West Melbourne and Beyond

Werribee Open Range Zoo

Werribee Open Range Zoo, located just 30 minutes from Melbourne, is a must visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts and families alike. This sprawling open-range zoo offers a unique opportunity to experience African savannah animals in an environment that closely mimics their natural habitats.

If you live in the west this is a great place to visit again and again if you have children as they just get so excited!

Safari Bus tour: One of the highlights of the zoo is the Safari Bus tour, which takes you on an immersive journey through the expansive savannah. The open-air experience allows you to get up close and personal with giraffes, zebras, rhinos, and antelopes.

The knowledgeable guides share fascinating insights about each species, their behaviours, and the zoo’s efforts to protect endangered animals. It’s an unforgettable way to connect with wildlife and get so much more out of a visit to a zoo.

Elephant at sunset — *Image: West Melbourne and Beyond.*

Conservation: The zoo’s commitment to conservation and education is evident throughout the park. From the informative signage to the various talks and feeding sessions, there are endless opportunities to learn about wildlife preservation.

Altona Miniature Railway — *Image: West Melbourne and Beyond.*

The emphasis on sustainability and habitat protection is inspiring and a great way to educate visitors about the importance of supporting conservation efforts.

Animal encounters: at the zoo are another fantastic feature. Experiences such as feeding giraffes or walking with kangaroos offer unforgettable close-up interactions. These encounters are not only fun but also a great way to foster a deeper appreciation for wildlife. The staff ensures these interactions are safe and respectful for both the animals and visitors.

The setting of the zoo itself is breathtaking. Surrounded by the natural beauty of Werribee Park, the lush landscapes and open skies make for a serene and picturesque environment.

Whether you’re exploring the main exhibits or simply taking in the views, the atmosphere is relaxing and invigorating. A visit to Werribee Open Range Zoo is just so good for the soul. Not only do you get to see the wonder of mainly African wildlife, you also can just enjoy being in the outdoors.

Animals: Really though a visit to Werribee Open Range Zoo is all about the animals and especially seeing them in an open surrounding where the animals have a lot more space to themselves than a traditional zoo.

However it is worth mentioning that if you enjoy seeing animals up close and personal an open range zoo may have some downsides for you. You really can be a lot further away than you may wish to be although undoubtly the animals do enjoy their greater space.

Food options: Food options at Werribee Open Range Zoo are varied and cater to all dietary needs. The Meerkat Bistro is a standout, offering delicious meals with a view of the playful meerkats. For those who prefer to bring their own food, the picnic areas are spacious and well-maintained, providing a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the surroundings.

It's all about fun: If you have children then it goes without saying that a visit to Werribee Open Range Zoo has to be near the top of your list. Children just get so much joy out of seeing the animals and as a parent it makes for a great outdoor excursion. Bring your own picnic lunch too if you want to manage your costs.

More to see and do

Mini golf — *Image: West Melbourne and Beyond.*

Some nearby attractions include:

In A Nutshell

Werribee Open Range Zoo is a world class destination that combines adventure, education, and conservation in one unforgettable package. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, a day spent here is guaranteed to leave you inspired and connected to the wonders of the animal kingdom.

It’s not just a visit, it’s an experience that will stay with you long after you’ve left.

If you have children it goes without saying that a visit to Werribee Open Range Zoo will get the kids excited and you'll probably have a bit of fun too!

When

Open 9AM-5PM daily, last entry at 3:30PM.

Location

Werribee Open Range Zoo is located at K Rd, Werribee South VIC 3030 approximately 38 minustes from Melbourne CBD.

Official Website

Werribee Open Range Zoo Website

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