Taronga Western Plains Zoo
An expansive open-range zoo in Dubbo, Australia, offering immersive wildlife encounters and unique accommodation options.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Animals are more active
Taronga Western Plains Zoo
Best Time
Animals are more active
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An expansive open-range zoo in Dubbo, Australia, offering immersive wildlife encounters and unique accommodation options.
"A fantastic day out with the kids, highly recommend this amazing place!"
🚗 Drive Your Own Car
The zoo is huge! Using your own car is convenient and saves money compared to hiring carts.
🚲 Hire a Cart or Bike
If you don't have your own car, book a golf cart or bike in advance – they sell out fast!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Pygmy Hippo Calf Lololi
Behind-the-scenes nursery
Witness the adorable, recently born Pygmy Hippo calf, Lololi, as she bonds with her mother.
Open-Range Animal Encounters
Various enclosures
Experience animals roaming in spacious, naturalistic habitats, offering a sense of immersion.
Giraffe & Zebra Plains
Savannah areas
Wake up to giraffes grazing and zebras roaming right outside your window at Zoofari Lodge.
+1
Short-beaked Echidna
Monotreme exhibit
Learn about these unique Australian mammals, like Pitpa, celebrating her long lifespan.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigate the Vast Zoo
Accommodation & Tickets
+1 More affordable options are available in Dubbo town. Booking tickets and any desired cart or bike hire in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak times, as they can sell out. Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive Your Own Car
The zoo is huge! Using your own car is convenient and saves money compared to hiring carts. +1
🚲 Hire a Cart or Bike
If you don't have your own car, book a golf cart or bike in advance – they sell out fast!
⏰ Arrive Early
Beat the crowds and see animals at their most active. More animals are visible in the morning.
📅 Book Accommodation Early
Zoofari Lodge is popular. Book well in advance if you want to stay overnight at the zoo.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive Your Own Car
The zoo is huge! Using your own car is convenient and saves money compared to hiring carts. +1
🚲 Hire a Cart or Bike
If you don't have your own car, book a golf cart or bike in advance – they sell out fast!
⏰ Arrive Early
Beat the crowds and see animals at their most active. More animals are visible in the morning.
📅 Book Accommodation Early
Zoofari Lodge is popular. Book well in advance if you want to stay overnight at the zoo.
🗺️ Grab a Map
The zoo is vast. A map is essential for navigating the 6km circuit and planning your route.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Taronga Western Plains Zoo for its spacious, naturalistic enclosures and the impressive variety of animals. The open-range design and the ability to explore via car, bike, or cart are highly appreciated. While the zoo offers a wonderful experience, some guests note that staff friendliness could be improved, and the cost of additional tours like the Safari Adventure is a point of contention for some.
"We drove our own car around the park which was very convenient, saved the legs of the kids y being able to just drive through at our own pace and have our car with us with snacks etc. The exhibits are very good, very easy to see animals, and we were very impressed with how much space the animals have to themselves. There are very well placed fences, making some areas seem like there is no fan e at all, but your completely safe at all times. I was particularly impressed with the Galapagos Tortosis, I'd never seen them before, same with the little honey eater birds. The hospital was impressive as was the expansion e platypus area.
Only down side was the staff was not very friendly. Maybe they were all having a bad day, especially in the gift shop. It was a long weekend after all. But well worth the visit."
A G
"This is a great zoo with a wonderful variety of animals. I'd love if there were more carts available for hire as we arrived at time of opening and they were all sold out. It's a big day and by the time you get past the waterhole it's exhausting to think about getting out of the car....once again! But overall a wonderful day."
Kristy Snape
"We came out to Dubbo in the July School holidays to visit the zoo with the kids. We’ve talked about it for a number of years and finally booked it in. We were considering staying at the zoo but you would need to remortgage the house to afford it so we choose much more affordable accommodation in town.
We were considering booking the carts to get around as one of our kids has a disability and can’t ride a bike but they were all booked out for our visit. This actually turned out to be a blessing in disguise as you can easily navigate the park if you have your own car and save some cash on the carts.
It was super easy to ride around the loop on the bikes with the other kids and only one spot where we had to drop the gears to push up the hill. Was good being able to ride the bikes up to each enclosure and plenty of bike racks throughout the park to leave the bikes.
We did the safari adventure but was a bit disappointed this was an additional cost on top of the park entry, surely this should be included, just feels like something you shouldn’t have to pay extra for.
Overall the enclosures are great with heaps of room for the animals to roam but like most zoos the animals do look a bit bored and need some action. All the herding animals are too relaxed as there is no predator threats and the predators just chilling as they don’t have to hunt anymore. I’m sure punters would pay good money to see the animals in a more real world environment. Imagine seeing the big cats in action stalking their pray, now that would bring in the crowds. Anyways, I’ll just saviour the time I got to see a white lion take down a water hen in its enclosure many years ago at a different zoo……priceless.
Overall an enjoyable day out with the kids."
Cameron Lindsay
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to reach Taronga Western Plains Zoo from Sydney is by driving, which takes approximately 4-5 hours. Alternatively, you can fly into Dubbo City Airport (DBO) and then take a taxi or rideshare to the zoo.
Yes, there is ample parking available at the zoo, including caravan parking. You can drive your own car around the zoo's 6km circuit.
Yes, you can walk the entire 6km circuit. However, due to the zoo's size, many visitors opt to drive, bike, or hire a cart to cover the distance.
Public transport options directly to the zoo are limited. It's recommended to drive your own vehicle or arrange transport from Dubbo town if you are not staying at the zoo accommodation.
The zoo is generally accessible for wheelchairs, with paved paths throughout most of the grounds. However, some areas might be more challenging. It's advisable to check with the zoo directly for specific accessibility details.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary, but a family pass (2 adults, 2 children) can cost around $135 for two days of access. It's best to check the official Taronga Western Plains Zoo website for current pricing and any available discounts.
Yes, you can typically purchase tickets at the gate. However, to avoid disappointment, especially during peak seasons or school holidays, it's highly recommended to book your Taronga Western Plains Zoo tickets online in advance.
Discounts may be available for seniors, students, or through specific package deals. Checking the zoo's official website or contacting them directly is the best way to find current Taronga Western Plains Zoo discount offers.
The zoo generally opens around 9:00 AM and closes in the late afternoon. It's crucial to check the official Taronga Western Plains Zoo opening hours for your specific visit date, as these can vary seasonally.
No, the Safari Tour is often an additional cost on top of the general park entry fee. Many visitors feel this should be included, but it's an extra expense to consider.
🎫 🦁 Onsite Experience
Visitors often rave about the giraffes, zebras, rhinos, meerkats, sea otters, and platypus. Don't miss the chance to see the new Pygmy Hippo calf, Lololi!
Zoofari Lodge offers an immersive overnight experience where you can sleep within the zoo grounds, waking up to animals like giraffes and zebras. It's an all-inclusive African savannah-themed stay.
Yes, the zoo schedules various animal feeding times throughout the day. These are excellent opportunities to see animals up close and learn more about them from keepers.
Families can enjoy exploring the vast zoo by car, bike, or cart, attending keeper talks and feeding sessions, and learning about conservation efforts. The zoo is designed for a full day of exploration.
Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks to enjoy at the zoo, which can help save money. There are also cafes and food outlets available on-site.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are cafes and food outlets within the zoo offering various options. The cafe is generally considered pretty good, though some amenities like milkshakes might not always be available.
You can expect typical cafe fare, including snacks, light meals, coffee, and drinks. Zoofari Lodge offers an all-inclusive dining experience as part of the accommodation package.
Absolutely! Bringing your own picnic is a great way to save money and enjoy a meal with a view. There are designated areas where you can relax and eat.
While prices are comparable to other attractions, bringing your own food and drinks is the most budget-friendly option.
The cafes typically offer a range of options, and it's advisable to inquire directly at the food outlets for specific vegetarian or vegan choices.
📸 📸 Photography
The open-range enclosures, especially the giraffe and zebra plains at sunrise or sunset, offer stunning photographic opportunities. The new Pygmy Hippo calf is also a popular subject.
Yes, photography is encouraged! Just be mindful of the animals' well-being and avoid using flash photography directly at them, especially in darker enclosures.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or videography may require special permits. Always respect signage and staff instructions.
A telephoto lens is useful for capturing details of animals from a distance. However, a standard zoom lens or even a smartphone can capture great shots, especially with the open enclosures.
Consider the Zoofari Lodge experience for unique sunrise and sunset shots over the plains. The diverse range of animals, from tiny echidnas to large rhinos, offers endless photographic subjects.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 Driving your own car is often the easiest way to manage little ones and their belongings. Make sure to check the daily schedule for animal feeding times and keeper talks, as these are often highlights for children. The zoo's open-range design provides a sense of adventure, and seeing animals like giraffes and rhinos up close is always a thrill.
Consider purchasing a two-day family pass if you want to explore at a more relaxed pace without rushing. 💰 Budget Travelers
Look for family passes which can offer better value if you're traveling with multiple people.
While Zoofari Lodge is a luxury option, there are more affordable accommodation choices in Dubbo town if you plan to stay overnight. 💑 Couples & Romantic Getaways
+1 Even without staying overnight, a late afternoon visit can be more relaxed and offer beautiful golden hour lighting for photos. Exploring the zoo at your own pace, perhaps with a hired bike or cart, allows for intimate moments and shared discoveries. Enjoying a picnic lunch amidst the expansive grounds can also be a charming way to spend time together.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Zoo: Getting Around
+1 This allows you to stop at your leisure, enjoy the views, and keep snacks and essentials on hand. For those without a car, renting a golf cart is a popular option. These can be hired for half or full days, providing a fun and efficient way to navigate the zoo. However, it's crucial to book these in advance, as they are in high demand and often sell out, particularly during peak seasons.
Walking the entire circuit is certainly possible for the energetic visitor, but be prepared for a significant amount of ground to cover, especially on a hot day. Regardless of your chosen mode of transport, arriving early is a key strategy. This not only helps you secure preferred transport options like carts or bikes but also allows you to see animals when they are most active and before the main crowds arrive.
Zoofari Lodge: An Immersive Stay
+1The Zoofari Lodge experience is typically all-inclusive, often featuring gourmet meals and behind-the-scenes access. It provides a luxurious yet adventurous way to immerse yourself in the zoo's environment, offering a perspective far beyond a typical day visit.
Due to its popularity and exclusive nature, booking well in advance is essential, as availability is limited. +1While the Zoofari Lodge is a significant investment, reviews suggest it's a memorable experience for those seeking a special occasion or a deeper connection with wildlife.
It transforms a zoo visit into a complete getaway, blending comfort with the thrill of being surrounded by animals. Conservation and New Developments
The zoo is also looking towards the future with ambitious expansion projects. The Serengeti Resort, a 55-hectare immersive African safari experience, is under development and slated for completion in late 2026. This project aims to further enhance the immersive experience for visitors, bringing a taste of Africa to Dubbo.
Furthermore, the zoo is a hub for education and training. The Taronga Training Institute offers accredited courses for aspiring zoo keepers, utilizing the zoo's diverse animal collection as a living classroom.
This commitment to education and conservation underscores the zoo's role beyond mere entertainment, positioning it as a leader in wildlife preservation and education in regional Australia.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit