Werribee Open Range Zoo Melbourne
Experience wildlife from around the globe on a vast African-style savannah at Werribee Open Range Zoo. See elephants, lions, giraffes & more!

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, active animals
Werribee Open Range Zoo Melbourne
Best Time
Fewer crowds, active animals

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience wildlife from around the globe on a vast African-style savannah at Werribee Open Range Zoo. See elephants, lions, giraffes & more!
"It's such a close encounter with the big cats and we were impressed by this extraordinary experience at the right timing!"
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking & Safari
Beat the crowds and secure a good parking spot by arriving at opening time. Head straight for the safari bus! :car:
🎫 Book Tickets Online
While walk-ups are possible, booking online saves time and guarantees entry, especially during busy periods. :ticket:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Safari Bus Tour
Departs from the main zoo area
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the open plains, spotting giraffes, zebras, and more! Included with admission.
Asian Elephant Herd
Elephant Habitat
Witness the majestic new herd of nine Asian elephants, including playful calves, in their expansive new home.

Big Cat Encounters
Big Cat Enclosures
Get up close (behind protective glass) to lions and tigers. Catching a feeding or a rare active moment is a thrill!

Wander the Trails
Various walking paths
Explore diverse habitats and discover animals like kangaroos, koalas, and meerkats at your own pace.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds: Timing is Key
Safari Bus: Your Ticket to the Plains
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking & Safari
Beat the crowds and secure a good parking spot by arriving at opening time. Head straight for the safari bus!
:car:🎫 Book Tickets Online
While walk-ups are possible, booking online saves time and guarantees entry, especially during busy periods.
:ticket:☀️ Pack for the Sun
Much of the zoo is exposed. Bring hats, sunscreen, and water, especially on warmer days.
:sunwithface:👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
You'll be doing a lot of walking on various trails. Comfortable footwear is a must!
:athletic_shoe:Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking & Safari
Beat the crowds and secure a good parking spot by arriving at opening time. Head straight for the safari bus!
:car:🎫 Book Tickets Online
While walk-ups are possible, booking online saves time and guarantees entry, especially during busy periods.
:ticket:☀️ Pack for the Sun
Much of the zoo is exposed. Bring hats, sunscreen, and water, especially on warmer days.
:sunwithface:👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
You'll be doing a lot of walking on various trails. Comfortable footwear is a must!
:athletic_shoe:🐘 Consider Special Experiences
Book animal encounters or specialized tours in advance for unique, up-close interactions.
:camerawithflash:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Werribee Open Range Zoo, particularly the immersive safari experience and the chance to see animals roaming freely. The new elephant herd is a major highlight, and the zoo is praised for its educational value and family-friendly atmosphere. Some note that it can get busy, and advise arriving early, especially during peak seasons.
"Excellent zoo! Great way to get out of the city and experience wildlife from across the world. Excellent to see 2 of the big five game animals and a cheetah, which is the fastest land animal from Africa. Soon, they'll also have elephants at the park. Will definitely be visiting again soon"
Jaco Theron
"Visited Werribee Zoo on 28 November 2024 with my family. Really great Safari bus ride with a very enthusiastic female guide. Enjoyed the bumpy and educational tour through the safari. The cafe was pretty comfortable with air conditioning and great food. Will recommend a visit if you happen to be in Melbourne."
SS Tan
"What a brilliant Zoo! So many wonderful animals to see ! Best to go on a Day that's not too hot as a lot of it is open so you'll be walking in the sun all day. Got so many beautiful photos! We really enjoyed the Safari tour, allows you to get closer to the animals. Goes for about 40 minutes and it's included in your ticket price. A really fun day out, either by yourself, with a partner, with the family or with friends !!
Better to get there early as the car park gets full very quickly!"
Ricardo Nehme
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most convenient public transport option is to take a train to Werribee Station and then catch the infrequent Bus 439 to the zoo. Alternatively, the Werribee Park Shuttle departs from the NGV in the CBD and is a more direct, albeit paid, option. Hiring a car offers the most flexibility.
The journey can take around an hour or more, depending on your chosen mode of transport and traffic conditions. Public transport involves transfers and waiting times for buses.
Yes, there is parking available. However, it can fill up quickly, especially on busy days. Arriving early is recommended to secure a spot.
Yes, you can use public transport by taking a train to Werribee Station and then the Bus 439. Check the PTV website for current timetables as the bus frequency can be limited.
Yes, the Werribee Park Shuttle operates from the NGV in the CBD, offering a direct service to the zoo and returning in the afternoon.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
It's highly recommended to book tickets online in advance, especially during school holidays or weekends, to avoid disappointment and long queues.
Werribee Open Range Zoo typically opens around 9:00 AM and closes at 5:00 PM, but it's always best to check the official website for the most up-to-date opening hours.
Ticket prices vary, but general admission typically includes access to the walking trails and the safari bus tour. Check the zoo's website for current pricing and potential discounts.
Look out for potential discounts through memberships, family passes, or special promotions. Some online travel agencies might also offer deals.
Yes, you can usually purchase tickets at the gate, but booking online in advance is advised to guarantee entry and save time, especially during peak periods.
🎫 🦁 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the safari tour for giraffes and zebras, the new Asian elephant herd, and the big cats like lions and tigers. Meerkats are also a hit with younger visitors.
Yes, the main safari bus tour is typically included in your general admission ticket. It's a fantastic way to see many of the animals.
Animals are often most active in the early morning or late afternoon. Go first thing in the morning to catch them at their liveliest.
Yes, Werribee Zoo offers special animal encounters and guided tours that provide closer views and educational insights. These usually need to be booked in advance.
Absolutely! Werribee Zoo offers a toddler safari on the bus with singalongs and has easily visible animals like meerkats at toddler height.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There's a cafe offering a range of food, including cooked options, chicken and chips, and sushi rolls. Some visitors found the food to be okay.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally acceptable to bring your own snacks and drinks to zoos. However, check the zoo's policy if you plan to bring a full picnic.
The cafe typically offers a variety of options, but it's best to check the menu on the day or contact the zoo directly for specific dietary information.
Yes, the cafe is noted as being comfortable with air conditioning, providing a welcome respite on warmer days.
Prices at zoo cafes can be on the higher side. It's advisable to check menus and prices beforehand if you're on a budget.
📸 📸 Photography
The safari bus offers unique perspectives of animals in their open habitats. The walking trails also provide opportunities for close-ups, especially with active animals.
Yes, the new elephant habitat is designed to offer good viewing and photographic opportunities. Try to capture them interacting with each other.
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed. However, professional photography or videography may require special permits. Always be mindful of animal welfare and avoid using flash photography directly at animals.
A zoom lens is highly recommended to capture animals from a distance, especially on the safari. A wide-angle lens can be useful for landscape shots of the open plains.
Early morning and late afternoon offer softer light, which is ideal for photography. Animals are also often more active during these times.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the safari, explore the walking trails where you can spot meerkats (at toddler height!) and other native Australian animals. The zoo also offers special animal encounters that can be booked in advance for an extra special treat. Don't forget to pack snacks and water, and ensure everyone has comfortable shoes for a day of exploration.
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Werribee Zoo: The Safari Experience
To make the most of it, arrive early to secure a good spot in the queue for the bus, especially during peak times. Sitting on the right side of the bus is often recommended for better views of certain animals. The guides are usually enthusiastic and provide educational commentary, making the journey both fun and informative.
For a more exclusive experience, consider booking one of the specialized safari tours, such as the morning savannah tour or a deluxe safari. These often have smaller group sizes and may offer more in-depth insights or unique viewing opportunities, though they come at an additional cost.
Beyond the Safari: Exploring the Walking Trails
Key areas include the big cat enclosures, where you might witness lions and tigers on the move, and habitats for kangaroos, koalas, and other Australian native animals. The zoo also features a dedicated invertebrate section with a butterfly house, which has been a hit with visitors looking for a different kind of wildlife encounter.
These trails are perfect for families with young children, as they often have toddler-friendly viewing areas and opportunities for interactive 'spotting' games. Remember to wear comfortable shoes, as you can cover a significant distance exploring these diverse exhibits.
The New Elephant Habitat: A Majestic Addition
This expansive new home is designed to provide the elephants with ample space to roam, socialize, and engage in natural behaviors. Visitors can witness these gentle giants in an environment that closely mimics their natural African plains, offering a truly impressive spectacle.
The arrival of the elephants is a testament to the zoo's commitment to conservation and providing optimal living conditions for its animals. It's a must-see for any visitor, offering a unique opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures up close.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit