The Lodge Deakin
Experience luxury accommodation with direct views of lions, giraffes, and more at Jamala Wildlife Lodge. An unforgettable immersive wildlife adventure...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Unique animal encounters year-round
The Lodge Deakin
Best Time
Unique animal encounters year-round
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience luxury accommodation with direct views of lions, giraffes, and more at Jamala Wildlife Lodge. An unforgettable immersive wildlife adventure.
"This place is amazing. Would rate 100% for the whole establishment."
Book Your Animal Encounter
Conner's zoo tours are highly recommended for an insightful and passionate experience. :star:
Anniversary Surprise
They offer thoughtful touches for special occasions like anniversaries. Mention it when booking! :gift:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lion-View Rooms
Jungle Bungalows
Wake up to the majestic sight of lions, including cubs, just beyond your glass. A truly surreal and unforgettable experience.
Giraffe Tree Houses
Giraffe Bungalows
Experience unparalleled proximity to giraffes, offering a unique and heartwarming perspective. Perfect for all ages.
African-Themed Dining
The Lodge Restaurant
Savor world-class cuisine in an exotic setting, often with views of resident lions. An exceptional culinary journey.
Exclusive Zoo Access
National Zoo & Aquarium
Enjoy early morning or after-hours access to the zoo, offering a more intimate and peaceful exploration.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Well in Advance
Embrace the Immersion
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Your Animal Encounter
Conner's zoo tours are highly recommended for an insightful and passionate experience. :star:
Anniversary Surprise
They offer thoughtful touches for special occasions like anniversaries. Mention it when booking! :gift:
Pack for Comfort
While luxurious, it's still an immersive experience. Comfortable shoes are a must for exploring. :athletic_shoe:
All Ages Welcome
From toddlers to seniors, everyone raves about the magical experience. :familymanwomangirlboy:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Your Animal Encounter
Conner's zoo tours are highly recommended for an insightful and passionate experience. :star:
Anniversary Surprise
They offer thoughtful touches for special occasions like anniversaries. Mention it when booking! :gift:
Pack for Comfort
While luxurious, it's still an immersive experience. Comfortable shoes are a must for exploring. :athletic_shoe:
All Ages Welcome
From toddlers to seniors, everyone raves about the magical experience. :familymanwomangirlboy:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Guests rave about Jamala Wildlife Lodge, calling it an unforgettable, magical, and bucket-list experience. The unparalleled proximity to animals, luxurious accommodations, and exceptional dining are consistently praised. While the price point is high, visitors feel it's well worth it for the unique immersion and top-tier service.
"We stayed at Jamala Lodge to celebrate our 10-year anniversary, and it was truly unforgettable. From the moment we arrived, the staff went above and beyond to make us feel welcome. The high tea was absolutely delicious, and Conner gave us a fantastic tour of the zoo - his passion and knowledge made the experience even more special.
We had the incredible opportunity to stay with the lions, including their adorable newborn cub, Nyra. It was magical and unlike anything we’ve ever experienced. The room itself was spotless and beautifully presented, and to our surprise, the team left us a sweet plush toy gift for our anniversary which was such a thoughtful touch!
Dinner was another highlight. The service was impeccable, and every dish was bursting with flavour and quality. Honestly, we can’t fault a single thing. From start to finish, it was the best experience we could have hoped for, and one we’ll always remember.
Highly recommend Jamala Lodge to anyone looking for a unique and extraordinary getaway."
Tania N
"We are at Jamala for our first night in the Giraffe bungalow tomorrow we move to a jungle bungalow. We are a 75 year old couple who have not travelled much. Arrived today and OMG by the end of the day I thought I had died and gone to heaven. This place is amazing. Would rate 100% for the whole establishment. The staff are so dedicated and have such knowledge of all the animals. The catering staff are amazing, the food is world class and the people u enjoy a meal with are all like minded animal lovers. If u haven’t been here then give it a try."
Lyn Jones
"We were lucky enough to get the room with the tiger — and WOW. Waking up and seeing a majestic tiger just on the other side of the glass was absolutely surreal. The room itself was luxurious, beautifully styled, and incredibly comfortable, with every detail thoughtfully considered.
The staff were warm and attentive, and the overall atmosphere was peaceful, unique, and magical. The food was top notch. Being immersed in nature like this, while still enjoying all the comforts of a top-tier hotel, made it such a special stay.
Highly recommended — this is a bucket-list experience truly one of the most unforgettable experiences we’ve ever had!"
Timothy
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Lodge Deakin, also known as Jamala Wildlife Lodge, is located within the National Zoo & Aquarium in Canberra, Australia. You can drive directly to the zoo's entrance, and parking is available. For those flying in, Canberra Airport is the closest airport, with taxis and ride-sharing services readily available to reach the lodge.
While public transport can get you to Canberra, reaching the National Zoo & Aquarium directly via public bus might require transfers and can be time-consuming. Taxis or ride-sharing services from the city center are generally more convenient for a direct route to the lodge.
Traveling with a toddler to Jamala Wildlife Lodge is highly recommended, as the experience is designed to be enjoyable for all ages. Driving directly to the zoo is the most convenient option, allowing you to bring any necessary gear.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, your stay at Jamala Wildlife Lodge includes exclusive access to the National Zoo & Aquarium, often outside of regular public hours, offering a more intimate experience.
Check-in typically begins in the afternoon, allowing you to settle in and enjoy the lodge amenities. Check-out is usually in the morning, but you can often continue to enjoy access to the zoo grounds afterward. It's best to confirm exact times with the lodge directly.
The Lodge Deakin is a family-friendly destination, welcoming guests of all ages, including toddlers and seniors. The unique accommodations and experiences are designed to be enjoyed by everyone.
Due to its exclusive nature and high demand, it's strongly advised to book your stay at Jamala Wildlife Lodge several months in advance, especially for popular room types like those with direct animal views.
🎫 🦁 Onsite Experience
Expect incredible, up-close encounters! Rooms like the Jungle Bungalows offer views of lions, while Giraffe Tree Houses provide direct giraffe interaction. The dining area also features views of lions.
Absolutely. The lodge is designed with safety as a top priority. Animal enclosures are secure, and all interactions are supervised by experienced zoo staff to ensure the well-being of both guests and animals.
The dining experience is exceptional, featuring world-class cuisine in an African-themed restaurant. Many tables offer views of the resident lions, making for a truly unique and memorable meal.
Yes, you are encouraged to capture your unforgettable moments! However, always be mindful of the animals' well-being and avoid flash photography directly at them, especially during nighttime.
Beyond your room's unique views, you'll enjoy gourmet dining and exclusive access to the National Zoo & Aquarium. Guided tours are often part of the experience, offering deeper insights into the animals.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The lodge offers world-class cuisine with an African theme. Reviews consistently praise the high quality, flavor, and presentation of every dish served.
Yes, the catering staff are amazing and can accommodate various dietary needs. It's recommended to inform them of any restrictions when booking to ensure a seamless dining experience.
Yes, high tea is a highlight for many guests, described as absolutely delicious. It's a wonderful way to enjoy the lodge's ambiance and culinary offerings.
Dinner is an impeccable experience, often enjoyed with views of the lions. The atmosphere is described as peaceful, unique, and magical, making it a truly special occasion.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings and late afternoons, during the 'golden hours,' offer beautiful lighting for photography. Also, the exclusive access times to the zoo allow for unique shots without crowds.
While generally encouraged, avoid using flash photography directly at the animals, as it can disturb them. Be mindful of the animals' comfort and well-being when taking pictures.
You can capture incredible close-ups of lions, including cubs, and intimate moments with giraffes. The unique vantage points offer unparalleled photographic opportunities.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for general shots, while a telephoto lens (70-200mm or longer) is ideal for capturing detailed animal portraits from your room or during zoo tours.
Yes, staff like Conner often provide insights during tours, highlighting the best times and spots for photography. They can guide you to capture the most memorable moments.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the rooms, the exclusive zoo access means kids can explore at their own pace, and the guided tours are engaging and educational. The staff are known for their passion and knowledge, making the experience even more special for young minds. It's a fantastic way to create lasting family memories and foster a love for wildlife.
💍 Couples & Anniversary Celebrations
The lodge is also renowned for its thoughtful touches for special occasions. Guests celebrating anniversaries have reported receiving sweet gifts and exceptional service, making their celebration even more memorable. The combination of luxury, unique experiences, and personalized attention makes it an ideal destination for couples seeking something extraordinary.
🌟 Luxury & Unique Experience Seekers
Guests consistently describe their stay as a 'bucket-list experience' and 'unforgettable.' The meticulous attention to detail in room design, service, and culinary offerings ensures a high level of luxury. For those who value unique, high-end travel, Jamala delivers an extraordinary escape that is both thrilling and sophisticated.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Immersive Accommodation Experience
Another popular option is the Giraffe Tree Houses, which provide an intimate and heartwarming encounter with giraffes. These accommodations offer a unique perspective, allowing guests to observe these gentle giants at eye level. The lodge also features other themed rooms, ensuring a distinct and memorable stay for every visitor. Each room is meticulously designed with comfort and luxury in mind, featuring high-quality furnishings and thoughtful amenities, ensuring that the proximity to wildlife doesn't compromise the guest experience.
The lodge's commitment to creating an immersive environment extends beyond the rooms. The common areas, including the dining room, often have glass walls or strategic viewing points that allow guests to observe animals like lions while enjoying their meals. This constant connection to the wildlife is a defining characteristic of Jamala, making it a bucket-list destination for animal lovers and those seeking an extraordinary getaway.
Culinary Delights and Exclusive Access
Beyond the exquisite meals, guests at Jamala Wildlife Lodge enjoy exclusive access to the National Zoo & Aquarium. This typically includes opportunities for early morning or after-hours visits, allowing for a more peaceful and personal exploration of the zoo's inhabitants without the usual crowds. Guided tours, often led by knowledgeable and passionate staff members like Conner, are frequently part of the package. These tours provide fascinating insights into the animals' lives, behaviors, and conservation efforts, enriching the visitor experience significantly.
For those celebrating special occasions, the lodge is known for its thoughtful touches, such as personalized gifts for anniversaries. This attention to detail, combined with the unique setting and high-quality service, ensures that a stay at Jamala Wildlife Lodge is not just a visit, but a truly memorable event.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit