this combination on one site. Sydney Zoo offers an experience that reminded me of our visit to Dubbo Zoo with its safari-like collection. If you’re a primate fan, you will love Sydney Zoo. They have a fabulous collection of primates, including 13 baboons and 11 chimps. They also have spider monkeys, orangutans and ten gorgeous “organ grinder” or Capuchin monkeys.

The aquarium is quite a different experience from the one in Darling Harbour with a good number of freshwater fish, including Murray cod and barramundi. There are also bull sharks, saltwater crocodiles and little penguins. If your focus is Australian Animals, you will find kangaroos and wallabies, koalas, wombats, emus and dingoes, cassowary, echidna and Tasmanian devil.

Standout Experiences at Sydney Zoo

Animal Encounters – Sydney Zoo offers a few animal encounters each day. Starting at $44 for a small group meeting (4-6 guests), the encounters range from 30 to 45 minutes and offer you a chance to learn more about the animal, hand feed them and take a photo close up.

Choose to get to know:

For a special treat or birthday gift, children aged 8-12 years can become a mini zookeeper for a day experience. 

The Bungarribee Dreaming Area provides an Aboriginal cultural experience. Indigenous staff run an interactive program.

Verdict: The Sydney Zoo Blacktown is a great day out for families, particularly those in Western Sydney who no longer need to trek into the city for their animal fix. A great place to see a wide range of animals from around the world. Sydney Zoo in the Blacktown region is a private zoo owned by John Burgess, who founded Sydney Aquarium back in 1988. 

Accessibility : As expected for a new facility, accessibility is excellent. There are wheelchairs and electric scooters available. Read a full review of the accessibility of the site from Have Wheelchair Will Travel .

Key Facts for Sydney Zoo Where:  700 Great Western Highway, Bungarribee I Open : Daily 9am-5pm How: Train to Blacktown and then the 723 or 729 bus

Check availability

Wild Life Sydney is a smaller interactive zoo on the waterfront at Darling Harbour. You wander the exhibits on a one-way trail with plenty of information from both the keepers and on signage around the displays.

There is an excellent range of Australian animals on show, including what they call the Big Aussie 5; kangaroos, koalas, platypus, a wombat and a saltwater crocodile. They also have Tasmanian devils and the less well-known quokka and numbat.

Combine your ticket with visits to other Merlin attraction passes for Sydney Tower Eye and Madame Tussauds.

Wild Life Sydney is a relatively small animal park, perfect for small children or those with limited mobility. It’s also a great wet weather option, with much of the premises being undercover.

Stand out experiences at Wildlife Sydney Zoo

We love the keeper talks here, on our last experience with the reptiles, to pat a snake. The staff are really patient with kids and go out of their way to ensure everyone is having a good time.

They are currently offering a 90 minute private tour that takes you behind the scenes

Covid has seen keeper talks reduced, but they have recordings you can listen to, and hopefully, they will be back soon.

Verdict: The Wildlife Sydney Zoo is compact and easily accessible, so a great choice if you are short of time or have little ones in prams.

Key Facts for Wild Life Zoo Sydney Where: 1-5 Wheat Road, Sydney I 10am-4pm daily How : Train to Town Hall or Wynyard and then a short walk.

Use this table to compare the features of Sydney’s zoos and wildlife parks. These venues are accessible, and most have wheelchair or pram hire available.

If you can’t get north to the Great Barrier Reef, you can see the largest Great Barrier Reef exhibit in the world! At Sea Life Sydney among the 500 animals that call the reef home, including reef sharks, jellyfish, some gorgeous tropical fish, and sea turtles.

There is also a penguin zone, Dugong Island, Shark Valley, and of course Sydney Harbour.

Standout Experiences at Sea Life Sydney

• Shark Dive Experience : a chance to swim cage-free with the sharks and giant stingrays
• Penguin Experience : a 75 minute with the King and Gentoo Penguins in their icy environment.

Check availability here

There are several wildlife parks in the outer Sydney suburbs. Two that we have frequently visited offer fabulous experiences and make for a great day out.

Featherdale Wildlife Park

If you are on the lookout for Australian wildlife,  Featherdale is hard to beat. This park specialises in Australian native wildlife and birds.  

You can hand feed kangaroos and meet koalas up close and also observe a bunch of other Aussie favourites just going about their days.

Standout experiences at Featherdale

The Koala Experience – Featherdale offers a free meet a koala experience that does not require bookings.

Koala Kindy – Go behind the scenes to Koala Kindy. This extra experience ($100) includes assisting keepers in delivering the koalas Eucalyptus leaves and time helping with their conditioning. 

Zookeeper for the day – the program allows kids aged 8-13 years to spend the day accompanying keepers and education staff around the zoo and assisting with their routines.

Key Facts Featherdale When : 9am to 4pm, daily (excluding Christmas Day) How: Train to Blacktown Station and then make your way to Bus stand E and catch the 729 bus to the park.

Symbio Wildlife Park

Located just off the Grand Pacific Drive in Helensburgh, Symbio Wildlife Park is a great choice for families who live on the southern side of the city.

Symbio has an extensive Australian animal collection and a range of exotic species, like cheetahs, meerkats, red pandas, ring-tailed lemurs, and monkeys. There is also a fun farmyard area where you can sometimes feed baby goats and lambs.

Along with excellent keeper talks, you can have your photo taken with a koala or one of the friendly reptiles.

Standout experiences

The parks offer several behind-the-scenes experiences with some of the friendliest residents. You can cuddle a dingo, let the meerkats climb all over you, or hand feed a red panda.

Symbio has extensive picnic grounds and a new water play area that makes it easy to spend the entire day here!

Key Facts Symbio When : 9.30am-5pm daily (except Christmas Day) Where: 7-11 Lawrence Hargrave Dr, Helensburgh How: Train to Helensburgh Station and route 15 bus service which runs to Symbio. The bus is currently only running on weekends.

There is also the Koala Park in West Pennant Hills and Calmsley Hill City Farm in Abbotsbury; however, it’s been a very long time since we visited either.

Most cities have one zoo, but there are three zoos in Sydney and another five animal parks. Add to that the various animal sanctuaries across NSW, and you have plenty of different places to meet animals.

Which of the zoos in Sydney has the most Australian animals?

Taronga Zoo has the biggest range of Australian animals; however, Featherdale, with its smaller footprint, can be a better way to get up close and personal with them.

Can I hold a koala in Sydney?

Short answer no. To prevent koalas from becoming stressed, no zoo or wildlife park in NSW is allowed to let you cuddle a koala. You can, however, stand right next to one for a photo and a pat at Taronga, Featherdale, Symbio and Wildlife Zoo Sydney.

Which is the best zoo for toddlers and younger kids?

Wildlife Sydney Zoo’s compact size makes it a brilliant choice for small children. You can complete your visit in a couple of hours, perfect for when they still need an afternoon nap! Is Sydney Zoo or Taronga Zoo better?

Are the zoos accessible to all?

Yes, all four of Sydney’s zoos are fully accessible, although it is good to plan your visit before you head to Taronga, so you are not pushing your wheelchair or pram uphill all day.

Which is the cheapest zoo in Sydney to visit?

A sample of current pricing(March 2021) – more family combinations and annual membership offers can be found directly on each attraction’s website.

• Featherdale – $35 for adults and $105 for a family of up to 6
• Sydney Zoo – $39.99 for adults and $218 for a family of up to 2 kids.
• Taronga – $44.95 for adults and $124 for a family of 2 adults and 2 kids

Taronga Western Plains Zoo Dubbo

The biggest zoo outside of Sydney is Taronga Western Plains Zoo Dubbo. This award-winning zoo is one of the top attractions in regional NSW. We made the trip to Dubbo last September and finally got to check it out.

This safari-style zoo is best enjoyed on wheels, either renting a bicycle or an electric scooter and making your way around the 5km circuit.

The zoo offers 10 free talks a day, so grab the schedule when you arrive and map out your day so you can include your favourites. Commonly known as Dubbo Zoo, a long weekend trip to see the animals is a fun family getaway.

Standout experiences at Taronga Western Plains

Savannah Safari truck – Join a keeper and jump on the safari truck for a twenty-minute ride inside the enclosures. Get up close to the giraffe, zebra, rhinos and antelope.

Animal Encounters – Book a 40-minute encounter with a hippo, giraffe, or meerkat.

Accommodation for Dubbo Zoo

The zoo offers three accommodation styles, and if you are visiting the area especially for the zoo experience, it makes sense to stay here if you can manage it. Being onsite allows you after-hours access to the zoo and some special talks with the keepers.

Camping – Billabong Camp is located inside the zoo, a short distance from the Pride Lands. Everything you need is provided, and you get extra time with the animals, including an evening walk with the nocturnal Aussie wildlife. The next morning, you will take a walk before the zoo opens to see the Sumatran Tigers and Siamese Apes. You won’t go hungry with dinner and an evening supper, and continental buffet breakfast included.

Glamping – Zoofari Lodge offers 10 luxury lodges with views of giraffes, zebras and rhinos or five Bushland Lodges located just seconds away in the surrounding bushland.

Savannah Cabins – These two bedrooms cabin are fully self-contained with a kitchen, living space and TV with Foxtel. There is a playground and plenty of space for families. You are located just outside the zoo perimeter.

There are also several Dubbo Caravan Parks within a few kilometres of the zoo. We stayed at Mid-State, which was a mid-priced, no-frills option. If you are travelling with kids, you would likely be happier at the NRMA.

If you are planning a regional holiday, there are at least a dozen other approved zoos and wildlife parks across the state.

• The Australian Reptile Park Somersby
• Australia Walkabout Wildlife Park Calga
• Blackbutt Reserve Newcastle 
• Hunter Valley Zoo 
• Billabong Zoo Port Macquarie
• Koala Hospital Port Macquarie
• Oakvale Wildlife Park 
• Mogo Wildlife Park Mogo
• Altina Wildlife Park Griffith
• Potaroo Palace Merimbula
• Birdland Batemans Bay 

Main image credit Taronga Zoo: Destination NSW

• AustraliaDreamer
• Safari excursions
• How long should I spend at Australia Zoo?

Are you planning a visit to Australia Zoo and wondering how much time you should spend there? Look no further! In this article, we will guide you through all the essential information you need to make the most of your visit to this iconic wildlife sanctuary.

Location and History of Australia Zoo

Planning your visit, must-see exhibits and attractions, animal encounters and experiences, food and dining options, gift shops and souvenirs, tips for a memorable visit, transportation and parking, accommodation near australia zoo, additional wildlife experiences in the area, 1. how long should i plan to spend at australia zoo, 2. what are the best times to visit australia zoo to avoid crowds, 3. are there any age restrictions for animal encounters, 4. can i bring my own food and drinks into the zoo.

Situated in Beerwah, Queensland, Australia Zoo is a world-renowned conservation park that was established by the late Steve Irwin and his family. It has a rich history dating back to 1970 when it was initially opened as the Beerwah Reptile Park. Over the years, it has grown into one of the most popular tourist attractions in Australia.

When planning your visit to Australia Zoo, it's important to consider how much time you want to spend exploring the park. The average visitor spends around 4-6 hours at the zoo, but depending on your interests and the exhibits you want to see, you may choose to spend more or less time.

Australia Zoo is home to a wide range of exhibits and attractions that showcase the incredible diversity of Australian wildlife. Some of the must-see exhibits include the Crocoseum, where you can watch thrilling wildlife shows, the African Safari Park, where you can see zebras and rhinos up close, and the Tiger Temple, where you can witness majestic tigers in action.

If you're looking for a more immersive experience, Australia Zoo offers various animal encounters and experiences. You can have the opportunity to cuddle a koala, hand-feed kangaroos, or even swim with a friendly seal. These encounters usually require advanced bookings, so make sure to plan ahead.

When hunger strikes, there are plenty of food and dining options available at Australia Zoo. From casual cafes serving snacks and light meals to full-service restaurants offering delicious Australian cuisine, you'll find something to satisfy your appetite. Don't forget to try some classic Aussie delicacies while you're there!

No visit to Australia Zoo would be complete without picking up a few souvenirs to remember your experience. The zoo boasts an array of gift shops where you can find everything from plush toys and clothing to authentic Aboriginal artwork and Steve Irwin memorabilia.

• Wear comfortable shoes and dress appropriately for the weather.
• Bring sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellent.
• Check the daily schedule for shows and encounters you don't want to miss.
• Arrive early to beat the crowds and have more time to explore.
• Download the Australia Zoo app for a map and live updates.

Australia Zoo is easily accessible by car or public transportation. If you're driving, there is ample parking available on-site. For those using public transport, there are regular bus services that operate from Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast, with stops near the zoo entrance.

If you're planning an extended visit to Australia Zoo, you'll be pleased to know that there are several accommodation options available nearby. From cozy bed and breakfasts to luxury resorts, you can find a place to suit your preferences and budget.

While Australia Zoo is undoubtedly a highlight, there are other wildlife experiences in the surrounding area that you might want to explore. The Glass House Mountains National Park offers stunning hiking trails and breathtaking views, while the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital provides a unique behind-the-scenes look at wildlife conservation.

Australia Zoo offers an unforgettable experience for wildlife enthusiasts of all ages. Whether you choose to spend a few hours or an entire day, you're sure to create lasting memories. Take advantage of the various exhibits, animal encounters, and dining options to make the most of your visit to this iconic wildlife sanctuary.

Frequently Asked Questions

The average visitor spends around 4-6 hours at the zoo, but it ultimately depends on your interests and the exhibits you want to see. You can choose to spend more or less time accordingly.

Avoiding weekends and school holidays can help you avoid larger crowds. Additionally, arriving early in the morning or later in the afternoon can also be less crowded.

Some animal encounters at Australia Zoo may have age restrictions for safety reasons. It's best to check the zoo's website or contact them directly for specific information regarding age restrictions for each encounter.

Australia Zoo does not allow outside food or drinks to be brought into the park. However, there are plenty of dining options available within the zoo where you can enjoy a meal or snack.

Is there monkeys in safari?

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Pandas coming to CA zoo for first time in decades — and city calls it a ‘major boost’

A zoo in California soon will receive rare animals that should give the city a “major boost,” officials said.

As part of China’s Panda Diplomacy Program , the San Francisco Zoo was selected to receive giant pandas, according to an April 19 news release from city Mayor London Breed.

Breed said she was “thrilled” and that this would mark the first time the city will be a “long-term home” for giant pandas.

President Xi Jinping of the People’s Republic of China met with President Joe Biden in November and discussed the exchange between China and the U.S., officials said.

The goal is to “build a stronger, lasting relationship between China and San Francisco,” the release said.

The last time pandas were at the zoo was for a temporary time in 1984 and 1985, officials said. The two pandas were at the zoo during the 1984 Summer Olympics tour and brought more than 260,000 visitors to the city.

The pandas returned to the zoo in 1985 for a three-month visit, officials said.

Breed said the semi-permanent pandas at the zoo will bring more tourism to the city.

The arrival date hinges on the completion of an enclosure to house the pandas, officials said.

One of world’s rarest tigers dies at age 20, Georgia zoo says. ‘Heartbreaking’

22-year-old mama gorilla is pregnant again at Utah zoo. See Pele and her ultrasound

Baby otters born at Washington zoo weigh the same as 5 fun-size Snickers. See them

©2024 The Charlotte Observer. Visit charlotteobserver.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

What’s the Deal With the Bitcoin Halving?

I f you’ve talked to anyone invested in bitcoin lately, there’s a good chance you’ve heard about the halving. Some crypto enthusiasts intone the halving like a religious event with near mystical importance: They believe its mechanics are crucial to bitcoin’s continuing price surge. However, detractors claim that the halving is closer to a marketing gimmick.

The halving is expected to take place on April 19 or 20, depending on the current rate at which bitcoins are created. So, what is it, exactly? And is it hard-coded genius, or smoke and mirrors? 

What is the bitcoin halving?

The halving goes all the way back to bitcoin’s origin story, born in the ashes of the 2008 financial crash. The cryptocurrency’s creator—who went by Satoshi Nakamoto, but whose real identity remains unknown—invented bitcoin the following year, and dreamed of creating an international currency that would operate outside the control of governments or central banks. Crucially, Satoshi wrote that there would only ever be 21 million bitcoin, so as to temper its inflation and potentially make each bitcoin more valuable over time. 

Whereas the Federal Reserve, in contrast, can adjust the supply of dollars when they deem necessary, bitcoins would be released at a predetermined and ever-slowing pace. Satoshi determined that roughly every four years, the reward to create new bitcoins would be cut in half, in events known as “halvings.” As it became harder to create new bitcoins, each one would become rarer and more valuable, the theory went. Eventually, new bitcoin would stop being created entirely (that will likely not happen for at least another century).

Read More: Why Bitcoin Just Hit Its All-Time High

What has happened during past bitcoin halvings?

The halving is designed to make bitcoin more scarce, and ostensibly to push bitcoin’s price upward. And for the last three halvings, that’s exactly what has happened. After bitcoin’s first halving in November 2012, bitcoin’s price rose from $12.35 to $127 five months later. After the second halving in 2016, bitcoin’s price doubled to $1,280 within eight months. And between the third halving in May 2020 and March 2021, bitcoin’s price rose from $8,700 to $60,000. 

But correlation does not imply causation, especially with such a small sample size. First, it’s possible that the timing of these rises was purely coincidental. It’s also possible that bitcoin’s rise has less to do with the actual mechanics of the halvings as opposed to the halvings’ narratives. With each halving, excitement grows about bitcoin’s potential, leading more people to buy in. That increase in demand causes the price to increase, which causes even more interest in a self-reinforcing cycle. 

What will happen to bitcoin during this halving? 

The halving will likely not cause a significant movement in price on the day it happens. Part of the economic impact of the halving has likely already occurred, with investors buying bitcoin in anticipation of the event, and the aftershocks of the halving will continue for months or years afterward, experts say.

“Given the previous history, the day-of tends to be a non-event for the price,” says Matthew Sigel, head of digital assets research at the global investment manager VanEck. 

Another factor that makes it difficult to predict where bitcoin is headed post-halving is that this time, the economic circumstances surrounding it are different. It's the first time that bitcoin has peaked before a halving, as opposed to after—last month, bitcoin rallied to an all-time high of $70,000 before dropping back down. That rally was aided by the rise of bitcoin ETFs: investment vehicles that allow mainstream institutional investors to bet on bitcoin’s price without having to actually buy bitcoin itself.

But there are some pessimists who believe that bitcoin’s big run has already happened, thanks to the ETFs—and that its price will actually decrease after the halving. A big reason for this, they believe, will be the actions of traders embarking on the strategy of “selling the news,” who cash in on their holdings in order to capitalize on a potential gold rush of interested buyers. JP Morgan predicted in February that bitcoin’s price will drop back down to $42,000 after “Bitcoin-halving-induced euphoria subsides.” 

“Have we already created the buzz for bitcoin prior to halving—or is the ETF what allows Bitcoin to make similar run ups that we've seen in previous halvings?” says Adam Sullivan, the CEO of the bitcoin mining company Core Scientific. “We don't have to answer that question yet.” 

While many bitcoin optimists swear that its price will dramatically increase in the months following the halving, it’s important to remember that bitcoin does not always behave rationally, especially during chaotic global news events. After Iran launched a missile attack on Israel on April 13, for example, rattling the global economy, bitcoin’s price plummeted 7% in less than an hour.

Read More: A Texas Town’s Misery Underscores the Impact of Bitcoin Mines Across the U.S.

What will happen to bitcoin miners during the halving?

While determining the halving's impact on average bitcoin investors is challenging, it seems certain that the halving will dramatically change the bitcoin mining industry. Bitcoin “miners” are essentially the network’s watchdogs, who safeguard the network from attacks, create new bitcoins, and get rewarded financially for doing so. After the halving, miners’ rewards for processing new transactions will be reduced from 6.25 bitcoin to 3.125 (about $200,000)—a significant immediate reduction of revenue. 

As a result, mining will become unprofitable for many smaller operations. As they fold or sell themselves to bigger operations, like Marathon Digital Holdings Inc. or CleanSpark Inc., the industry will likely consolidate. “People are going to operate in a marginally profitable environment for as long as they possibly can,” Sullivan says. “Those are folks that will probably look to get scooped up, probably in the six-to-12 month timeframe.” 

But the bitcoin mining companies that weather the storm and gain market share from those who have bowed out could reap enormous rewards, Matthew Sigel says. “Miners are always the cockroaches of the energy markets; they're very nimble,” he says. “We think the second half of the year will be very strong for bitcoin miners, as long as the bitcoin price rallies.” 

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