Werribee Open Range Zoo: A Safari Adventure Close to Melbourne

Located just 30 minutes from Melbourne’s city center, Werribee Open Range Zoo is one of Australia’s most exciting wildlife attractions, offering a unique African safari experience right here in Victoria. Unlike traditional zoos, Werribee Zoo immerses visitors in open-range habitats that closely replicate the natural environments of the animals. Sprawling over 225 hectares, this incredible wildlife park is home to some of the world’s most iconic animals, including lions, rhinos, hippos, giraffes, and zebras.

What sets Werribee Zoo apart is its focus on conservation, education, and creating memorable, immersive encounters that bring visitors closer to wildlife than ever before. From walking trails to safari tours, behind-the-scenes experiences, and ranger-led presentations, the zoo offers something for every animal lover. Here’s a closer look at its highlights.

African Savannah: Step Into the Wild

The heart of Werribee Zoo is its breathtaking African Savannah exhibit, designed to mimic the vast grasslands of Africa. This open-range environment allows animals to roam freely, just as they would in the wild.

Here, you’ll find herds of giraffes gracefully walking across the plains, zebras grazing side by side with antelope, and rhinos resting under the Australian sun. The wide, open spaces make it feel as though you’ve stepped onto another continent, providing an unforgettable backdrop for your visit.

The African Savannah is best experienced aboard the zoo’s Safari Bus (more on that later), but there are also designated lookout points where visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the animals. The naturalistic setting ensures that both animals and visitors enjoy a safe, enriching experience.

Walking Trails: Explore at Your Own Pace

For those who prefer to wander and take their time, walking trails provide a relaxing way to explore the zoo. Meandering through carefully designed habitats, the trails allow visitors to see animals up close while learning more about their behaviors and conservation needs.

Some highlights along the walking trails include:

• Lion Gorge: Watch magnificent African lions in their naturalistic enclosure, complete with rocky outcrops and shaded viewing areas.

• Gorilla Forest: Marvel at the strength and intelligence of Western lowland gorillas in a lush, forested habitat.

• Australian Journey: Explore the local wildlife of Australia, including kangaroos, koalas, and emus, in a peaceful bushland setting.

These trails are designed with families in mind, with plenty of interactive signs, resting spots, and immersive elements like viewing platforms and glass walls that allow you to safely get closer to the animals.

Behind-the-Scenes Experiences: Meet the Animals

For those who want a truly unforgettable day, behind-the-scenes experiences give visitors a rare opportunity to see how the zoo cares for its animals and meet them up close. These VIP-style tours, led by knowledgeable keepers, provide insight into the daily life of zoo animals and their caretakers.

Some popular behind-the-scenes options include:

• Giraffe Encounter: Hand-feed one of the tallest animals on Earth while learning fascinating facts about their behavior and conservation.

• Lion Experience: Get an exclusive look at the lions’ night dens and learn about the efforts to protect this vulnerable species.

• Rhino Encounter: Meet one of the zoo’s southern white rhinos and learn about the challenges they face in the wild.

These experiences are ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, or anyone looking to make a deeper connection with the animals.

Hippo Beach: A Splash of Fun

One of the most unique and popular exhibits at Werribee Zoo is Hippo Beach. This watery habitat gives visitors the chance to see hippos both above and below the surface.

The enclosure is designed to replicate a natural African riverbank, with sandy beaches, lush vegetation, and crystal-clear viewing windows that allow guests to watch these enormous animals glide gracefully underwater. Informative signs explain their social structure, diet, and behavior, while ranger talks often coincide with feeding sessions, offering even more insight into these fascinating creatures.

Hippo Beach is a favorite among families, providing a mix of education and entertainment for all ages.

Safari Bus Tour: A Journey Across the Savannah

The Safari Bus Tour is Werribee Zoo’s signature experience and an absolute must-do. This guided 40-minute tour takes visitors deep into the heart of the African Savannah, where they can see animals roaming freely in large open spaces.

The safari-style buses are equipped with open windows and elevated seating, ensuring every passenger has a clear view of the wildlife. Knowledgeable guides share fascinating stories about each animal and the zoo’s conservation initiatives, making the ride both exciting and educational.

During the tour, you’ll encounter:

• Towering giraffes stretching their necks to feed.

• Zebras grazing in herds.

• Antelope species like the majestic eland and scimitar-horned oryx.

• Southern white rhinos, one of the largest land animals on Earth.

The Safari Bus Tour is included with general admission, making it one of the best-value experiences in Melbourne.

Ranger Talks and Presentations: Learn From the Experts

One of the zoo’s greatest strengths is its team of passionate rangers and educators. Throughout the day, visitors can attend ranger talks and presentations to learn more about the animals, their natural habitats, and the zoo’s conservation efforts.

These interactive sessions often include feeding demonstrations, Q&A opportunities, and behind-the-scenes stories from keepers. Some popular talks focus on lions, gorillas, and hippos, providing unique insights into their daily care and wild behaviors.

For children, these presentations are a fun and engaging way to spark curiosity and inspire a love of wildlife.

Animal Encounters: Get Closer Than Ever

In addition to the behind-the-scenes experiences, the zoo offers a variety of animal encounters that allow visitors to safely interact with some of their favorite species.

From hand-feeding giraffes to watching cheetahs during enrichment sessions, these encounters give guests a rare glimpse into the lives of these incredible creatures. Encounters are carefully designed to prioritize animal welfare, ensuring that every interaction is positive and stress-free for the animals.

Animal encounters are highly popular, so booking in advance is recommended for anyone looking to make their visit extra special.

Wildlife Conservation: Making a Difference

Werribee Open Range Zoo isn’t just a place to see animals—it’s a leader in wildlife conservation. The zoo is part of Zoos Victoria, a not-for-profit conservation organization committed to fighting wildlife extinction.

The zoo participates in global breeding programs for endangered species like the southern white rhino and scimitar-horned oryx, helping to ensure their survival. Locally, Werribee Zoo is deeply involved in protecting Australian species, including the critically endangered Eastern Barred Bandicoot and Helmeted Honeyeater.

Every ticket purchased supports these initiatives, meaning your visit directly contributes to saving wildlife. For those who want to go further, the zoo offers adoptions, donations, and volunteer opportunities, allowing visitors to actively participate in conservation efforts.

A Must-Visit Destination for Wildlife Lovers

Werribee Open Range Zoo offers an experience like no other in Australia. With its African Savannah landscapes, thrilling safari tours, and unforgettable animal encounters, it’s a place where visitors of all ages can connect with nature and gain a deeper appreciation for wildlife.

Whether you’re feeding a giraffe, watching hippos at Hippo Beach, or learning from passionate rangers, every moment at Werribee Zoo is an adventure. The zoo’s dedication to conservation and animal welfare makes it a world-class destination that’s as inspiring as it is entertaining.

For families, couples, photographers, or solo travelers, Werribee Zoo provides a perfect day out—just a short drive from Melbourne but a world away in atmosphere. Step into the wild and experience the magic of Africa without leaving Australia.