When you think the SG Zoo is engaging enough…
Don’t miss out the Werribee Open Range Zoo when you’re over in Melbourne with children or overaged kids! This is an open range zoo where you get to see free roaming animals such as giraffes, zebras, antelopes and rhinos. The animals were not shy and hiding, hence you will be sure to see them while you travel in the comfort of a tour train. I spent about 10 minutes waiting in a long line for the train, but because the train has a huge capacity and good frequency, the wait was very manageable! This 40 minutes safari tour is included with the entrance ticket, making it fully worthwhile especially if you enjoy getting close to the animals or even smell their poop 💩!
Besides that highlight, of course there’s also walking trails, but to be absolutely honest, the only trail I found interesting was that of the ‘Big Cats’ and the Lions really got me fascinated. The other trails were disappearing because the animals were likely hiding when I went in winter, or they were too far in their enclosures for me to really see much.
Nonetheless, the safari tour more than made up for everything, and this is really a place not to be missed if you are thinking of not travelling too far out while visiting Melbs. Only 30 minutes drive away! 🚗
If you're planning a family trip to Melbourne and want a unique wildlife experience, the Werribee Open Range Zoo is an excellent choice just a short 30-minute drive from the city center. This safari-style zoo offers an immersive experience where you can observe free-roaming animals such as giraffes, zebras, antelopes, and rhinos in a naturalistic environment. One of the highlights is the safari train tour, which runs frequently and has a large capacity, making the roughly 10-minute wait manageable. The 40-minute ride allows visitors to comfortably see animals up close and even catch the authentic sights and smells of the open range environment, adding to the memorable experience. During the winter months, some animals might be less visible on walking trails, but the Big Cats area, featuring lions, remains a captivating stop. This adds diversity to your visit beyond the safari ride. The zoo’s signage and layout help guide guests through various habitats, ensuring a rich educational and entertaining visit. Admission tickets include the train safari, making it great value for families, especially those with children or older kids who will enjoy spotting and learning about exotic animals. The zoo's focus on maintaining an open, safe environment for the animals means they don't shy away from visitors, increasing your chances of great wildlife sightings. Overall, Werribee Open Range Zoo is an accessible, fascinating destination that balances the excitement of a safari with educational walking trails. Don’t miss this engaging place to connect with nature while visiting Melbourne.
