melbourne zoo visit

Melbourne Zoo

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Melbourne Zoo

• Family and kids
• Entertainment

All members and visitors must pre-book a ticket online. You will not be able to book tickets at the gate.

Over 300 species of animals can be found in the beautifully landscaped settings of Melbourne Zoo, just minutes from the central city.

Stroll through an Asian village and garden setting to see the majestic Asian elephants. See unique Australian wildlife, encounter sleek Sumatran tigers, watch orangutans swinging through the trees, or submerge in an underwater world to see Victoria’s native penguin species and Australian fur seals.

There are also interactive exhibits where visitors have the chance to learn all about the zoo's animals, the fight to save wildlife from extinction, and what visitors can do to help.

Children under 16 years of age receive free entry every weekend, during Victorian Government school holidays and on Victorian public holidays.

Melbourne Zoo Elliott Ave Parkville 3052

Contact details

• telephone number: 1300 966 784
• email address: [email protected]
• Book online for Melbourne Zoo
• Visit website for Melbourne Zoo

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The only guide you need for a fun day out at Melbourne Zoo

Things to do in Melbourne Melbourne Attractions Melbourne Zoos & Aquariums Melbourne Zoo

A zoological park located within the Royal Park in Parkville, the Melbourne Zoo is the city's oldest zoo. With more than 320 species of animals from Australia and around the world, the Melbourne Zoo is a popular attraction for both tourists and locals. Its proximity to the city centre of Melbourne also makes it a great hit amongst travelers who are in the city for a day and don't have the bandwidth to travel too much. The zoo opened in 1862 at the site of Royal Park and was modeled after the London Zoo. Make a trip to the Melbourne Zoo to discover Australia's rich wildlife in the heart of the city. Before heading there, here's all you need to know.

Why You Should Visit The Melbourne Zoo?

• Located just 4 km from Melbourne's city centre, the Melbourne Zoo offers a great respite from the chatter and bustle of the city.
• Melbourne Zoo is home to over 300 different species of animals including Australian natives such as wombats, koalas and kangaroos.
• Make your way to the Lion Gorge where the king of the jungle awaits you in all its majestic glory and hypnotic elegance.
• Take a leisurely stroll along the Elephant Trail and get the once in a lifetime opportunity of seeing Asian elephants up close!
• With over 5000 animals located in the heart of the city, Melbourne Zoo isn't like your other zoos or parks. You can reach the zoo using any means of public or private transport.
• With Melbourne Zoo tickets , you'll also have the opportunity to pet and get pictures clicked with the most iconic animal in all of Australia; kangaroo!
• Take a much deserved break from traveling around the city and enjoy the peace and tranquillity of the Melbourne Zoo.
• The zoo is designed to emulate the natural habitats of the animals that are housed in it, ensuring that the animals are always comfortable and have the option to hide in the enclosures if they want to.

All in all, the Melbourne Zoo deserves a visit!

Melbourne Zoo Tickets

You can buy your Melbourne Zoo tickets online in advance and skip the hassle of standing in queues outside the zoo. Use the coupon code GOAUS for an extra AU$10 off your Melbourne Zoo tickets.

Melbourne Zoo Itinerary - How To Plan Your Day

Explore Melbourne Zoo in the most optimal way possible with our handy itinerary and zone-wise breakdown of the park. Use this map to navigate yourself around the zoo.

1 Growing Wild

The first section immediately after you enter through the main gate is Growing Wild. This interactive play area is designed for children aged 3-8 and is home to friendly meerkats, giant tortoise, brush turkeys, reptiles, insects and more!

2 Gorilla Rainforest

The next stop in your itinerary is the Gorilla Rainforest which is modeled after an African jungle. Here, gorillaz rule the land, monkeys and apes sing from tree tops and lemurs roam free. Pygmy Hippopotamus and the Cassowary are some of the other animals waiting to meet you here.

3 Trail of the Elephant

Next up, you'll get to explore Melbourne Zoo's award-winning Asian village at the Trail of the Elephant. Here, you'll get to learn about the endangered Asian elephant and watch the majestic creature in its natural habitat. Free guided tours of the trail run by zoo volunteers are available as well.

4 Time to Play!

Take a break at the Carousel Park where your kids can play in the sandpit or swing from the monkey bars. If you're visiting on the weekend, you can ride the carousel as well!

Continue your journey through Melbourne Zoo at Wild Sea. This incredible underwater space is home to some remarkable animals and plants from Victoria's coast and ocean. There's a beach here with sand dunes and pier where you can enjoy penguins and seals playing.

6 Lion Gorge

A thrilling carnivores trail awaits you at Lion Gorge. Come face to face with ferocious creatures, such as lions, big cats, Snow Leopards, Philippine Crocodile and African wild dogs. During your walk through Lion Gorge, you'll learn about the habitats and survival threats facing lions.

7 Frogs & Reptiles

From colourful frogs to colour changing lizards, there's a lot to see at the Frogs & Reptiles zone. There's a snake house here as well where you can try and spot the biggest snake!

8 Larger Than Life

Like the name suggests, this special zone is home to the tallest animal in the animal kingdom; giraffes. Spot the tallest giraffe during your walk through this zone. There are also zebras, platypus and baboons coexisting peacefully in this area.

9 Australian Bush

The final stop of your Melbourne Zoo journey is a special one. Embark on an Aussie adventure at the crazy Australian Bush. Greet Southern Koalas, Tasmanian Devils, kangaroos, wombats and more. You can also spot native birds here including parrots, honeyeaters, Red-tailed black cockatoos and emus.

Melbourne Zoo Experiences You Cannot Miss

Australian wildlife tour.

Get morning access to Melbourne Zoo's Australian Bush habitat before it opens to the public and enjoy a peaceful time meeting and feeding native Australian animals like kangaroos and wombats.

Cost: $45 per person (excluding general admission)

Close up encounters

If coming face-to-face with some of the Melbourne Zoo's most popular animals is on your wishlist, this experience is tailor made for you. You'll be escorted to your favourite animal's natural habitat by knowledgeable staff and indulge in a brief encounter with it.

• Cost: $32 per person and $28.8 for zoo members

Roar 'n' Snore overnight camp

Prepare for a jungle camp like the ones you would read about in novels. Dinner at the Elephant House, after-dark zoo exploration and stories about wild animals from your host, all make up this exhilarating experience. You'll be provided with a private tent to sleep in at night post which you can enjoy breakfast and a chance to meet animals up-close.

Cost: $205 per adult and $150 per child Saturday: $225 per adult and $160 per child

Visit the Sumatran Tigers

Get the exclusive experience of meeting the endangered Sumatran Tigers and the dedicated keeper who looks after them. During your meeting, you'll learn about the plight of these critically endangered tigers and what the zoo is doing to care for them.

Cost: $55 per person and $49.5 for zoo members

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Know Before You Visit The Melbourne Zoo

Opening hours melbourne zoo.

The Melbourne Zoo timings are as below:

• Mon to Sun - 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM during summer holidays

Directions to Melbourne Zoo

• Via Car: Located only 20 minutes from Melbourne Airport, the zoo is mere minutes from the city centre. Car parking is $2 for five hours.
• Via Bus: Route 505 from Moonee Ponds to Melbourne University stops right in front of Melbourne Zoo.
• Via Train: Take any train from Flinders Street Station on the Upfield line and alight at the Royal Park station. The zoo entrance is just across the road from the status
• Via Tram: Take route 58 train between West Coburg and Toorak which runs via William Street in the city centre. The tram stops directly outside the zoo at stop 26 and runs every 6 minutes

Facilities available at Melbourne zoo

• Lakeside Cafe
• Giraffe Lookout Cafe
• Group catering available
• Pavilion hire and picnic facilities
• Accessible parking
• Wheelchair and stroller rentals
• Accessible toilets
• Guided mobile tours
• Baby changing room
• Drinking water stations

Insider Tips For Your Melbourne Zoo Visit

Here are a few tips and hacks for a wonderful day in Melbourne .

• Entry to the Melbourne zoo is free on school holidays. However, if you wish to avoid crowds, avoid visiting the zoo on school holidays.
• The Melbourne Zoo is the perfect place to enjoy a picnic with the whole family. There are designated spots within the zoo where you can stop and spread your packed lunch and enjoy a picnic.
• Parking at Melbourne Zoo costs AU$2 for 5 hour, a reasonable enough time to make the most of your time here.
• The Melbourne Zoo opens at 9:00 AM and we would recommend visiting the zoo as early in the morning as possible. This will not only ensure that you avoid the crowd that comes on later in the day but also have a better chance of seeing the animals since they're known to be out and about at the start of the day.
• Apart from just looking at animals, the Melbourne Zoo is also a great place to learn about environmental conservation and endangered species in Australia. If you're traveling with kids, this edutainment goes a long way.
• Avoid wasting time in the neverending queues by booking your Melbourne Zoo tickets online. This is especially beneficial while traveling with children as long queues can be quite cumbersome.
• Grab a map of the zoo at the entrance and plan your visit according to the route suggested for an optimal experience. This will also help you save time and reduce chances of getting lost!

Melbourne Zoo Reviews

Would absolutely recommend this zoo, so many different animals to see and would definitely recommend the meerkats close up. I travelled alone and spent the full day there, would be a great experience for families as they also have toilets, a cafe, picnic areas, and phone charging stations.

Kizza, Tripadvisor 2019

The zoo is such a great day out. You can take a quick zip around for several hours or spend the entire day. All animal enclosures are built with the animals in mind but also with plenty of viewing areas for us to see them. There are plenty of areas to enjoy a picnic lunch. There are plenty of areas to buy lunch or snacks and drinks. A truly wonderful day.

RosewallWoman2, Tripadvisor 2019

Melbourne Zoo FAQs

All your questions answered, how much is entry to melbourne zoo.

Melbourne Zoo Tickets cost AU$38 per person for adults (above 16 years) and AU$19 per child (4-15 years).

Is Melbourne Zoo free on weekends?

Kids under the age of 16 may visit Melbourne Zoo for free on the weekends. Make sure you bring your identification card.

Can you take your own food to Melbourne Zoo?

You may bring your own lunch and have a picnic in Melbourne Zoo.

How long do you need at the Melbourne Zoo?

Set aside 3-4 hours for your visit to Melbourne Zoo.

How much is parking at Melbourne Zoo?

Car parking is AU$2 for a five hour ticket.

Can I cancel Melbourne Zoo tickets?

Melbourne Zoo Tickets does not have a cancellation policy. Date change is permitted. However, it is subjected to availability.

How many animals are in the Melbourne Zoo?

There are 5,120 animals in Melbourne Zoo.

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Born to parents bit by the wander bug, Lakshmi calls her love for travel "hereditary and habitual". Perpetually ensconced with a book in her hand and a mug of coffee in the other, she has been to over 15 countries in her 23 years of existence and is currently saving miles and money for her solo trip to Iceland. Always hustling towards the least trodden path, she has encountered some wonderful people during her escapades and if you ever meet her, she won't stop gushing about them.

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Melbourne Zoo – tickets, prices, discounts, keeper talks, animals

Melbourne Zoo is an opportunity to see fascinating wildlife in the heart of Melbourne city.

Besides the 320 species of animals, Melbourne Zoo is also home to 70,000 species of plants from around the World.

The zoo is also renowned for its breeding programs for several endangered species, including the Tasmanian devil, the orange-bellied parrot, and the eastern barred bandicoot.

It is also known as The Royal Melbourne Zoological Gardens.

There are also several cafes and restaurants throughout the zoo and picnic areas for visitors to enjoy.

This article explains everything you must know before buying your Melbourne Zoo ticket.

Top Melbourne Zoo Tickets

# Regular Melbourne Zoo tickets # VIP early morning tour of Melbourne Zoo # Melbourne Zoo entrance + Kangaroo encounter

Table of contents

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A  regular Melbourne Zoo adult ticket  (16+ years) costs A$ 42.

If you visit with kids aged 3 years and younger, Melbourne Zoo prices are lower because kids get the biggest discounts.

Kids three years and below get a 100% discount at Melbourne Zoo – they enter for free.

The best discount, however, is reserved for kids aged 4 to 15 years.

On weekdays, they get a 50% discount on the adult ticket price; thus, kids’ ticket is priced at A$ 21.

And on weekends, Victorian Public Holidays, and Victorian Government school holidays, kids can enter the Melbourne Zoo for free.

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Melbourne Zoo tickets

Melbourne Zoo is now open, but everyone must book their tickets online before visiting. Ticket counters at the venue are closed.  To ensure social distancing, the Zoo restricts 2,500 visitors daily, so you must book tickets much in advance.

The zoo offers three kinds of experiences:

– Regular Zoo Entry – Zoo entry + Kangaroo encounter – VIP entry, early in the morning

This ticket is the cheapest and the most popular Melbourne Zoo entry ticket.

It is also known as the one-day general admission ticket, and more than 90% of visitors go for this option.

You can see all the animals worldwide at your own pace and attend the ZooKeeper talks and presentations.

Ticket prices

Adult ticket (16+ years): A$ 42 Child ticket (4 to 15 years): A$ 21*

*This price is applicable on weekdays. The kids enter for free on weekends, public holidays, and school holidays.

This 45-minute VIP tour gives exclusive early morning access to the Melbourne Zoo before its gates open to the general public.

This experience is also known as the Australian Wildlife Tour at Melbourne Zoo.

During this small group tour led by a Zoo Ranger, you also get a chance to feed the Kangaroos and listen to their passionate keepers.

After the 45 minutes VIP tour, you can explore the zoo alone.

Per person ticket price: A$ 45

This experience is temporarily suspended because of Covid-19.

Besides the regular Melbourne Zoo admission, this ticket gets you an up-close encounter with a mob of kangaroos.

During the 15-minute encounter with the Kangaroos, you learn about these social animals from their keepers.

These tickets are in demand, so booking your encounter online well before your visit is best.

Adult ticket (16+ years): A$ 70 Child ticket (1 to 15 years): A$ 51

Spend a day engaging with Australian wildlife by booking Penguin Parade and Koalas Tour .

Melbourne Zoo opens at 9 am and closes at 5 pm every day of the year.

As per Victoria State’s policy, the Zoo remains open even on Christmas Day and other public holidays.

All animal areas close at 4.30 pm.

The best time to visit Melbourne Zoo is when they open at 9 am.

There are four advantages of starting early – the animals are most active early in the morning, the temperatures are still moderate, the crowd is yet to get in, and you have the whole day to explore.

We recommend weekdays for a peaceful visit because it gets crowded on weekends and school holidays.

If you reach the Melbourne Zoo during peak times, you will see the same people in line to buy entry tickets at the animal exhibits, keeper talk sessions, and restaurants.

Best Months: From a weather perspective, it is best to visit the Melbourne Zoo from May to August.

Important: When you buy Melbourne Zoo tickets online , you can skip the long lines and walk in.

Melbourne Zoo is in Royal Park, only 10 minutes North of the City Centre.

From the Melbourne Airport, the Zoo is 18 km (11 Miles) away, and a quick 20 minutes drive can help you reach there.

Melbourne Zoo’s Address: Elliot Ave, Parkville VIC 3052, Melbourne, Australia. Get Directions

If you prefer taking the Tram to reach the Melbourne Zoo, you must board Tram #58, which runs the route from Toorak to West Coburg.

You can get onto the Tram from William Street in the City Centre and get down at Stop 26, right in front of the Melbourne Zoo.

The travel time is 18 minutes.

Train to Melbourne Zoo

Depending on where you are starting from, you need to take different trains to reach the Melbourne Zoo.

From within Melbourne

Royal Park Station on the Upfield railway line is the closest train station to Melbourne Zoo.

If you prefer a train ride to get to Melbourne Zoo from within the city, board a train from Flinders Street station , which is also on Upfield line, and get to Royal Park Station.

Traveling from Regional Victoria

V/Line trains are regional public transport trains for Victoria state.

You can catch a V/Line train from all of Victoria’s big cities and towns..  

Find the nearest V/Line station and take a train to Southern Cross Station .

From the Southern Cross Station, you must get on to another train going towards Upfield.

Four stations and 10 minutes later, you will reach Royal Park Station.

A quick 100 meters walk can get you to the Melbourne Zoo.

Board Route 505 bus to reach the Melbourne Zoo.

The bus covers the route from Moonee Ponds to Melbourne University.

Melbourne Zoo parking

If you plan to drive to the Melbourne Zoo, we recommend you start early or choose a non-peak period for your visit.

There is limited parking space during school and public holidays. Click here to know more about the nearby parking lots.

A five-hour parking ticket will cost you A$ 2.

Make sure you display the ticket correctly on your dashboard because Melbourne city’s parking officers regularly patrol the area.

By Hop-On-Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus

If you have booked a Hop-on-Hop-off Sightseeing bus in Melbourne, you can also use that to reach the Zoo.

Since the HOHO bus makes ten trips per day, you also have flexibility on your visit timing.

You can get onto the bus at multiple locations throughout the city, including Federation Square and Carlton.

Once you explore the Melbourne Zoo, you can catch the Hop-on-Hop-off bus from the Zoo’s main entrance on Elliott Avenue to get back.

Book a combo of SEA LIFE Melbourne + Melbourne Zoo and get 10% discount. Book once and enhance your experience.

How long does Melbourne Zoo take

If you and your kids love to participate in Zoo activities, keeper talks, etc., your tour of Melbourne Zoo can last four to six hours.

A quick stroll across the 3 Kms (1.9 Miles) of the exploratory area of Melbourne Zoo takes approximately 45 minutes.

We present below three routes you can follow depending on your time.

If you are in a hurry, this is the perfect map to follow because you will be able to finish your exploration in an hour.

This is the perfect Melbourne Zoo itinerary if you have at least two hours.

If you follow this route, you will see the trail of elephants, rainforest animals, and the Wild Sea in the two hours needed.

If you are visiting the Melbourne Zoo with your kids or have all the time in the World, we recommend you follow this path.

You get to see every exhibit there is in this Australian Zoo.

Melbourne Zoo animals

The Melbourne Zoo has more than 300 species of animals, and some of them are more popular than the others.

The Western Lowland Gorillas are one of the most famous exhibits at the Melbourne Zoo.

At this Australian Zoo, you can see four of them – three females named Yuska, Kanzi, and Kimya and one male Gorilla named Otana.

If you want intimate details about these Gorillas, attend the Daily Keeper Talk at 10.45 am.

Don’t miss out on seeing the Asian Elephants at the Melbourne Zoo.

These elephants can roam around and forage on the award-winning Trail of the Elephants, which allows them to walk between 6.21 km to 15 km in a day.

Keep aside some time for the Elephant-keeper talk at 11 am.

Koalas are one of the most adorable Australian species at the Melbourne Zoo.

The Koala Keeper show scheduled at 11 am daily, is one of the most popular Keeper talks.

You can’t be visiting an Australian Zoo and not see the country’s most iconic animal, i.e., the Kangaroo.

The Kangaroo Island Mob (Kangaroos live in mobs with a dominant male as their leader) at the Melbourne Zoo attracts many visitors.

If you prefer a close-up encounter with the Kangaroo, book much in advance for the limited slots, and fill up fast.

Melbourne Zoo is one of the many Zoos worldwide trying their best to bring the Tigers to their past glory.

Kids especially love this endangered species.

Tiger Keeper talks are organized at 3.30 pm every day.

Aldabra Giant Tortoises are classified as vulnerable and are the only remaining giant tortoise species still surviving in the wild.

They can grow to over 1 meter (3.2 feet) in length and weigh up to 250 Kgs (550 pounds). Females weigh less at 150 Kgs (330 Pounds).

These tortoises are quite popular with kids, so the 1.30 pm keeper talk gets crowded.

Lions in the Melbourne Zoo are a sight to behold.

If you want to know more about these fantastic creatures and their daily activities, do not miss the Lion Keeper talk at 12.30 pm.

Keeper Talks at Melbourne Zoo

Some species of animals in the Melbourne Zoo are cared for by their respective keepers.

These keepers are responsible for feeding them and providing them with any additional care as and when required.

Every day, these Zoo keepers share their knowledge and experience at a pre-determined time, also known as Keeper Talks.

Watch at least a few of these Keeper talks during your visit for a more immersing experience.

The talks are hosted daily and are completely free.

Most popular: Penguin keeper’s talk at 3:45 pm and Koala keeper’s speech at 11 am get crowded.

If your kid loves being around animals, Keeper Kids Playspace is a unique opportunity to get closer to nature.

The Playspace offers a range of fun activities that help the kids connect with the natural world through imagination and games.

In a few hours, kids learn what it takes to work at the Zoo, what the different animals eat, and even prepare mock meals for their favorite animals.

Having a copy of the Melbourne Zoo map with you is best for easily navigating the various exhibits and other interactive sessions the zoo offers.

Besides the animal enclosures, a map helps you identify visitor services such as restaurants, restrooms, souvenir shops, etc.

Carrying the Melbourne Zoo’s layout is even more necessary if you are traveling with kids because you won’t waste your time finding the various exhibits, and in the process get exhausted.

Download Melbourne Zoo’s map

Melbourne Zoo has several good quality and hygienic food options.

However, they are expensive.

On peak days, these restaurants also witness long queues.

It is best to get your snacks and drinks to avoid the rush at these restaurants and make your trip cost-effective.

You can also bring a blanket and enjoy an excellent picnic with your family and friends wherever and whenever it suits you. 

Restaurants at Melbourne Zoo

This Australian Zoo has eight different restaurants and cafes.

Lakeside Cafe: Enjoy amazing a la carte dining in the Lakeside Cafe with various vegan dishes alongside mouthwatering chefs specials.

Giraffe Lookout Cafe: Get to taste some of the best hot wraps and spicy BBQ Kransky while gazing at the giraffes from the Giraffe Lookout Cafe.

Elephant Kiosk: Take advantage of the opportunity to explore South Asian-inspired cuisine at the famous Elephant Kiosk.

Zoo Bakery: If you are in the mood for some fresh hot pastries and sweet bakery treats, go no further than the Zoo Bakery in the Zoo.

Meerkat Manor Cafe: If you enjoy light snacks with the family, stop at the Meerkat Manor Cafe for some sandwiches and coffee.

Macaw Takeaway: Here, you get some of the best burgers, fish, and hot chips.

Macaw Pizza: Mouthwatering Pizza served with a scoop of ice cream is perfect for the kids.

Wild Dogs: The Wild Dogs serves the best Sandwiches and snacks with coffee while you rest and rejuvenate.

Melbourne Zoo hosts a delicious high tea on one Sunday each month and fortnightly during winter.

The package includes a selection of sweet and savory items, Tea and coffee, and one hour of free access to the Zoo before the start of High Tea at 1.30 pm.

The High Tea happens at the famous Rainforest Room of the Melbourne Zoo.

If you are a Member of the Zoo, you pay less for the High Tea experience.

Roar and Snore is a unique camping opportunity where one spends the night at the Melbourne Zoo.

After a tour of the Zoo to see the nocturnal creatures, you wine and dine, listening to your camp host’s animal stories.

After the night’s activities, you retire for a good night’s sleep in your tent and wake up to have up-close interactions with the keepers.

After the keeper and animal sessions, you explore the Zoo again the next day.

Tourists planning a visit to the Melbourne Zoo have a lot of questions about the tickets, entry passes, and memberships.

We answer them here –

The price of the Family Pass depends on the opted combination.   Two adults and two children: A$ 93 Two adults and three children: A$ 102.50 Two adults and four children: A$ 112 Two adults and five children: A$ 121.50   Family passes are available only on weekdays except for Victorian Public holidays and Victorian Government school holidays.

Kids three years and below can enter the Melbourne Zoo for free all through the year.   The Melbourne Zoo allows free entry to kids from 4 to 15 years on weekends, Victorian Public Holidays and Victorian Government School Holidays.   If you have availed the Zoo membership, then the entry for kids aged  4 to 15 years is free all year through.  Buy your tickets now!

Melbourne Zoo membership includes unlimited entry to three Zoos – the Melbourne Zoo, Werribee Zoo, and Healesville Sanctuary. Express entry at each zoo to skip the queues.   Kids register for the membership for free. Yes, that’s right – only the adults have to pay.   Adults Membership: A$ 126 Seniors Membership: A$ 114 Concession Membership: A$ 96* *This rate applies to Australian pensioners, full-time student, disabled individuals, etc.

Sources # Wikipedia.org # Visitvictoria.com # Tripadvisor.com The travel specialists at TheBetterVacation.com use only high-quality sources while researching & writing their articles. We make every attempt to keep our content current, reliable and trustworthy .

Popular attractions in Melbourne

# Puffing Billy # Melbourne Aquarium # Werribee Zoo # Eureka Skydeck

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This article was researched & written by

She has a passion for both traveling and photography, which help her document her memories forever. She loves to explore city streets taking in the people, the colors, and the culture surrounding her. Occasionally she loves to step away from the hustle-bustle of urban lifestyle, and chill-out either alone or with friends. Favorite Cities: Istanbul, London, Marrakech, Venice

Edited by Rekha Rajan & fact checked by Jamshed V Rajan

3 thoughts on “Melbourne Zoo – tickets, prices, discounts, keeper talks, animals”

I would look at any of the Zoo’s hiring page info on their websites. I myself don’t work for the zoo, and this page here (theBetterVacation.com) is only a travel guide’s blog with very useful assistance for the various places she has visited around the world. I have seen that the Australia Zoo (the Irwins) does make a point of saying that they hire those with disabilities…so that might be a good place to start a search.

Contact the HR dept and ask about opportunities that might be available working in any capacity there to get yourself the chance to meet staff and learn more. Covid pandemic may impact jobs, but that won’t last forever!

I have a very high passion for animals and my favorites are the lions, tigers,rhinos, zebras, actually I love them all. I’m handicapped and I want to visit Australia in the near future. Is the zoo handicapped accessible? Along with the restaurants? My wish is to work with the animals one day only if I can find a zoo that will hire me. Hope to hear from you soon. Cheers

Hi, I answered your inquiry below about jobs, but forgot to say YES, the zoos are handicap accessible and I’ve seen that wheelchairs are available for use during the visit. Check with each specific zoo’s website for more details. But calling is always helpful because they can provide you answers to more questions you might have that relate to your own situation for your future visit. Cheers!

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A Visit To The Melbourne Zoo

Nestled in Parkville, Victoria, and located just 4.3 km from the Melbourne Central Business District (CBD), the Melbourne Zoo is among the most widely visited zoos in Australia. This zoo offers an immersive experience through its stunning landscapes and well-planned habitats, which enable visitors to interact with a wide range of fascinating wildlife. The zoo is spread over 22 hectares of land, which provides visitors with a wide variety of wildlife experiences and conservation programs. The Melbourne Zoo has developed into a vibrant sanctuary for more than 250 species, allowing visitors to view such a broad range of animal kingdoms in a single visit to the zoo. Being one of the most renowned and historic zoological parks in Australia, this zoo is growing into a flourishing sanctuary for a unique and informative experience for people of all ages.

The Melbourne Zoo was founded in 1862 by the Royal Zoological Society of Victoria. The initial goal of the zoo was to take care of and observe the wonders of the animal kingdom. In its early years, it focused on exhibiting local Australian species. The zoo has expanded over time, including a wider variety of species and contributing to conservation efforts and public education. The Melbourne Zoo is now a hub for research, education, and the promotion of wildlife conservation, along with serving as a popular tourist destination. Melbourne Zoo has served as an example of its constant dedication to animal conservation, education, and protecting the planet’s amazing wildlife.

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Melbourne zoo experiences you cannot miss.

Melbourne Zoo provides visitors with a range of amazing experiences and unforgettable encounters with the immense animal kingdom. Get ready for a unique experience that reveals the most amazing and significant things about this dynamic zoo. From close-up interactions with endangered species to immersive displays, this palace has it all.

Take a leisurely stroll that promises an enjoyable walking experience, or indulge in an even greater level of excitement with their premium encounters, which come at a slightly higher cost. You can also witness the zoo’s overnight experience, which offers an exciting way for adventure seekers to explore a nighttime environment.

1. Kangaroo Experience

Discover the extraordinary adventure with our exclusive kangaroo encounter, where the expert keepers will guide you through the captivating world of these iconic Australian creatures. As you explore the kangaroo exhibits, you will get a chance to develop a relationship with these amazing animals, making lifelong memories. The keepers make sure that every interaction is unique so that each kangaroo’s unique personality may be highlighted.

2. Giraffes Experience

Experience a remarkable journey at Giraffe Lookout by joining the committed Ungulate keepers for a unique behind-the-scenes experience. Explore the amazing world of Nakuru and Klintun, the two beautiful giraffes, and build a close relationship with these amazing animals. This exclusive experience, guided by keepers, will reveal Nakuru and Klintun’s distinct personalities. Enjoy the pleasure of seeing these elegant giraffes and learn about professional care. Get ready for an unparalleled experience where every visit guarantees a unique and remarkable bond with these amazing animals.

3. Tiger Experience

Experience a unique adventure at Melbourne Zoo with the passionate and committed keepers as you experience the critically endangered Sumatran Tigers. This amazing encounter gives you unique access to regions usually available to zookeepers, giving you a unique look into the lives of these magnificent animals. Discover the crucial conservation initiatives put forward to protect Sumatran tigers. Come together to spread awareness about the critical need to preserve and conserve the declining number of Sumatran tigers in their natural habitat since three tiger species have already gone extinct.

4. Gorillas Experience

Enjoy an incredible journey into the heart of the amazing world of Melbourne Zoo with our special encounter, which includes the critically endangered Western Lowland Gorillas. As the guide reveals the mysteries of gorilla life, you will be able to fully immerse yourself in every detail of their complicated community. Explore behind the scenes for an unforgettable opportunity to feed these amazing creatures delicious food, enhancing their day in the process of feeding. Be a part of this incredible journey that contributes to preserving the variety of our planet’s priceless species.

5. Meerkat Experience

Engage yourself in the fascinating world of meerkats to enhance your visit to Melbourne Zoo. Explore the fascinating world of these curious animals, where you may engage with them and develop a stronger bond with them. Learn the insider secrets of meerkat life as the keepers share insights into their behaviour, habits, and various enriching strategies. Experience a behind-the-scenes look that guarantees uniqueness and lets each meerkat show its distinct personality. Explore the creative techniques used to maintain the health and promote the natural habits of these creatures.

6. Orangutan Experience

Visit Melbourne Zoo to go on a unique experience and see the amazing and highly endangered great apes. Under the guidance of the committed keepers, you will be given a unique entry to areas usually reserved for zoo employees. Witness fascinating training sessions involving either siamangs or orangutans, then go up to the roof of the Orangutan Sanctuary for an opportunity of a lifetime to provide enrichment for these amazing animals. Find out more about the environmental problems they face, such as the potential loss of habitat due to unsustainable palm oil farming.

7. Otter Experience

Immerse yourself in the thrill as you witness the otters’ playful and intelligent personalities during their daily training session. Join the Wild Sea keepers behind the scenes for an exclusive otter encounter and set out on an amazing journey. Take part in a fun fishy scatter feed and interact with these adorable creatures. The experience doesn’t end there; you can also learn about the various methods used to act, support, and prevent the extinction of marine mammals and birds. Explore the world of marine life, and along with this, build priceless memories.

8. Reptile House Experience

Take a unique behind-the-scenes tour of our reptile house with the host and hardworking reptile keepers, and start an amazing adventure together. Gain personal knowledge of the habitats and behaviours of snakes, tortoises, and lizards by immersing yourself in their fascinating world. Take part in the routine care of these amazing animals. Discover the critical role keepers play in protecting endangered species like the Southern Corroboree Frog and the Grassland Earless Dragon. Every visit promises to be an unforgettable experience that showcases the unique qualities of each animal.

9. Macaw experience

Visit our unique bird experience and take a captivating tour into the fascinating world of our Blue and Gold Macaws. During training sessions, our colourful Macaws will amaze you with their amazing free-flight skills. Take a minute to wonder at the skies. Along with various fascinating kinds of Amazonian parrots like Green-Winged Macaws, Heinz, and Ruby, your experience is immense. This is an exclusive opportunity for bird lovers to see the extraordinary intelligence and skill of these amazing creatures.

10. Lemur Experience

Visit our knowledgeable keepers as they lead you on an amazing journey through a fascinating lemur walkthrough. Explore the techniques used to preserve the physical and emotional health of the cherished Lemur males during an engaging event. The experienced caretakers will show a variety of enrichment methods aimed at improving their well-being and encouraging their natural habits. Explore the fascinating world of lemurs and take advantage of the unique opportunity to interact with these amazing animals and learn more about their fascinating lifestyles.

11. Seal Experience

Enhance your experience at the Melbourne Zoo by having a memorable interaction with our adorable seals. Enjoy a unique experience as the knowledgeable staff takes you through the exhibit, providing a unique chance to interact closely with these wonderful animals. Enjoy the uniqueness of every behind-the-scenes interaction, as the caretakers put the seals’ health first and then give them the freedom to express who they are. Don’t miss the opportunity to spend time making lifelong memories at the Melbourne Zoo with these lively and sensitive creatures.

12. Elephant Bull Experience

Start your adventure early and enter the zoo through the main gate. This will give you a unique chance to see the daily training sessions and the Elephant Barn. Enjoy the wonder as these amazing animals participate in educational activities that the keepers have carefully chosen. Explore the complex dynamics of the constantly shifting behaviour of a group of elephants, including the adaptation of our newest bull, Luk Chai, and the arrangements for the elephants’ upcoming transfer to Werribee Open Range Zoo. This personal experience offers a unique and unforgettable relationship with these amazing animals, perfect for those who have a strong affection for elephants.

13. Elephant, Keepers and Calves Experience

Join the keepers for a unique and limited journey during the behind-the-scenes experience. Enjoy the daily rituals and observe how training programmes for elephants have changed to meet the specific demands of each animal. Discover the unique characteristics of our elephants, as well as experience the dynamic changes caused by last year’s calves, Aiyara, Roi-Yim, and Kati. These unique interactions provide each animal with the opportunity to shine. Engaging in this experience allows you to directly support conservation efforts to protect these sentient animals.

14. Wild Tales - Elephants

With one of our experienced guides, travel on an exciting journey through the hidden paths of Melbourne Zoo’s Trail of the Elephants. This unique walking tour provides a detailed look at the fascinating past and dynamic social relationships of the elephant group. Start your journey at the iconic elephant display, where the amazing story of Ranee, the first elephant to live at the Melbourne Zoo, is narrated. Visit the zoo for a unique chance to combine education, conservation, and a deep admiration for the amazing elephants that call Melbourne Zoo home.

15. Australian Wildlife Experience

Start on a thrilling early-morning journey to Melbourne Zoo, where you’ll get exclusive access to the wonders of Australian wildlife before opening hours. Watch the lovely koalas, Karri and Waru, wake up, and welcome the sunrise as you start your day. Experience a unique behind-the-scenes view at the kangaroo exhibit, where you can get to know the loving group of kangaroos and their committed caretakers. Discover the fascinating Tamar and Swamp Wallaby species in their native environments. Experience the peacefulness of the early morning and make ever-lasting memories with Melbourne Zoo’s unique morning event.

16. Night Safari

Join the amazing overnight journey at the Melbourne Zoo to get completely engaged in the uniquely riveting experience of the Zoo Night Safari. As soon as you arrive, enjoy delicious drinks and some snacks to set the mood for a memorable evening. The excitement gets doubled when you join the nighttime walking of the zoo, which reveals the fascinating hidden mysteries of fascinating creatures like kangaroos, koalas, and Tasmanian devils. Some nighttime safari adventures offer unique opportunities for close interactions with specific species. This can include feeding sessions or behind-the-scenes glimpses into the zoo’s animals’ daily care routines.

17. Roar 'n' Snore Overnight Camp

Experience a unique Roar ‘n’ Snore camping adventure at Melbourne Zoo. Take your loved ones on a memorable journey and treat them to a special overnight stay at the Melbourne Zoo. Start your evening with a delicious dinner, making timeless memories in the fascinating atmosphere of the Zoo after dark. You might see wildlife that is adapted to surviving in low light, such as bats, owls, night-active primates, and other species. Enjoy captivating stories of wild creatures from the hosts who are laying the foundation for an amazing evening in your tent filled with the mesmerising noises of the wildlife kingdom.

Places to Eat At Melbourne Zoo

As you begin your adventurous trip through the animal kingdom, remember to fill up and refresh at one of the wonderful dining spots. Visit one of the Zoo’s cafes or kiosks for a delicious meal or to get snacks or special treats. Here are some of the best places to eat at the Melbourne Zoo that will satisfy your deepest desires.

1. Lakeside Sushi

2. Giraffe Lookout Cafe

At Giraffe Lookout Cafe, you may experience a variety of refreshing drinks to relieve your thirst, as well as delicious sweets such as baked muffins, cookies, slices, and ice cream. The cafe also provides customers with vegan and low-gluten options to create a delicious eating experience. Whether you want something sweet or savoury, Giraffe Lookout Cafe has it all in one place. So come and enjoy a delicious meal while admiring the views at Melbourne Zoo.

3. Meerkat Cafe

Visit the Meerkat Cafe, which emphasises outstanding vegetarian meals and pleasant beverages. The cafe offers customers a variety of delicious foods, such as tarts, croissants, muffins, slices, and cookies. The meals also include fresh salads and several kinds of ice cream that will satisfy everyone’s cravings. Don’t miss out on the freshest summer juices at Meerkat Café! And to make things easier for you, the cafe provides you with the opportunity to be at a cashless cafe. So come in and try one of the best meals in the heart of the zoo.

4. Macaw Takeaway

Macaw Takeaway serves excellent meals, which include a variety of hot cuisines ideal for satisfying your hunger. The cafe offers summertime grab-and-go salads, sandwiches, wraps, fruit salads, and yoghurt pots that are perfect for a quick and healthy snack. Refresh your thirst with the wide variety of ice creams, soft drinks, juices, and candy, or get some food to eat while exploring the zoo. The latest changes to the menu include crispy barramundi, chicken burgers, and kid-friendly alternatives, so stop by and have a satisfying lunch at Macaw Takeaway.

Final Considerations

The Melbourne Zoo, one of the most popular zoos in Melbourne, highlights the city’s dedication to the conservation of wildlife, education, and biodiversity improvement. The zoo not only provides a thrilling experience for visitors but also plays an important role in raising awareness about the significance of maintaining endangered species and habitats. Visiting Melbourne Zoo has become a pleasure for people of all ages who love animals since it strengthens the relationship between humans and wildlife, developing a greater understanding and respect for the natural world. Melbourne Zoo has worked together to protect animals and their environments, leaving a legacy of conservation and respect for future generations.

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MELBOURNE ZOO: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)

• Melbourne Zoo General Entry Ticket (From S$41.19)
• Melbourne City Card (2 Days): Visit Unlimited Attractions! (From S$187.15)
• The Ultimate Melbourne Attractions Pass (From S$100.11)
• Melbourne Balloon Flight at Sunrise (From S$532.78)
• Melbourne City Card (3 Days): Visit Unlimited Attractions! (From S$240.88)
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• (1.27 km) The Larwill Studio Melbourne - Art Series
• (2.68 km) Zagame's House
• (0.69 km) Urban Camp
• (3.73 km) Treasury On Collins
• (0.10 km) Lakeside Café
• (0.58 km) Parkside Cafe
• (2.41 km) Scopri
• (2.08 km) Pidapipo Gelateria
• (0.59 km) Ho Ho's Canteen
• (0.50 km) Treacey Centre
• (0.52 km) State Netball and Hockey Centre
• (1.84 km) Zero Latency
• (2.53 km) Virtual Room Melbourne
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Please note: Due to construction, our giraffes in Expedition Africa will be taking advantage of some extra morning rest on Tuesdays and Thursdays, with appearances at noon. We appreciate your understanding and continued support!

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Bring the zoo to life from anywhere around the world with live cams, Keeper Talks and other virtual updates.

GO TO: Virtual visit Healesville Sanctuary | Virtual visit Werribee Open Range Zoo | Virtual visit Melbourne Zoo | Watch all Keeper Talks | Watch Live Streams

Live streams (running 24/7)

Check out the 24/7 live streams of some of your favourite animals. You can catch up on what you missed by clicking back on the red line underneath the video. 

Can’t see the animals on the live cams? That’s because our animals live in areas that are much bigger than what a camera can capture.

Please note feeding times are subject to change.

Otters at Melbourne Zoo - Den Cam #1

Meet the Asian Small-clawed Otter family at Melbourne Zoo.  Papa Odie has been teaching his pups at Melbourne Zoo to play wrestle and all the important life skills an otter needs to know!

Can't see the otters? Try Otter Den Cam #2!

Otters at Melbourne Zoo - Den Cam #2

Can't see the otters? They might be exploring their exhibit. Check back in soon!

Lions at Werribee Open Range Zoo

Meet the lazy African Lions of Werribee Open Range Zoo. How many can you spot?

Penguins at Melbourne Zoo

Feeding times.

Between 9-10.30am and between 3-4pm 

Get to know our Little Penguins

• Miss Wing (female) - Two white wing tags
• Nippet (female) - Red and white wing tags
• Wicket (male) - Green and dark blue wing tags
• Homer (male) - Green and yellow wing tags

Snow Leopards at Melbourne Zoo

Between 9am and 10am

Giraffes Melbourne Zoo

FEEDING TIMES

8.45am, 12pm and 4pm

GET TO KNOW OUR GIRAFFES

• Nakuru  (female) - Born in 2012. Our biggest Giraffe. 
• Klintun  (male) - Born in 2018 at Altina Wildlife Park in NSW.
• Iris (female) - Born in 2020 at Darling Downs Zoo in Queensland.

Virtual visit: Healesville Sanctuary

Head out to the Yarra Valley and say hello to some of our native animals.  

Tour the sanctuary

Keeper Talk: Wombat

Keeper Talk: Lyrebird

Animal cam: Land of Parrots

Animal cam: Echidnas

Animal cam: Tree Kangaroos

Animal cam: Koalas

Virtual visit: Werribee Open Range Zoo

Get a taste of Africa as you watch the animals on the open plains. 

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Tour the Savannah

Keeper Talk: Serval

Keeper Talk: Lions

Animal cam: Savannah

Virtual Visit: Melbourne Zoo

Take a tour through a world of wildlife, right from the comfort of your home. 

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Keeper Talk: Orangutans

Keeper Talk: Tiger

Animal cam: Meerkats

Animal cam: Red Panda

Animal cam: Butterfly House

Animal cam: Elephants 

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