Sydney Zoo Bungarribee
A modern zoo in Bungarribee, offering naturalistic enclosures for native and exotic animals, plus a dazzling evening light festival.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Sydney Zoo Bungarribee
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A modern zoo in Bungarribee, offering naturalistic enclosures for native and exotic animals, plus a dazzling evening light festival.
"The animals seem very happy and have brilliant enclosures to roam."
🚗 Skip Public Transport
On sunny days, public transport can be a hassle. Driving and parking are recommended if possible.
⏰ Book Timed Entry
Tickets often require booking a specific time slot, so plan your visit in advance.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Australian Outback
Native Australian Section
Get up close with iconic Aussie wildlife in spacious, naturalistic enclosures.
Penguin Plunge
Aquarium
Marvel at the playful antics of penguins in their immersive aquatic habitat.
GLOW Festival
Throughout the Zoo
Experience the magic of giant animal lanterns and neon installations after dark.
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Value Beyond a Single Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Skip Public Transport
On sunny days, public transport can be a hassle. Driving and parking are recommended if possible.
⏰ Book Timed Entry
Tickets often require booking a specific time slot, so plan your visit in advance.
💡 Consider Annual Pass
Great value for families planning multiple trips throughout the year.
✨ Visit During GLOW
Experience the zoo transformed by stunning animal lanterns and neon art. 
How long is ideal inside the new Sydney Zoo
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Skip Public Transport
On sunny days, public transport can be a hassle. Driving and parking are recommended if possible.
⏰ Book Timed Entry
Tickets often require booking a specific time slot, so plan your visit in advance.
💡 Consider Annual Pass
Great value for families planning multiple trips throughout the year.
✨ Visit During GLOW
Experience the zoo transformed by stunning animal lanterns and neon art.
⏳ Allow 2-3 Hours
You can see most exhibits in 1.5-2 hours, but allow more time with young children or for a relaxed pace.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally find Sydney Zoo to be a pleasant experience, with many praising the spacious and naturalistic enclosures that seem to keep the animals happy. The GLOW event is a particular highlight, offering a magical evening transformation. However, some feel it can be a bit pricey for a single visit compared to other options, and weekends can get quite busy.
"We love this zoo! We are yearly members and go to most events they offer. Such fun for kids to just be able to run , see animals and play. Only wish they also had a playground for kids (as well as the sand play area) but such a good zoo.
Been to glow event 3 years in a row… first year was the best and since then it’s became more about money then experiences. But in current times that’s most activities. Wish they offered cheaper and better food options. And this year aquarium wasn’t open at night like previous years. Kids love that area especially at night."
Jayme Watkin
"Sydney Zoo exceeded our expectations! The variety of animals was fantastic — we saw elephants, lions, crocodiles, and hyenas, all looking healthy and active. Some of the highlights were the capybaras, Tasmanian devils, and wombats, which were fascinating to watch. We were lucky to visit around lunchtime when many animals were particularly active.
It's a great destination for families with kids. Although we didn’t attend the GLOW event, we saw the setup and it looked stunning — vibrant lighting, beautiful decorations, and a few amazing rides for children added a magical touch to the atmosphere.
Overall, a must-visit attraction that offers something special for all ages!"
piyush kumar
"Who knew this fabulous zoo was right in my backyard? I don't know why it's taken me so long to visit but I was wowed by the exhibits, the atmosphere, and the whole experience! Recommend definitely buy tickets online before you go (it's cheaper!) and take a packed lunch for a lovely picnic."
Nicole Liauw
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Sydney Zoo is located at 700 Great Western Highway, Bungarribee NSW 2767. While public transport is an option, many visitors recommend driving due to potential crowds and heat, especially on sunny days. Free parking is available.
Yes, Sydney Zoo offers free parking for visitors. It's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a spot.
For a more comfortable experience, driving is often preferred. If using public transport, check schedules in advance as buses can get busy.
Yes, buses service the Great Western Highway in Bungarribee. However, it's recommended to check current routes and schedules as they can be subject to change and may be less convenient on busy days.
Absolutely! Sydney Zoo is conveniently located in Bungarribee, Western Sydney, making it a popular destination for locals.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, and it's best to check the official Sydney Zoo website for current pricing. Many visitors find that purchasing an annual pass offers excellent value for families planning multiple visits.
Yes, it's often required to book your tickets in advance and select a specific time slot for your visit, whether it's morning or afternoon.
Keep an eye on the official Sydney Zoo website and their social media for any available promotions or discount codes.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's essential to check the Sydney Zoo website for the most up-to-date information on operating hours before your visit.
Typically, zoos have different pricing tiers for adults, children, and sometimes seniors or toddlers. Refer to the Sydney Zoo website for specific age brackets and costs.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Most visitors find that 1.5 to 2.5 hours is sufficient to see all the exhibits. However, if you're with young children or prefer a more leisurely pace, you might want to allocate up to 3 hours.
Don't miss the Australian native animals, the immersive aquarium with penguins, and the various up-close animal encounters offered.
Yes, Sydney Zoo is generally considered family-friendly, with engaging exhibits and opportunities for children to learn about wildlife.
GLOW is a special evening event featuring over 70 giant animal lanterns and illuminated installations, creating a magical atmosphere.
Yes, Sydney Zoo offers various up-close animal encounters, providing unique opportunities to interact with and learn about different species.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of the animals in their naturalistic enclosures, the vibrant GLOW festival installations, and the playful penguins in the aquarium.
Yes, photography is generally allowed for personal use. However, always be mindful of the animals' well-being and avoid using flash photography that might disturb them.
Early mornings or late afternoons can offer softer lighting for photography. Also, consider visiting during feeding times for more active animal shots.
Use a zoom lens to get closer shots without disturbing the animals. Look for moments when they are active or interacting with their environment.
Absolutely! The GLOW event is designed for visual spectacle, offering fantastic opportunities for unique and colorful night photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during the week to avoid the biggest crowds, and allow at least 2-3 hours for a comfortable pace. The GLOW event is also a magical experience for families, transforming the zoo into a wonderland of lights.
+1💰 Budget Travelers
Look out for any potential promotional offers or discounts on the zoo's website. Packing your own snacks and drinks can also help manage costs during your visit, though check the zoo's policy on outside food.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 Early mornings or late afternoons provide softer light for animal photography. For the GLOW event, a tripod can be beneficial for capturing the illuminated displays in low light. Experiment with different angles and perspectives to get unique shots of both the wildlife and the artistic installations.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding Sydney Zoo's Design
The zoo houses a significant collection of Australian native species, alongside exotic animals and an aquarium. This blend offers a comprehensive look at global biodiversity. The emphasis on habitat replication means visitors can observe animals in settings that are as close to their wild environments as possible, fostering a deeper appreciation for conservation efforts.
Community feedback often highlights the happiness of the animals and the quality of their enclosures, suggesting the zoo's design philosophy is well-received by visitors. This focus on animal welfare and visitor experience makes Sydney Zoo a notable destination in Western Sydney.
The Magic of GLOW at Sydney Zoo
+1The event often includes a 'Neon Playground' for children, adding an extra layer of fun for families. Visitors can also enjoy attractions like a Ferris wheel, making it a festive outing. The visual impact of the lanterns and the creative use of light create a memorable experience, especially for those who enjoy photography or simply soaking in a magical ambiance.
Many visitors recommend attending GLOW on a weeknight to avoid larger crowds and fully appreciate the illuminated displays. It's a testament to the zoo's ability to offer diverse experiences beyond its daytime operations, attracting visitors with its innovative evening events.
Maximizing Your Visit: Tips from the Community
For those considering repeat visits, an annual pass is frequently mentioned as a cost-effective option for families, turning the zoo into an affordable regular outing.
Finally, remember that tickets often require timed entry booking, so planning ahead and securing your slot is crucial.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit