Werribee Open Range Zoo, Melbourne - A small animal walking across a cement floor
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Werribee Open Range Zoo Melbourne

4.5
·14k reviews·Werribee South, Australia

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, active animals

CrowdLow
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Werribee Open Range Zoo, Melbourne - A small animal walking across a cement floor

Werribee Open Range Zoo Melbourne

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, active animals

CrowdLow
Highlights

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!

4.5
(14k reviews)

"It's such a close encounter with the big cats and we were impressed by this extraordinary experience at the right timing!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 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:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Safari Bus Tour

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.

Instagram+1
Asian Elephant Herd

Asian Elephant Herd

Elephant Habitat

Witness the majestic new herd of nine Asian elephants, including playful calves, in their expansive new home.

TikTok
Big Cat Encounters

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!

Reddit+1
Wander the Trails

Wander the Trails

Various walking paths

Explore diverse habitats and discover animals like kangaroos, koalas, and meerkats at your own pace.

Instagram+1
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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds: Timing is Key

Werribee Open Range Zoo can get busy, especially during school holidays. Arrive early, right at opening, to snag good parking and beat the queues for the popular safari bus tour. Consider weekdays if possible for a more relaxed experience. Reddit+1

Safari Bus: Your Ticket to the Plains

The safari bus tour is a highlight, offering close-up views of animals roaming freely. Book tickets in advance, especially during peak times, or consider the smaller, extra-cost tours for a more intimate experience. Reddit+1

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, active animals
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons, 2-3 hours before close
Why
Animals often active
Crowd
Medium
When
School holidays, weekends
Why
Can be very busy
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Welcome To Werribee
@tedsthetics
28K likes • 538.1K views

🎯 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! Reddit+1 :car:

🎫 Book Tickets Online

While walk-ups are possible, booking online saves time and guarantees entry, especially during busy periods. Reddit+1 :ticket:

🐘 BIG NEWS FROM WERRIBEE ZOO! 🐘 For the first time ever, Werribee Open Range Zoo is home to ELEPHANTS – and not just one or two, but an entire herd! Nine Asian elephants, including three calves, have made the move from Melbourne Zoo in a carefully planned journey spanning five days. Their first moments in their new 21-hectare, world-class habitat? Pure magic. Trunks touching, ears flapping, and tr...
@mammaknowswest
17.1K likes • 345.8K views
Our Visit to Werribee Open Range Zoo was a hit ! From feeding kangaroos to spotting Lions, it was an exciting Safari & Walk Experience Everyone Loved ,especially Saga & Yaan🩵✨ Build Your Dream Home with @saranconstruction - Chennai’s Trusted Builders! ✨🏗️ #australia #melbourne #family#travel #vacation #ootd #fashion #chennai #builders #construction #chennaibuilders
saranya.gana
3.1K likes • 0 views

☀️ Pack for the Sun

Much of the zoo is exposed. Bring hats, sunscreen, and water, especially on warmer days. Reddit :sunwithface:

👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential

You'll be doing a lot of walking on various trails. Comfortable footwear is a must! Instagram :athletic_shoe:

#FollowAshTo_ #Melbourne 墨爾本必去動物園🔥 Werribee Open Range Zoo 比 Melbourne Zoo 更值得去! 動物種類超多元化 好開心喺呢度一次過見到哂 Wallaby, Kangaroo & Koala 😍 仲有勁大嘅Safari區🛺 性價比極高嘅體驗~~ 🇦🇺Melbourne, Australia 📍Werribee Open Range Zoo
_ashhh_h
527 likes • 2.2K views

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! Reddit+1 :car:

🎫 Book Tickets Online

While walk-ups are possible, booking online saves time and guarantees entry, especially during busy periods. Reddit+1 :ticket:

☀️ Pack for the Sun

Much of the zoo is exposed. Bring hats, sunscreen, and water, especially on warmer days. Reddit :sunwithface:

👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential

You'll be doing a lot of walking on various trails. Comfortable footwear is a must! Instagram :athletic_shoe:

🐘 Consider Special Experiences

Book animal encounters or specialized tours in advance for unique, up-close interactions. Reddit :camerawithflash:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(14k reviews)

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

Immersive safari tours
New elephant herd
Animals roaming freely

What People Dislike

Can get very busy
Cafe food is average

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. TikTokReddit

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. Reddit

Yes, there is parking available. However, it can fill up quickly, especially on busy days. Arriving early is recommended to secure a spot. TikTokReddit

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. Reddit

Yes, the Werribee Park Shuttle operates from the NGV in the CBD, offering a direct service to the zoo and returning in the afternoon. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

It's highly recommended to book tickets online in advance, especially during school holidays or weekends, to avoid disappointment and long queues. Reddit+1

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Look out for potential discounts through memberships, family passes, or special promotions. Some online travel agencies might also offer deals. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🦁 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. TikTokInstagramReddit

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. InstagramReddit

Animals are often most active in the early morning or late afternoon. Go first thing in the morning to catch them at their liveliest. Reddit+1

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. Reddit

Absolutely! Werribee Zoo offers a toddler safari on the bus with singalongs and has easily visible animals like meerkats at toddler height. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Yes, the cafe is noted as being comfortable with air conditioning, providing a welcome respite on warmer days. Reddit

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. Reddit

📸 📸 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. Instagram+1

Yes, the new elephant habitat is designed to offer good viewing and photographic opportunities. Try to capture them interacting with each other. TikTok

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

Early morning and late afternoon offer softer light, which is ideal for photography. Animals are also often more active during these times. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Werribee Open Range Zoo is a fantastic family outing. The safari bus tour is a guaranteed hit, keeping little ones entertained with close-up views of animals. Arrive early to manage parking and queues, and consider the toddler safari for younger children, complete with singalongs. TikTokReddit

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. Reddit+1

💰 Budget Travelers

To make your visit budget-friendly, consider purchasing a family membership if you plan to visit multiple zoos in Victoria within a year, as it often pays for itself. Reddit Pack your own picnic lunch and snacks to save on cafe costs, though the cafe does offer a comfortable, air-conditioned break. Reddit Utilize public transport where possible, though factor in the time and potential transfer costs. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Werribee Open Range Zoo offers excellent photographic opportunities, especially during the early morning and late afternoon when the light is soft and animals are most active. Reddit A telephoto lens is highly recommended for capturing details of animals on the safari and from the walking trails. Instagram Look for unique shots of the new elephant herd and active big cats. TikTokInstagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating Werribee Zoo: The Safari Experience

The safari bus tour is a cornerstone of the Werribee Open Range Zoo experience. It's your primary opportunity to see animals like giraffes, zebras, rhinos, and antelopes roaming freely across vast plains, mimicking their natural habitats. The tours typically last around 40 minutes and are included with your general admission ticket. InstagramReddit

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. Reddit+1

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. Reddit

Beyond the Safari: Exploring the Walking Trails

While the safari bus is a major draw, don't overlook the walking trails that wind through various themed zones of the zoo. These paths allow for a more leisurely exploration and offer chances to see animals that might be harder to spot from the bus, or those housed in more traditional enclosures. Instagram+1

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. TikTok+1

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. Reddit

The New Elephant Habitat: A Majestic Addition

Werribee Open Range Zoo has recently welcomed a significant new resident: a herd of nine Asian elephants, including three calves. This move from Melbourne Zoo marks a major development for the facility, with the elephants now residing in a world-class, 21-hectare habitat. TikTok

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. TikTokInstagram

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. TikTok

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